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MULE

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the MULE cost?

This question has no single answer. Each MULE has variable configurations depending on customer needs and jobsite requirements. Configuration variables can include the type of scaffolding attachments or mast attachment options for ground installation, as well as the type of grippers that may be most relevant. Sharing specifics will allow you to obtain a detailed price. Contact Alley-Cassetty for more details.

What is the ROI?

We have customers recognizing up to a 2-3x increase in production! The MULE can reduce insurance premiums, workers compensation claims, and can support 32″ block and other large materials. Other savings beyond labor savings can be realized through reduced injuries and possible lower insurance premiums.

Does the MULE have a warranty?

New MULEs are covered by an 18-month manufacturer warranty for any direct sales.

Do unions generally support using the MULE?

The International Masonry Institute (IMI) is a partnership between the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC). IMI owns a fleet of MULEs that are spread across the U.S. and is actively training members and future members about MULE usage and its benefits.

What size project is the right size project to use the MULE?

A MULE is relevant for any job that requires repetitive lifting of materials. MULEs have been used effectively on elevator shafts, stair towers, SRWs (segmented retaining walls), and commercial facilities. Download the PDF to learn more.

How much does the MULE weigh?

The base MULE is comprised of a core section which includes the arm and power pack. The ML150 weighs 870lbs and the MZ weighs 809lbs. Each additional component or accessory will add weight, depending on your configuration, setup, and needs will dictate the weight.

Component
Weight
5’ mast
200 lbs
2.5’ mast
145 lbs
MCWP Deck Straps
100 lbs
Fork tubes with adapter plate
365 lbs
Ground base
950 lbs
ML150 / ML135
870 lbs
MZ100
809 lbs

What is the reach of the MULEs arm?

The ML150, ML135 and the MZ100 each have a 12’ arm. The MLs have a two-link arm configuration and the MZ00 has a three-link arm configuration. The arms can rotate 360 degrees on all machines providing a 12-foot working radius.

What height can the MULE reach?

The MULE ML and MZ product lines both can free stand up to 20’ using the ground base and mast setup. Both the ML and MZs can work from scaffolding setups or on T. The MZ100 has a 20’ belt and the ML 135 and the ML150 have an 11’ wire rope.

What type of power supply is required to use a MULE?

The ML requires 120V AC power as the base option. It is convenient to plug into house power or generators.
The MZ is lithium ion powered; a full charge takes around 3 hours and can last up to 30 hours between charges. The MZ is charged from 120V AC power and can operate while charging.

What is the lifting potential of a MULE?

Weight capacity includes the gripper plus material. For the MULE ML135 the capacity is 135 pounds, for the ML150 the capacity is 150 pounds, for the MZ100 the capacity is 100 pounds.

What material can a MULE lift?

The standard gripper is designed for CMUs. Multiple grippers are available for the majority of existing materials and applications including foundation block, SRWs (Segmented retaining walls), refractory brick, metal panels, concrete form panels and precast stone. CR can also design custom grippers for new materials and new applications. What are you trying to lift?

Does the MULE have adjustable height?

Yes, MULE is modular with mast sections of various heights. A standard MULE package includes a 5 ft mast section and a 2.5 ft mast section, but some users choose to use extra mast sections to free-stand MULE from the ground. You can add up to 20 ft of the mast before we recommend using wall ties, and up to 44ft total after wall ties.
Additional bases are available such as attachments for MCWP (mast climbing work platforms), JLG scissor lifts, rail systems and much more.

Does a MULE work from A-frame Scaffolding?

Yes, we have contractors that use A-Frame scaffolding that also use MULE. Depending on the project and logistics there are several ways to setup the MULE to work with Frame scaffolding. Please contact us to learn more.

Does the MULE work on mast climber?

Yes! CR offers accessories to attach a MULE directly to the mast climber deck and can also be attached to the mast climber mast. We also work directly with scaffolding companies to develop innovative solutions. EZ Scaffold has a rail system for the MULE that works on their system

Can the MULE be used indoors?

Logistics will dictate the feasibility, including building height clearance, sufficiently wide / tall openings to bring the MULE inside, smooth floor surfaces to allow use of a wheeled cart for moving the MULE as needed.

How do you move a MULE?

Each MULE has multiple pick points for use with a telehandler or forklift, in addition both the MZ and ML have rigging points for slinging the MULE.

How do you transport a MULE between jobs?

Each MULE breaks down into multiple shipping configurations depending on your fleet dimensions / capacity. The ground base serves as its own pallet base. If no ground base is ordered a typical alternative would be a fork base, allowing self-contained transportation.

How long does it take to set up a MULE?

It depends! Do you have the right tools? How big is your job? Seriously, it is hard to give a single answer, but a simple MULE configuration can be set up in as little as 15 minutes with as little as 4 nuts and bolts. A telehandler or forklift is typically required.

What type of training do I need?

Basic operation requires little training for standard operator usage. CR training allows planners and end users to optimize the MULE’s contribution to your process and workflow. Training is helpful to ensure maximum benefit to increase safety and productivity on the jobsite by incorporating best practices.

What kind of attachment does it take to safely use a MULE on a scaffolding?

We have special deck straps designed for MULE to securely mount to mast-climbing work platforms and have approvals from Hydromobile, EZ Manufacturing, Benu, and others. Other contractors have secured the MULE to deck planks on traditional scaffolding or crank-up with a tensioning strap or chain.

Can a MULE be mounted to a buggy for ground use?

Yes, we have a roll-a-round MULE Cart specifically for this application. MULE wheels into place and then outriggers are set.
We also have a JLG TF4000 track base that the MULE can operate from.

Can the MULE be used in traditional pipe-frame staging and move from level to level or does it require a non-stop style of staging with no deck above?

It can be used on pipe-frame scaffolding, but you must be sure that it is secure, safe, and stable. Also make sure that the MULE is free to swing and work the whole wall section without the arm hitting any cross braces (so top level is best).

Can the MULE be moved with a telehandler?

Yes, MULE comes with fork pockets designed for safe, easy picks from the front, back, or either side

What kind of block can a MULE lift?

MULE attachments allow for lifting more than just block. With a wide variety of grippers available, and CR innovating all the time, there is almost nothing a MULE can’t lift! CR’s grippers easily allow MULEs to switch between a wide range of shapes and sizes of stone, block, veneer, form panels, and more. Contact CR Sales to see how we can solve your heavy lifting needs with MULE attachments.

How easy is it to move a MULE?

Using a forklift or a MULE on wheels is the best way to move MULEs easily and quickly. They are equipped with features to facilitate this.

What is the best way to address workforce resistance to using a MULE?

Once workers use a MULE, they realize that there is a physical benefit and the MULE is a great partner to help them get their job done. Try it to believe it.

What sort of regular maintenance issues could we expect to encounter?

Maintenance is minimal since the MULE is outdoor weather rated and built rugged for the job site, however, monthly service preventative maintenance for the ML would include lubricating the wire rope, changing the compressor filter, etc. The MZ and ML should have their air filters cleaned on a regular basis and the gripper cams should be inspected regularly.

What are the maintenance requirements for a MULE?

Maintenance programs will be detailed based on your specific MULE components. Ongoing maintenance is generally minimal and includes some wire rope lubrication and cleaning fan filters. Specific annual maintenance requirements can be completed by your mechanics after they are CR verified or by a CR field representative.

What is the life expectancy of a MULE?

MULEs were launched in 2017. Original MULEs are still in operation with limited maintenance/repair required if service protocols are followed.

What happens if my MULE breaks while on the job?

Construction Robotics offers customer support and will address issues as quickly as possible. Customers can call 844-4-ROBOTIC (844-476-2684).

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