Potain introduces the new MDT 489 topless crane

Manitowoc has introduced the new Potain MDT 489 topless crane, which is designed to deliver easy transportation as well as quick setup times. 

The new Potain MDT 489 topless crane fills the gap between the MDT 389 and new MDT 569 models, and is ideal for large-scale construction and infrastructure projects, particularly the installation of large, prefabricated components, as well as for shipyards and mines with heavy loads to handle.

The MDT 489 delivers a high capacity with a maximum load of 20 tonnes to 25 tonnes, and an 80-metre jib for broad coverage and reach on the job site.

The new topless crane also delivers the cost-saving benefits of easy transport and quick assembly and disassembly. 

The topless crane’s compact crane configuration enables it to operate on tight and congested job sites. The MDT 489 is designed for high performance, while keeping the concept of using topless technologies that overlap and avoid collisions on job sites with multiple cranes, unlike hammerhead tower crane models.

Compact transport

All of the crane’s components, except for the slewing mechanism, can be transported in standard-sized shipping containers.

The rotating section of the MDT 489 can be transported in just nine containers. This is four or five less containers than required for a typical crane of comparable size, decreasing transport cost and complexity, as well as making access to the job site simpler. Protective packaging with brackets helps secure the jib sections and cushioning pads within the containers protect the sections while facilitating efficient packing.

Quick assembly speed 

When the MDT 489 arrives at a job site, it is twice as quick to assemble as other cranes of a similar size, according to the manufacturer. With an 80-metre jib and 50 metre mast, assembly takes a maximum of two days and requires minimal space.

The MDT 489 can be placed on a 6 metre or 8 metre cross base platform and assembled in various configurations to suit the space and equipment available on the job site. The jib is designed for easy and efficient erection with built-in slinging points. As well, the jib sections can be assembled in different configurations to offer job site flexibility according to the assist crane size and ground space available. The heaviest jib section weighs only 6.7 tonnes. The rotating cab and thoughtful design of the counter-jib connection points also make for easy mounting.

Using Manitowoc’s Crane Control System (CCS), the MDT 489 can be set up in as little as 15 minutes. As well, this feature promotes highly controlled and efficient operation throughout the crane’s time on the job site. 

The trolley offers two falls for fast duty-cycle lifting or four falls for heavy lifting. The wire ropes for the trolley can be tensioned and then the sensor recalibrated simply by using a push-button inside the operator cab. This is ideal for long-term job sites that require more frequent tensioning.

Once the MDT 489 has completed its work on the job site, it can be quickly and easily disassembled, ready to make way for other cranes or move on to its next job.

The topless crane is also available with the option of the new high-performance 110 HPL winch or the 150 HPL. The 132 HPL and 180 HPL are available for the North American market. 

Productivity is increased with the new 110 HPL winch, as lifting speeds are up to twice that of the older 100 LVF winch. This feature, in combination with new motor brake management and a new architecture that facilitates maintenance operations, means the 110 HPL winch increases construction time, improves overall driving comfort and provides more precise load placement.

Furthermore, these performance improvements do not increase power consumption, and maintenance is easier. With the Power Control function, it is possible to limit the maximum electric power required for the crane operation without impacting low-load and no-load working speeds. 

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Like all Potain CCS cranes, the MDT 489 is equipped with the CraneSTAR Diag solution. Potain’s remote diagnostic tool allows the customer to consult the machine’s activity in real time. Thanks to the forecasting of maintenance operations and advanced diagnostic assistance, the customer optimizes the availability of its cranes and the return on investment.

The recovery of operating data allows the measurement of the crane utilization and load rates in order to optimize productivity and operational efficiency on construction sites.  

The Potain MDT 489 topless crane has the most highly optimized assembly and disassembly process for a crane in the 450-tonne category and helps to save costs, while enjoying the benefits of a high-capacity crane. 

It combines the capacity necessary for large construction projects with a compact crane configuration for the tightest and most congested jobsites, enabling contractors to access more sites and complete the job efficiently and profitably.