Maximizing Efficiency on the Job Site
On a large hospital project in State College, Pa., Potain’s MDT 809 M40 tower crane plays a central role in advancing construction. It is specifically designed for high-capacity projects like this one, where both steel beams and precast concrete are being lifted into place.
Bradley Calaman, Regional Business Manager at Potain, stated, “In its 40-ton version, it’s a critical asset on this project. With a 75-meter jib, it can lift just under 21,000 pounds at its tip, making it ideal for heavy loads like the steel and precast being used here.”
As Potain’s largest flat-top crane in the U.S., the MDT 809 M40 is at the forefront of a trend toward higher-capacity cranes in construction.
“We’ve seen a shift this year,” commented Calaman. “Contractors are increasingly looking for cranes that can handle more weight and move materials faster. The MDT 809 meets that demand.”
The flat-top design of the MDT 809 also offers significant advantages, especially in terms of efficiency and flexibility.
“The crane’s flat-top structure simplifies assembly and disassembly, which saves time,” Calaman explained. “It can be put together in a day, and its small footprint makes it ideal for congested job sites. Once erected, it has a 360-degree rotation, covering a wide range without needing to be moved.”
On a project like this, having a crane that can handle heavier loads at extended distances is a game changer.
“In the past, you might have needed two cranes to do the same work,” said Joe Mirabile, Regional Sales Manager for UPERIO USA. “The MDT 809 can handle it alone, which means fewer pieces of equipment, lower costs and faster completion times.”
Safe, user-friendly operation
Safety is always a top priority on any construction site. Hayden Lipsey, a crane operator for UPERIO USA, provided insight into the daily operations and safety benefits of the MDT 809.
“This crane is built to handle significant loads safely,” Lipsey declared. “We’re lifting up to 44,000 pounds, and because of the crane’s capacity, we’re able to operate at much lower percentages — 30% to 40% — of its maximum load. That means the lifts are safer and more efficient compared to using smaller cranes.”
In terms of crane operation, the MDT 809 is user-friendly and consistent with other Manitowoc products.
“The crane uses the Manitowoc Crane Control System, which makes it simple for operators who are already familiar with the operating system to transition between machines,” Mirabile noted. “That consistency across equipment means less training time and fewer errors.”
For Lipsey, operating a crane like the MDT 809 is a rewarding experience.
“It’s a great way to be indoors and outdoors because you have a climate-controlled cab, but you’re very hands-on, and you get to look and see what you’re building, which is nice,” Lipsey commented.
The project in State College is expected to continue for another year, with the MDT 809 providing critical support throughout.
“This crane isn’t just a piece of equipment,” Calaman concluded. “It’s an integral part of the construction process, helping to ensure that everything gets where it needs to be — safely and efficiently.”
