Manitowoc launches the Potain MDT 489 topless crane to fill gap between the MDT 389 and MDT 569 models

All components, save 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. That is four or five fewer than needed for a typical crane of this size, decreasing transport cost and complexity, as well as making access to the jobsite much simpler. Protective packaging with brackets helps secure the jib sections and cushioning pads within the containers protect the sections while facilitating efficient packing.

With a 262 ft (80 m) jib and 164 ft (50 m) mast, assembly takes a maximum of two days and requires very little space. The MDT 489 can be placed on a 19.6 ft (6 m) or 26.2 ft (8 m) cross base platform and assembled in various configurations to best use the space and equipment available on the jobsite. The jib has been designed for easy and efficient erection with built-in slinging points. The jib sections can be assembled in different configurations to offer jobsite flexibility according to the assist crane size and ground space available. The heaviest jib section weighs only 7.39 USt (6,7 t). 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 15 minutes. Moreover, this feature promotes highly controlled and efficient operation throughout the crane’s time on the jobsite. 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 jobsites that require more frequent tensioning. Once the MDT 489 has completed its work on the jobsite, it can be quickly and easily disassembled, ready to make way for other cranes or move on to its next job.

Customers have 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 dramatically 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 speed up construction times, improve overall driving comfort and provide more precise load placement. These performance improvements do not increase power consumption, and maintenance is easier. Additionally, with the Power Control functionality, it is possible to limit the maximum electric power required for the crane operation without impacting low-load and no-load working speeds.

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 in particular 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.