Potain in complex manoeuvres

Two Manitowoc Potain HDT 80 self erecting tower cranes are helping build an apartment complex in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

The contractor, Larry R Wagler Construction, chose the cranes for their ease of assembly and ability to operate in limited space, said Manitowoc.

On this job, the cranes are setting walls and trusses for the complex, named The Avenue. It is located in a crowded urban area near the Indiana University campus. A challenge is to ensure oversailing cranes on the compact site are kept safe. One of the cranes is owned by Larry R Wagler, while the other was rented from R H Marlin Crane Rental, both based in Indianapolis.

Potain self erecting cranes do not need a second signal person during operation, saving labour costs, explained the manufacturer. The cab on the Potain HDT 80 travels up the mast and allows the operator to follow the load during the lift. Alternatively, the crane comes with a radio remote control.

"Compared with other material handling options, the reach of self erecting cranes relative to the required space on the ground stands out. The Potain HDT 80 can operate at three different mast heights and has a maximum working radius of 148 foot (45 m), but it has only a 15 x 15 foot (4.6 x 4.6 m) footprint," said a company spokesman.

The electric motor minimises engine and noise emissions, a frequent problem when working in densely populated urban spaces. The HDT 80 also runs on three-phase 480 v power, reducing overall fuel costs.

The Potain HDT 80 has a maximum capacity of 6.6 US tons and a maximum hook height of 176 feet (54 m). The cranes will remain on the jobsite for four months.