The skyline of Madison is undergoing a transformation, thanks to two Potain tower cranes working on a new 14-storey high-rise project in Madison, Wisconsin, United States.
This development will house 244 residential units and feature a seven-restaurant food hall with patio seating along the lake, a rooftop pool terrace, a Sky Lounge, a high-end chop house, and a three-storey parking garage.
Reynolds Rigging and Crane Service, Inc., a key contractor in this undertaking, selected the Potain cranes for their ability to operate in confined spaces. Situated under an airport flight path and near the Wisconsin State Capitol, the cranes had to be precisely positioned to stay below airspace restrictions while reaching the building’s rooftop. “The topless design of the Potain cranes was crucial,” stated Nathanael Reynolds, Executive Vice President at Reynolds, emphasising the importance of the cranes’ design to fit the project’s unique constraints.
The project employs a Potain MDT 489 M25 crane at its maximum freestanding height of 70.7 metres, equipped with a 60 metre jib, and an MDT 219 J10 crane, which is adjusted for efficient height compatibility. The MDT 489 M25 was erected using a mobile crane, whereas the MDT 219 J10 was assembled piece-by-piece by the MDT 489 M25, which will also disassemble it, thereby optimising costs.
Both cranes are equipped with automatic two-part to four-part trolley systems, allowing operators to switch line parts from the cab to enhance jobsite flexibility and minimise downtime. The taller MDT 489 M25 crane boasts a maximum capacity of 25 tonne with a 80 metre jib, while the MDT 219 J10 has an 10 tonne capacity with a 65 metre jib. For this project, the MDT 489 M25 has been configured with a 60 metre jib, providing an 7.7 tonne capacity at the tip, and the MDT 219 J10 has a 50 metre jib, offering 3.6 tonne at the tip.
In line with green initiatives, the cranes are equipped with power control system technology, ensuring efficient use of electrical power on site. The lightweight and ergonomic design of crane components reduces transportation needs, cutting down the number of trucks required and thereby lowering carbon emissions. Reynolds remarked, “These cranes were a better choice for the environment, supporting a strong and sustainable future.”