News Release

April 24, 2007

Potain expands MDT line at bauma 2007

The MDT 218 has the latest generation of frequency converter-controlled mechanisms.

High Resolution Photograph

Potain introduced a new MDT topless tower crane at bauma 2007, the MDT 218, and announced plans for a further unit, the MDT 268. Topless cranes have no ‘A-frame’ or ‘cathead’, so cranes can overlap on job sites without having to erect to greater heights.

Francois Czerwinski, Potain’s product manager for top-slewing tower cranes, said the new models in the MDT range reinforced Potain’s leadership in the topless market.

“Potain’s strength in topless technology continues to grow as end users want to save cost and time, while achieving greater efficiency on job sites,” he said. “Potain’s topless cranes are also quicker and easier to erect, even in confined spaces, offering further benefits.”

The MDT 218 is the fourth model in the MDT City line. To meet customer needs, two versions of the new crane are available – an 8 t and a 10 t version. Further flexibility is available as two masts offer under hook heights of either 55.7 m on a 1.6 m mast or 65.2 m on a 2 m mast. Maximum jib is 65 m, while the crane lifts 8 t to 25.7 m or 10 t to 21 m.

The MDT 218 has the latest generation of frequency converter-controlled mechanisms for precise, efficient, and smooth slewing, hoisting, and trolleying. It also offers all the advantages of the MDT City range including a hoist winch on the jib, quick and easy erection and common jib sections.

The MDT line will welcome a new addition next year with the announcement of the MDT 268. It is available in two versions – with either a 10 t or a 12 t maximum capacity. Both have a maximum jib of 65 m and the 12 t machine will lift 2.5 t at its jib end, while the 10 t machine will lift 2.6 t at its jib end.

As with other MDT cranes, the new model’s design promotes quick and easy erection, with a minimum of assembly needed in the air. The profiled jib features quick pin connections found elsewhere in the MDT City line and its 1.2 m width makes it easy to transport. The crane also features a distinctive counterjib design, which can fold for greater efficiency in transportation. The hoist unit is mounted on a platform at the rear of the turntable and offers easy access during erection and service. Simple plug-in attachments connect all electrical and safety connections.

All mechanisms are easy to access, allowing faster erection and easier service. The crane features a range of LVF Optima hoist choices and the efficient RVF Optima+ slewing mechanism for better productivity tuned to any customer requirements. Parts commonality among the cranes in the MDT range helps keep inventory and manufacturing costs as low as possible.

Global DesignationMaximum Capacity (USt)Maximum jib (ft)Maximum load at jib nose (USt)
MDT 2188.8 USt/11 USt213 ft1.6 USt
MDT 26811 USt/13.2 USt213 ft2.9 USt/2.8 USt

About The Manitowoc Company
The Manitowoc Company, Inc. is one of the world's largest providers of lifting equipment for the global construction industry, including lattice-boom cranes,tower cranes, mobile telescopic cranes, and boom trucks. As a leading manufacturer of ice-cube machines, ice/beverage dispensers, and commercial refrigeration equipment, the company offers the broadest line of cold-focused equipment for the foodservice industry. In addition, the company is a leading provider of shipbuilding, ship repair, and conversion services for government, military, and commercial customers throughout the U.S. maritime industry.

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For More Information Contact:

Eliza ArnouldBen Shaw
Manitowoc Crane GroupSE10 Creative
+33 472 182 061+44 1892 549609
eliza.arnould@manitowoc.comshaw@se10.com
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