Potain MD 235

The Potain MD 235 is a versatile and powerful hammerhead tower crane, designed for applications requiring high lifting capacity and extensive working radius. With a maximum lifting capacity of 10 tonnes and a maximum jib length of 70 meters, the MD 235 is well-suited for large-scale construction sites such as commercial buildings, infrastructure developments, and precast concrete installations.

At its full 70-meter jib, the crane can lift approximately 2.0 to 2.2 tonnes at the tip, depending on specific configuration. Its modular design allows the jib to be shortened in segments down to 30 meters, with increasing tip loads at shorter lengths. For instance, with a 40-meter jib, the tip load increases to over 4.5 tonnes, offering significant flexibility for tight job sites or where maximum tip loads are needed closer to the mast.

The MD 235 crane is compatible with both 1.6-meter and 2-meter mast systems, using standard tower sections like the MD 175 or equivalent. Freestanding heights typically exceed 60 meters depending on the base configuration and foundation design, including cross-base, anchoring on concrete, or chassis-type mobile bases. The crane’s mast system can be adapted with climbing frames such as the B41 or ZD46A to accommodate internal climbing, allowing the crane to rise with the structure as construction progresses.

Mechanically, the MD 235 offers multiple hoisting winch configurations:

• 55 RCS 30D or 70 RCS 30D winches, capable of lifting up to 10 tonnes with rope capacities exceeding 500 meters.
• LVF (Variable Frequency) hoisting drives available for smoother and more efficient lifting operations, particularly at variable loads.
• Typical hoisting speeds range from 20 to over 80 m/min, depending on the winch model and reeving configuration.

Trolleying is handled by a 6 D3 V4 mechanism with variable speeds up to 80 m/min, ensuring swift and precise hook positioning along the jib. Slewing is powered by dual slewing motors—typically the RCV185 or equivalent—providing controlled rotation up to 0.7 rpm. For travelling configurations, the MD 235 uses powered bogies such as the RT 544 series with track gauges from 4.5 to 6 meters and travel speeds between 13 and 27 m/min.

Electrically, the crane operates on a standard 400V 50Hz supply with required power ranging from 80 kVA to over 110 kVA, depending on the hoisting motor setup. Generator operation is supported where mains supply is unavailable.

The counter-jib is modular and adjustable depending on jib length, and counterweights are typically constructed from high-density concrete or steel ballast, strategically placed to ensure structural equilibrium and safety.

The Potain MD 235 is a field-proven model in the mid-to-heavy capacity class of tower cranes. Its wide range of configuration options, strong tip load capacity, and ability to climb internally or operate freestanding make it a preferred choice for urban high-rises and infrastructure works requiring dependable lifting performance and operational flexibility.

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