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In a testament to sustainability and innovation, Manitowoc's EnCORE program has revived a Potain MD 610 tower crane, previously used in the construction of a bridge over the Panama Canal, into a like-new MD 560 B model now part of Stirnimann’s Swiss rental fleet.
Manitowoc’s EnCORE initiative is known for its ability to refurbish used cranes, not just restoring them to their former glory but often enhancing their features to meet modern market demands. The latest success story involves an 11-year-old Potain MD 610 tower crane, originally deployed by a leading civil engineering firm, now finding a new lease of life under the care of Stirnimann in Switzerland.
Originally sold by Manitowoc in 2012 for the Panama Canal project, the crane endured harsh conditions, impacting its paintwork. However, its structural integrity remained intact, promising many more years of service. Acquired back by Manitowoc's used equipment purchasing department, the crane underwent a comprehensive premium refurbishment at the Charlieu factory in France through the EnCORE program. This refurbishment, completed in just four months, included thorough cleaning, shot-blasting, repainting and overhauling of crucial mechanisms.
Notably, the EnCORE team didn’t stop at refurbishment but also upgraded the crane, replacing the mast pivot to a more ergonomic K-mast pivot and integrating Potain CONNECT, the brand’s telematics solution, for remote monitoring and management. This transformation not only improved functionality but also aligned the crane with modern industry standards.
The refurbished MD 560 B is now actively contributing to construction projects.
"The crane arrived in immaculate condition, and it has been performing flawlessly ever since. We've put it through its paces on a number of demanding projects, and it has handled everything we've thrown at it. The crane is just as powerful and reliable as a new one – you’d never be able to tell the difference,” Adrian Stalder, COO at Stirnimann, said.
