Guizhou Shengyongsheng’s two Potain MCT 385 topless tower cranes are supporting the construction of the Zhoushan Taoyaomen Bridge in China, which is set to become the world’s longest-span road-rail cable-stayed hybrid-girder bridge.
The equipment is being used on a key segment of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Railway, a project within China’s “Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal” high-speed rail network.
China Railway Construction Bridge Engineering Bureau Group (CRBBG) is leading work on the bridge, which is challenged by complex marine conditions and stringent height and load requirements.
The Potain MCT 385 cranes are assisting with the handling of heavy loads and precise movements necessary for the project’s main pylons.
Stakeholders selected these cranes due to their performance in demanding construction environments, where reliable operation is required.
The cranes were installed on site through a straightforward process that helped to lower the project’s construction costs and avoid delays.
Support for the cranes, including parts supply, servicing and training, is delivered through Potain’s Zhangjiagang facility.
The Zhoushan Taoyaomen Bridge is planned to connect Fuchi Island and Cezi Island with a main span of 666m. Pylon construction commenced in January 2025 and final completion is expected by August 2026.
Previously, the MCT 385 crane contributed to infrastructure projects such as the Huajiang Canyon Bridge in China, as well as another bridge project in India.
Manitowoc’s Zhangjiagang facility manufactures the MCT 385, marking it as the first topless crane produced at that location.
The crane delivers a maximum lifting capacity of 20t and allows a load of up to 3.4t at the end of its maximum 75m jib.
Manitowoc China marketing manager Leo Qian said: “On a key project like the Taoyaomen Bridge, crane reliability and efficiency are critical.
“The Potain MCT 385 design aligns well with the project’s requirements, particularly by reducing the number of structural ties and improving efficiency on site.”
