For work on this prestigious project, contractor Larsen & Toubro (L&T) needed cranes with the capacity and reach to meet the stringent project specifications, while also being compact enough to work in the limited space available. For this task, L&T selected three Potain MR 295 H20 mid-size luffing jib cranes and an MC 205 B top-slewing crane.
The cranes have been on site since September 2015, lifting rebar, concrete and steel, and also assembling the bronze fixtures that will form the outer cladding of the statue. This heavy and distinctive cladding is intentionally symbolic given Sardar Patel was known as the ‘Ironman of India’.
Designed to work in confined spaces, the MR 295 H20 has a maximum capacity of 20t and can lift up to 2.7t at its 60m jib end. The MC 205 B has a maximum capacity of 10t and can lift up to 2.4t at its 60m jib end. On the Statue of Unity project, the MR 295 H20 units have been fitted with 50m of jib, while the MC 205 B is working with 60m of jib.
The foundation, main structure and bridge connecting the statue to the main road are already complete. Some 5,600t of structural steel, 66,000t of concrete and 1,900t bronze will be used in the project. Work is expected to complete by October 2018.
