Potain cranes build world?s tallest residential tower in India.

Three Potain cranes are at the centre of construction at the 442 m tall World One tower in Mumbai, India ? the tallest residential tower in the world and India?s first mega structure. The luffing jib cranes are contending with searing heat and high wind speeds to lift steel, glass and concrete to ensure the Rs 2,200 crore ($440 million) project is completed on time. Arabian Construction Company and Simplex Infrastructures created a joint venture to complete the project for Lodha Developers, India?s leading real estate developer.

The three MR 160 C cranes were chosen for the project for their efficient climbing ability, compact size and quick assembly process, as Satya Narayan Bhattacharya, Deputy General Manager, Simplex Infrastructures, explains: ?We are using another brand of crane at a neighboring site, and our contractor can clearly see how much quicker the Potains are to erect. The patented pin connection system makes mast assembly quick and efficient. In addition, the Potain self-climbing function and impressive capacity have made these cranes the perfect tools to complete this landmark project.?

Two of the MR 160 Cs were bought from Potain?s dealer in Mumbai, Infinity Solutions, specifically for the project, while the third crane was shipped over from a previous job in Dubai.

The cranes are responsible for lifting 250,000 cu m of concrete, 35,000 t of steel rebar and 40,000 sq m of glass that will make up the World One Tower. To meet the demanding workload of the three-year project, the cranes are working at their maximum capacity of 10 T.

The MR 160 Cs are positioned within the building?s superstructure as internal climbing cranes. They are configured with 40 m jibs and will eventually reach heights of more than 460 m to the summit of the building. As the cranes climb, they will be supported by beams and clamps to ensure maximum stability and safety. Each crane covers a working radius of 40 m. Working at such heights in close proximity to one another requires precise load control.

With safety a major priority at the site, both the operation and accessibility of the cranes were carefully considered. The masts on the Potain luffing jib cranes have a platform every 6 m to allow the operators to rest properly during their climb to the cab. Potain?s reputation for quality was also a key factor in the cranes? selection, as Bhattacharya explains.

?The World One Tower will be a new landmark, not just for Mumbai, but for India. No expense is being spared, and everything is sourced from industry-leading brands ? even Giorgio Armani is personally involved in the interior design. Potain is known for its high-quality machines that keep working safely and efficiently. I am confident that they will help keep this project on schedule.?

The Mumbai climate, with temperatures of up to 38?C and a lengthy rainy season, adds its own challenge to the project. So the cranes are fitted with Potain?s Ultra View cab, which ensures operators are comfortable and have an uninterrupted view of the 17-acre site.

The MR 160 Cs arrived in February 2011, and will remain at the project until the building reaches its final height of 117 stories in 2014.

The World One Tower will be an international symbol of India?s economic growth. The mixed-use development will comprise 300 luxury homes, a high-end club house and spa, an office complex and a sports center. The tower is the first in India to be designed as a Mega Structure, capable of withstanding stronger wind and seismic activity.