Three Potain cranes deployed for Symbiosis urban regeneration project in Milan, Italy

• Contractor and developer C.M.B. has deployed two Potain MD 208 A tower cranes and a topless MDT 219 for the Symbiosis project in the Ripamonti district of Milan, Italy.

• The project aims to regenerate the area into a high-tech and environmentally sustainable business district with 125,000 m2 of new office space across 10 buildings around a green landscaped square.

• C.M.B. has been a Potain customer since the early 1970s and relies on the brand for its quality, reliability and productivity.

Longstanding Manitowoc customer C.M.B. (Cooperativa Braccianti e Muratori di Carpi) has selected two Potain MD 208 A tower cranes and a topless MDT 219 to support its role in a major regeneration project in Milan, Italy.

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The Symbiosis project, led by Covivio, will transform a decaying industrial area in the south of the city into a new destination for the service sector, close to the prestigious Fondazione Prada and Bocconi University.

125,000 m² of new office space, will overlook a landscaped square with pedestrian paths, trees and ponds, creating a relaxed atmosphere for workers and citizens. It is hoped the project will serve as a model for sustainable urban planning, using the latest technologies to limit building emissions and promote the use of shared electric transport.

The construction of the “D” building began at the site in Ripamonti in February 2020 but was soon interrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first two Potain cranes were installed when construction activities resumed in May and C.M.B. decided to install a third crane a few weeks later to speed up progress. The project is scheduled for completion in October 2021.

Proven Potain productivity

C.M.B. chose the MDT 219 and two MD 208 A cranes for their quality, reliability and productivity on site. The developer and contractor bought its first Potain crane in the early 1970s and has relied on the brand ever since. Out of its 40 cranes, the MD 208 A and MDT 219 models are the most used.

“These are high performance cranes which ensure optimal productivity on the jobsite and they maintain their value which makes them easy to relocate on the market,” said Ivan Catini, who is responsible for central services at C.M.B.

The Potain MD 208 A is a popular model for urban job sites thanks to its 10 t capacity, 62.5 m maximum operating radius, multiple base and hoisting winch options, and Ultra View cab. The Ultra View cab provides excellent visibility from its 9 m2 glass surface, as well as a comfortable environment for the operator, who can easily perform all commands using the joysticks.

Comfort and control

The Potain MDT 219 is also a 10 t capacity crane and features the CCS (Crane Control System), which offers the highest level of comfort, flexibility and ergonomic control, translating to a better return on investment.

The MDT CSS topless concept enables complex multi-crane installation with shortened assembly, erection, transport and even maintenance phases. Crane configuration settings are made via the CCS display directly from the cab in only 15 minutes. Without CCS, it would take three hours.

“The operators’ feedback confirms the efficiency of the CCS system, which limits dynamic effects, automatically adjusts speed and acceleration, optimizes the load curve and enables operators to lift with total control,” said Marco Arena, engineer and Covivio’s jobsite director at C.M.B.

Maintenance made easy

“Potain provides excellent technical service, customized designs for complex sites and rapid aftersales assistance. Potain has already supported us for many years and we hope the brand will continue helping us to stay productive on site for many years to come,” said Igor Soglia, who is responsible for technical services at C.M.B.

Please visit the Manitowoc website for more information about the Potain MD 208 A and MTD 219 top-slewing cranes.