In the heart of Boston, on Newbury Street, the traditional challenges of urban construction are meeting a modern, electric solution. MAS Building and Bridge, a customer of Shawmut Equipment, is currently navigating a high-stakes steel erection project where every inch of space is a luxury they simply don't have.
“This machine has been very vital to the success of this job just due to the tight proximity of the location that we're at,” says Andrew Gallagher, a foreman with MAS Building and Bridge.
The "machine" in question is the Potain Hup 40-30, a self-erecting crane that is proving to be a game-changer for sites where a standard hydraulic crane would be impossible to utilize.
Overcoming Spatial Constraints
The primary hurdle on Newbury Street is the inability to perform a full 360-degree swing due to the surrounding buildings. To solve this, the team configured the Potain crane with a three-parted jib. This unique setup allows them to:
- Navigate tight spaces: Unload steel in a "single part" configuration to avoid hitting nearby structures.
- Extend reach: Utilize two additional jibs to deliver materials to the far end of the building.
- Increase productivity: Assist various trades, including carpenters, by manipulating and reaching every corner of the project site.
The Power of Electric
Beyond its physical agility, the crane stands out for what it lacks: noise and exhaust. Being fully electric, the Hup 40-30 operates much more quietly than its diesel counterparts—a significant benefit for a busy neighborhood like Back Bay.
The crew also doesn't have to worry about refueling. The crane's radio remote control operates on a two-battery system; while one powers the machine, the other stays in a heated compartment within the cab to maintain its charge. This setup has allowed the team to work through freezing temperatures without any battery failure.
Looking to the Future
While this is one of the first times MAS Building and Bridge has used this specific machine for steel erection, the results are already sparking ideas for the future.
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