08.07.2016

Two Manitowocs for SSLC

Signature on the Saint Lawrence Construction, a joint venture company formed by SNC-Lavalin, ACS Infrastructure and Dragados Canada - has purchased two new Manitowoc MLC650s for the construction of the new Champlain Bridge, which spans the Saint Lawrence River in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

SSLC purchased the 700 tonne MLC650 from local dealer Strongco, and specified it with the extended version of the cranes Variable Position Counterweight - VPC-MAX, this optional extension to the standard variable position counterweight replaces a suspended derrick mast counterweight system and as with the standard counterweight automatically positions itself to maintain the machines weight over the centre of the undercarriage. The crane was also ordered with 104 metres of main boom and the new Manitowoc Crane Control System (CCS) operating system, which is being rolled out across all Manitowoc, Grove and Potain cranes.

The two new cranes are already working on the new bridge and will remain on site throughout the planned 42 month build schedule. The contractor expects the variable counterweight system to save considerable time and expense over that time, by reducing the space and ground preparation required for the heavier lifts.

The cranes are currently lifting 200 tonne steel girders for the bridge’s east approach. Other cranes on sire include a Manitowoc 2250, four Manitowoc 16000s, two 300 tonne Manitowoc M250s, seven 135 tonne Grove RT9150E and two 120 tonne Grove RT9130E-2 Rough Terrains.

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The MLC650 with the old Champlain bridge in the background

SSLC manager Andre Mylocopos said: “The MLC650 has better chart than other cranes in its class for the work envelope defined on this project. We will be able to perform most lifts at less than 90 percent capacity, giving us a comfortable safety margin. The VPC-MAX is instrumental in giving us that headroom without having to drag a ballast wagon behind the crane. We actually eliminated a number of cranes from consideration because they couldn’t meet our needs without a wagon, which is a major constraint due to the limited work area. In Canada, we need cranes that can stand up to the elements. Manitowoc cranes perform well in extremely challenging weather conditions, which makes them ideal for our climate.”

Crane operator Yan Duguay added: “Our operators are enjoying the MLC650’s controls. Compared to other cranes I’ve used, the computer system is easier to operate. That simplicity is crucial on a job site where time and safety are utmost concerns. Since we are only using Manitowoc cranes for the bridge replacement, the uniformity makes the site more productive.”

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The MLC650’s Variable Position Counterweight is expected to be a major advantage on this project

The new Champlain Bridge will be 3.4 kilometres long, with more than 50 million cars, buses and trucks crossing each year. The rapid construction time, involves a much higher prefabricated content than is usual, requiring five temporary docks for incoming modules, and heavier lifts than might be required for a slower build schedule.

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A 3D rendering of the new Champlain Bridge