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The Smarter the RIG, The Smarter the RIG,
Crane Manufacturers Are Integrating AI, IoT Technology With the Customer in Mind
the Better the Operator
the Better the Operator
By Lucy Perry CEG CORRESPONDENT
The operator is in the driver’s seat when it comes to today’s construction crane technology. Crane manufacturers want the operational experience to be smooth, safe and practical. That’s why artificial intelligence and smart technology are playing a key role in the design and engineering of the new machines introduced at this year’s ConExpo-Con/AGG in Las Vegas.
“There is a growing focus on modern crane design in terms of ergonomics and safety,” the editorial team at MY-equipment.com said in a recent blog. “The 2026 edition of ConExpo will feature cabins that are both intuitively controlled digitally and comfortable to the operator.”
The equipment dealer site listed touchscreen displays, responsive
joysticks and built-in surveillance as features that enhance operational accuracy.
Anti-collision sensors, load limit sensors and proximity alerts are some of the safety features designed to help minimize risk on the job sites.
“Comfortable operators are more focused and this enhances productivity,” the company said in advance of the equipment show. “The manufacturers prove that safety and efficiency do not have to be opposing each other by considering both performance and human factors.”
Beyond the operator’s comfort, though, manufacturers know contractors are facing pressure to deliver, said smart device developer STW Technic.
continued on page 8
Adobe Stock photo Connectivity, from the machine to the ground as well as to the office, is critical for operators on the job site. They want to know they can safety and precisely lift and place the load on the hook.
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“Another clear takeaway from ConExpo was the growing pressure on contractors to deliver projects faster and more efficiently,” the company blogged.
Larger projects, tighter timelines and increasing expectations for cost control are pushing companies to adopt advanced technology solutions. This trend, it said, is accelerating demand for highperformance control systems to enable automation and advanced operator assistance features.
STW Technic stressed that as machines become more automated and connected, the embedded electronics inside them are becoming mission critical. The smart device maker said machine builders are increasingly integrating functional safety controllers and vision-enabled AI systems.
They’re also incorporating high-accuracy sensors and CANbased communication architectures.
Solutions like these “are foundational building blocks for nextgeneration equipment,” said the company.
“These systems allow OEMs to create machines that can reliably operate in harsh environments such as construction.”
Rigs Getting Smarter By the Minute
At ConExpo this year, Manitowoc emphasized its customercentric focus. Key is the company’s Connect, a digital service platform launched in 2022.
Real-time remote diagnostics, software updates, operational alerts and remote troubleshooting actions are offered through the platform, said Manitowoc.
With 4G or Wi-Fi connectivity, Connect offers Manitowoc crane owners support, reducing site visits, minimizing downtime and increasing machine value.
Liebherr highlighted advanced assistance systems, transportoptimized designs and digital services for planning, dispatching, and day-to-day operations.
Unveiling new models at ConExpo this year, the manufacturer emphasized its “mature digital solutions” integrated in both mobile and tower cranes.
One Liebherr self-erecting crane displayed is designed with intelligent assistance systems enhancing precision, efficiency and safety in material handling.
Tadano Cranes showcased its AI-powered assistant heyTADANO offering 24/7 access to official Tadano knowledge. The platform is designed to give customers faster answers on the job site or in the office.
Tadano’s Advanced Technology Research Center demonstrated futuristic safety systems and intelligent assistance technologies shaping next-gen models.
The manufacturer also featured digital tools and intelligent serv-
ices that support planning, operation, monitoring and fleet efficiency.
SANY displayed two crawlers. One is a lattice-boom model equipped with smart windshield automatically adjusting tint based on sunlight. The other machine, a telescopic crawler, features a 360-degree surround-view monitoring system for safer lifting operations.
The crane manufacturer also promoted its AI service assistant, offering intelligent diagnostics, interactive fault identification and quick parts identification.
Finally, SANY showcased its RootPilot, high-precision 3D guidance for smarter, faster and more efficient construction.
MY-equipment’s team noted that digitalization and smart technology are front and center in crane designs. Telematics, automation and remote operations are of great interest to crane buyers these days.
“Customers have become significantly interested in data-driven performance information instead of lifting capacity,” said the company. “Smart features enable operators and fleet managers to have real-time information about the fuel consumption, engine health and lifting cycles.”
Advanced software assists in preventive maintenance, minimizes downtimes and keeps projects on track.
“With the growth of digital solutions in the industry, smart cranes will be a common tool and not a premium addition,” the company said.
Construction equipment marketplace Plant and Equipment (P&E) blogged last year that the construction industry is undergoing “a seismic shift” due to AI.
Construction cranes are among the most advanced equipment in terms of AI’s and IoT’s “revolutionizing how these massive machines operate.”
P&E believes AI is ultimately reducing the crane downtime contractors experience through enhancements in predictive maintenance.
“One of the most significant challenges in crane operations is unplanned downtime which can lead to costly delays and safety risks,” it said. “Traditional maintenance schedules often rely on fixed intervals or reactive repairs, which can be inefficient. Enter AI-driven predictive maintenance.”
By analyzing data from sensors embedded in cranes, AI algorithms can predict when a component is likely to fail, it explained.
Operators can now address issues before they escalate, minimizing downtime and extending the lifespan of the equipment.
Making big strides in tracking and optimizing crane performance is the integration of IoT in cranes, said P&E.
Sensors enabled with IoT now collect real-time data on various parameters, such as load weight, wind speed, temperature and operational hours. A central system receives the transmitted data and analyzes it via AI algorithms, providing contractors with insight into rig performance.
A contractor also can use the data to improve workflows by pinpointing the most efficient lifting paths or scheduling work during best weather conditions.
“By combining IoT in cranes with AI, businesses can achieve a higher level of heavy equipment fleet management,” said P&E. “Fleet managers can track multiple cranes simultaneously, monitor fuel consumption and even automate reporting for compliance and auditing purposes.”
This level of connectivity and intelligence, said the company, is transforming construction sites, making their operations safer and more productive.
“Efficiency is the cornerstone of any successful construction project, and AI is playing a pivotal role in enhancing crane operations,” it continued.
STW Technic believes one of the most exciting themes at ConExpo was the emergence of the fully connected job site.
“Construction equipment is becoming part of a larger digital
Adobe Stock photo
Crane manufacturers are integrating AI and IoT platforms into new models in a drive to meet customers’ needs for jobsite safety, efficiency and longer machine life.
ecosystem where machines, sensors and software platforms exchange data in real time.”
This enables predictive maintenance, fleet optimization, remote monitoring and diagnostics and real-time jobsite analytics.
Connected machines can feed data into digital dashboards and analytics platforms to improve decision-making and reduce downtime.
It’s “precisely the kind of rugged automation hardware that powers modern off-highway equipment,” the company said.
With automated lifting systems powered by AI, operators can complete tasks with precision and speed and reduce the need for manual intervention.
That’s because advanced algorithms can calculate the optimal lifting path, avoid obstacles and ensure smooth load placement, said P&E.
“AI also enhances efficiency by enabling construction automation,” it stressed. “Moreover, AI-driven analytics can identify patterns in crane usage.”
These patterns help crane owners optimize their operations, which it said is invaluable for businesses looking to maximize their return on investment.
The company believes the future of crane operations is brimming with possibilities because of advancements in AI and IoT.
P&E predicts that fully autonomous cranes that can operate without human intervention are on the horizon.
“These cranes will use AI to navigate complex environments and perform tasks with unparalleled precision.”
STW Technic also believes this and said that automation is transitioning from concept to production now.
“Automation is no longer just a research topic or demo-stage innovation,” said the company about AI tech nology at the ConExpo show in Las Vegas. “Across the show floor, autonomous and semi-autonomous machine systems were presented as production-ready solutions.”
operators can focus on higher-value activities.
OEMs are building machines capable of supporting automation stacks of rugged controllers, reliable sensors and high-performance computer platforms.
These solutions are designed specifically to increase productivity and address ongoing labor shortages in construction, said the company.
Endless Possibilities With the Right Combination
STW Technic’s biggest takeaway from ConExpo 2026 is that construction machines are evolving into intelligent platforms.
The equipment of the future will combine automation, AI, connectivity advanced sensing and electrification, predicted the company.
“These technologies are transforming heavy equipment … into highly intelligent machines that can perceive, analyze and act on their environment.”
Advanced machine control, perception systems and intelligent software are enabling machines to handle repetitive or dangerous tasks. With these critical tasks delegated to technology, crane
AI will continue to improve safety by integrating with advanced technologies like computer vision and drones, said P&E.
Algorithms produced by the technology will optimize energy consumption, making cranes more environmentally friendly.
“This is particularly important as the industry moves toward sustainable practices,” said P&E.
The company believes that as cranes construct and maintain smart buildings, bridges and transportation systems, AI will enable them to adapt to project demands.
“The integration of AI in cranes is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s transforming the construction and heavy equipment industries,” said P&E. “By embracing these advancements, companies can stay ahead of the curve and build a smarter, more sustainable future.” CQ
Adobe Stock photo
Touchscreen displays, responsive joysticks and builtin surveillance enhance the operator’s experience, while anti-collision sensors, load limit sensors and proximity alerts help minimize risk on the job site.
MOUNTAINOUS CHALLENGE
FLEXIBLE LIEBHERR CRANE TACKLES TOUGH TERRAIN
In the municipality of Riva Valdobbia, at the gateway to Alagna Valsesia, construction works on the Cascata D’Otro Mountain Lodge were completed as planned. The project is regarded as one of the most forward-looking tourism developments in the region, expanding the local accommodation offering with a modern, high-end complex designed for both short stays and longer visits. The crane was in operation on site from May to November 2025.
Flexible Crane Technology for Demanding Terrain
The construction site was located in a narrow mountain valley characterized by winding access roads, limited storage areas and restricted maneuvering space. These conditions placed high demands on logistics and crane selection throughout the project. The Liebherr 81 K.1 proved well suited due to its compact transport dimensions, reduced footprint and rapid assembly process.
Mountain terrain with natural slopes required a crane capable of adjusting hook height and jib length quickly and precisely. The finely graduated hook heights and variable jib configurations of the 81 K.1
allowed the crane to be adapted exactly to the evolving requirements of the site, ensuring stability even on uneven ground.
A key factor in selecting the crane was the need for rapid and straightforward assembly. “The crane’s exceptional flexibility makes our work significantly easier,” said Andrea Fiorenza, site manager of Bertini Costruzioni. “Particularly on a project with many logistical challenges, it is a real advantage to rely on technology that adapts quickly and reliably.”
Contributing to Comfort, Sustainability in the Alps
Working at altitude meant dealing with highly variable weather conditions, including changing wind patterns, low temperatures and the risk of early snowfall. Throughout the construction phase, the Liebherr 81 K.1 demonstrated performance under these conditions, enabling lifting operations and consistent progress on site.
The high level of control and smooth handling supported the careful placement of materials, an essential factor in the construction of a high-end lodge where accuracy and build quality are paramount. Even in hard-to-reach areas and confined spaces,
the crane enabled safe, controlled and efficient lifting operations.
Tourism Project With Lasting Regional Impact
Located in a renowned alpine destination known for off-piste skiing and yearround mountain tourism, the Cascata D’Otro Mountain Lodge represents a strategic investment in the sustainable development of the Alagna Valsesia area. The completed complex combines independent apartments, including accessible units, with the services and amenities of a high-quality residence, such as a reception area, restaurant, bar and carefully designed communal spaces.
The architectural concept focused on low visual impact and close integration with the surrounding natural environment. Limited mobility on site and a controlled development approach supported a responsible tourism model that respects the landscape while enhancing the region’s attractiveness. The lodge is set to make a lasting contribution to the valley’s tourism infrastructure.
For more information, visit liebherr.com/.
“The crane’s exceptional flexibility makes our work significantly easier. Particularly on a project with many logistical challenges, it is a real advantage to rely on technology that adapts quickly and reliably.”
Andrea Fiorenza Bertini Costruzioni
Liebherr 81 K building the new mountain lodge in Piedmont. ALL Crane photo
ALLHall at the ALL
ALL called upon its fleet of Liebherr all-terrain cranes (ATs), in capacities of 360, 550 and 900 tons, to make the necessary lifts.
Heavy Metal Cranes Essential to RRHOF Expansion
Heavy metal was well-represented at Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum as structural steel was set for the facility’s 50,000-sq.-ft. expansion.
Although rock music has a raucous, spontaneous reputation, the planning and execution of the project was a study in precision. However, a moment of improvisation at the very start of the construction phase paid huge dividends down the line.
“We realized we had to use hydraulic-boom all-terrain cranes for a job that typically screamed for lattice-boom crawlers,” said Brian Meek, project manager for ALL Erection & Crane Rental, flagship branch of the ALL Family of Companies.
Crawlers are the go-to for steel erection in normal circumstances, because they have the reach and capacity to easily handle the heft and unusual dimensions of steel. They also need a lot of room for assembly before any work can begin, and there was simply no space at the Rock Hall’s lakefront location.
“We were hemmed-in by Lake Erie to the north, a busy city street to the south and Cleveland’s famed Great Lakes Science Center right next door,” said Meek.
Instead, ALL called upon its fleet of Liebherr all-terrain cranes (ATs), in capacities of 360, 550 and 900 tons, to make the necessary lifts.
“It’s well-documented that there have been extraordinary strides in the capabilities of ATs in the past two decades, with Liebherr at the forefront of much of that innovation,” said Meek. “Having so many Liebherr ATs in our fleet, including the 900-ton Liebherr LTM 1750-9.1, enabled us to deliver the right mix of equipment to execute the lifts and adhere to project timelines.”
Lifting started in spring of 2025, but the planning began back in 2023. The buffer was crucial, as it allowed the steel fabricator to
literally custom-make the steel according to the capacities of the cranes prescribed to perform the lifts.
“We worked closely with Kelley Steel Erectors, our customer, who communicated with Nova Structural Steel to design the steel box beams and other steel material,” said Meek.
Steel was fabricated in a range of sizes and weights from 10,000 lbs. to 60,000 lbs. Sequencing was highly coordinated, so box beams were set first, followed by beams and columns. “The order in which steel was set was important, because we were avoiding instances of a crane becoming ‘trapped’ within the developing structure,” said Meek.
Due to the Rock Hall’s unique floorplan, in which the belowground floor extends well beyond the footprint of the visible building, the construction team had to carefully plan where cranes could set up.
“To support our crane’s outriggers, on the west side of the construction site, Kelley worked with the general contractor to drive pile into the addition’s excavated area,” said Meek. “When setting those outriggers, we had only inches of clearance.”
Consequently, each successive AT setting up on the west side had to use the same spot. (The other crane set-up zone, to the south, was unaffected because the crane could work from the street.) As lift radius, which ranged from 75 to 260 ft., got larger, higher-capacity ATs were used to make the required reach. The three main cranes used were Liebherr LTM 1300-6.3, Liebherr LTM 1450-8.1, and the aforementioned 1750. Only the 1450 was configured without luffing jib.
“Although ATs aren’t typical for steel erection, this job shows that, when deployed correctly, they can be highly effective in the right environment,” said Meek. He added that the ALL team used the site’s tight footprint to refine assembly methods and sequencing. “Working within those constraints, our crew achieved exceptional efficiency — gains we’re now carrying forward to future projects.”
For more information, visit allcrane.com.
ALL Crane photo
STEPHENSON EQUIPMENT, INC.
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UNVEILS MOBILE CRANE TRAINING CENTER
A STRONG COMMITMENT TO TRAINING is the cornerstone of any successful crane operation, and Manitowoc is empowering dealers to strengthen their programs with its new Mobile Training & Technology Center.
This mobile classroom was unveiled at ConExpo-Con/AGG in Las Vegas. It offers a fully equipped on-site training classroom, packaged in a transportable module, enabling North American dealers to advance workforce development by streamlining technician upskilling.
“Well-run training programs help companies maximize their return on invested capital, ensuring cranes run at their optimum level and handle more work,” said Andy Coy, global training manager of Manitowoc. “With the Mobile Training & Technology Center, we can go to the student, rather than the student coming to us. Manitowoc is the only manufacturer offering this service in North America, and it’s a reflection of our commitment to aftermarket support.”
The Mobile Training & Technology Center travels on a 53 ft. step-deck trailer and is deployed on-site via hydraulic jacks. It’s a spacious facility, measuring 43 ft. by 25 ft., and can be set up in just four hours. The Wi-Fi-enabled Training Center is packed with multimedia, including two TVs and a SMART Interactive Board. Manitowoc provides the instructors to host training sessions in the center, with each event tailored to specific needs.
The training courses are entry-level sessions targeted at apprentice technicians or shop-only operatives. Because the center can be housed on-site at dealer locations, it enables technicians to experience Manitowoc training early in their career without the costs of traveling. At the dealer’s location, technicians also benefit from seeing live work around them in a shop environment. And if a specific crane is the focus during the training, there’s a chance to see that model at the dealer’s facility.
The Mobile Training & Technology Center will cover all of
North America and is an economic investment for any dealer with six students or more seeking training. While the center caters to entry-level training for technicians, Manitowoc also offers a full suite of higher-level courses at its purpose-built classrooms in North America in Shady Grove, Pa., and Denver, Co.
For more information, visit manitowoc.com.
The Mobile Training & Technology Center will cover all of North America and is an investment for any dealer with six students or more seeking training.
Manitowoc photo
The Mobile Training & Technology Center travels on a 53-ft. step-deck trailer and is deployed on-site via hydraulic jacks.
Manitowoc photo
Manitowoc photo
The facility measures 43 ft. by 25 ft.
TADANO EXPANDS DISTRIBUTOR NETWORK, IMPROVES SUPPORT
Tadano America is enhancing its distributor network for rough terrain, all terrain, telescopic boom crawler and truck cranes across key United States markets to ensure customers have faster access to equipment, improved parts availability and responsive service support when and where they need it.
As project demands increase and fleets continue to grow, customers rely on dependable local support to keep cranes working and jobs moving forward. Through strategic distributor expansions in Maryland, Delaware, Nebraska and Texas, Tadano is strengthening its ability to deliver the uptime, expertise and partnership that crane owners and users expect.
Stronger Support in Maryland, Delaware
Customers in Maryland and Delaware will now benefit from enhanced local coverage as Select Crane Sales steps into the role of full service, parts and sales distributor.
As a long-standing Tadano partner, Select Crane understands the importance of performance, reliability and minimizing downtime. With expanded access to equipment inventory, responsive parts availability and factorytrained technicians, customers in the region can expect faster response times and dependable support.
From rough terrain and all terrain cranes to telescopic boom crawlers and truck cranes, Maryland and Delaware customers will now have access to Tadano’s full lifting portfolio — backed by a team committed to keeping equipment operating at peak performance.
Dedicated Coverage Now Available in Nebraska
Tadano customers in Nebraska now have dedicated local support as RTL Equipment expands its distribution territory into the state.
With the addition of a facility near Omaha, RTL clients will benefit from improved proximity, faster parts access and hands-on service support. Contractors across Iowa, Minnesota, the Dakotas and now Nebraska will experience streamlined access to Tadano rough terrain, all terrain, telescopic boom crawler and truck cranes.
And this expanded territory ensures Midwest customers will receive the timely equipment deliveries, maintenance support and technical expertise required to stay productive and competitive.
Enhanced Statewide Support in Texas
Texas is the largest crane market in the United States, and delivering strong, consistent support across the state is essential to the success of owners and users.
To better serve crane customers statewide, Tadano America Corporation is expanding its Texas distributor network. CraneWorks Houston joins Scott-Macon as a fullline distributor providing sales, parts and service support across Texas.
Scott-Macon has built longstanding relationships throughout the state, providing product knowledge and support for years. With the addition of CraneWorks Houston, Texas customers will benefit from an expanded service reach, increased parts accessibility and greater equipment availability. This will ensure that the support component keeps pace with growing fleets and demanding project schedules.
Two Texas distributors working together under one Tadano standard will result in stronger coverage, quicker response times and more resources dedicated to Lone Star crane owners and contractors, according to Tadano.
Focused On What Matters Most
Every expansion of Tadano’s distributor network is centered on one goal: helping customers succeed.
By strengthening local partnerships and expanding regional coverage, Tadano is making it easier for crane owners and contractors to access the equipment they need, secure parts quickly and receive expert service from factory-trained professionals. The result is less downtime, faster responses and dependable long-term support — all designed to keep cranes operating and projects moving forward.
As customers take on larger, more complex lifts across the country, Tadano America Corporation remains committed to being more than an equipment supplier. Tadano is focused on safety, performance and delivering the support that crane customers rely on every day.
For more information, visit tadano.com.
(L-R) are Jack Fendrick of Tadano, Anthony Miller, Randy Hoover, Keith Ayers and Mike Evans, all of CraneWorks, Dean Barley of Tadano, Scott Wilson of CraneWorks and Dave Kuhlman and Bob Krause of Tadano.
(L-R) are Bob Krause and Dan Melnyk of Tadano; Steve Barger, Ben Steege, David Kutcher and Devin Bonnstetter, all of RTL Equipment; and Jack Fendrick and Dave Kuhlman of Tadano.
(L-R) are Jack Fendrick of Tadano, Anthony Miller, Randy Hoover, Keith Ayers and Mike Evans, all of CraneWorks, Dean Barley of Tadano, Scott Wilson of CraneWorks and Dave Kuhlman and Bob Krause of Tadano.
Tadano photo
Tadano photo
Tadano photo
Beats the
Cl ck
Florida has remained among the fastest-growing states for years.
A byproduct of its explosive population growth is nearly continuous highway construction, as infrastructure struggles to keep up. This has led to many “spaghetti bowl”-style interchanges — with numerous crisscrossing ramps and exits — throughout the state, such as I-4 and I-275 in Tampa. Locals call it “malfunction junction” due to frequent traffic snarls.
This interchange, which sees an average of 200,000 vehicles per day, had to be completely shut down for an entire weekend to accommodate installation of girders for a new two-lane bridge between southbound I-275 and I-4 east, intended to help ease the area’s notorious congestion.
ALL Crane Rental of Florida, a member of the ALL Family of Companies, provided a 900-ton Liebherr LTM 1750-9.1 all-terrain crane to assist V&M Erectors with the girder lifts.
“The most challenging part of this project was time constraints,” said Cody Johnson, general manager of ALL Crane Rental of Florida. “The crane needed to be assembled and ready to lift by 8 a.m. Saturday, then finished and out of there by 5 a.m. Monday so workday traffic could resume.”
ALL Crane photo ALL Crane Rental of Florida provided a 900-ton Liebherr LTM 1750-9.1 all-terrain crane to assist V&M Erectors with the girder lifts.
ALL Crane Rental Meets Tight Deadline
ALL got clearance to start setting up the crane Friday night at 11. A 10-person crew from ALL was involved in prepping and completing the operation.
To say that the team hit the project deadline is an understatement. ALL was actually finished by 3 p.m. Sunday, a full 14 hours before the hard stop time.
So, how did they do it?
For starters, not everyone even has access to a 900-ton AT, but ALL was able to source one close by at its sister Atlanta branch. ALL also maintains its own trucking arm, so delivering the 18 truckloads needed to assemble the crane was handled in-house.
“We’re not at the mercy of a third-party trucking company’s schedule,” said Johnson.
Once getting the go-ahead Friday night at 11, it took approximately seven hours to assemble the Liebherr LTM-1750.
“To assemble the crane, we had to install the superstructure onto the carrier, install the boom and cube, add 449,700 pounds of counterweight, and add 115 feet of luffing jib to go with 90 feet of main boom,” said Johnson. “Before work could begin, V&M performed ground prep, then we set a combination of timber and steel crane pads, made sure everything was level and finally moved the crane into position.”
The massive AT, piloted by ALL operator Jimmy Giudice, performed a series of dual picks of girders for the new bridge, the longest of which was 142 ft. long (the heaviest, at 227,000 lbs., was 125 ft. long).
“The 125-foot girder was the most challenging,” said Johnson. “We had girders coming in from two different locations, including on a ramp behind us. It all depended on whether other exit ramps in the interchange would hinder the lifting location.”
ALL not only executed efficiently on lift day, it got the job on its schedule faster than normal, as the order was finalized less than a month prior.
“When it became clear to project stakeholders that the site’s parameters dictated using a high-capacity crane, we had the access and the capability to step in quickly,” said Johnson.
This efficiency carried over to the job site, resulting in a project completed well under the allotted time.
For more information, visit allcrane.com.
ALL Crane photo
The massive AT, piloted by ALL operator Jimmy Giudice, performed a series of dual picks of girders for the new bridge, the longest of which was 142 ft. long.
Potain Eases Construction Pain
Potain MDT 389 L16 Powers Construction of New Gaslini Hospital in Genoa, Italy
A Potain MDT 389 L16 tower crane is now operational at the New Gaslini Hospital construction site in Genoa, Italy.
The crane is supporting a transformative health care project set to redefine pediatric treatment and research worldwide. Scheduled for completion in 2030, the facility will centralize services into a modern complex focused on rare conditions affecting children, adolescents and expectant mothers.
The construction efforts are led by CMB, a Potain partner for more than five decades. The project includes 11 floors for diagnostics and intensive care, four for inpatient care and the renovation of existing pavilions to enhance capacity and service quality.
“The initial phase involved demolishing two existing pavilions to make way for the new Padiglione Zero, which will house a significant portion of the hospital’s core activities,” said Andrea Montorio, job site technical director of CMB. “Next, we will build the new technological hub behind the existing buildings. In phase two, we will restore the original hospital structure, including seismic upgrades.”
The MDT 389 L16 was installed with a hook height of 207 ft. and a jib length of 213 ft. offering a maximum lifting capacity of 16 tons.
“Installing the MDT 389 L16 required meticulous logistical planning,” said Sabino Riefoli, Potain key account manager. “With 80 percent of the site occupied by the building under construction, only 20 percent remains available for operations, including machinery and material storage.”
Initially, the crane was to be mounted on a ballast-only foundation measuring 33-by-33 ft. and 6.5 ft. high. However, due to close collaboration between structural engineers and Potain, the crane was successfully installed in a reduced, underground footprint, cutting the original dimensions by half.
The MDT 389 L16 joins a Potain MD 125, also owned by CMB, that has been working on-site since February of 2025. In addition, a Potain MDT 178 is scheduled to be installed inside the building as construction progresses.
Potain’s involvement underscores its commitment to enabling complex, high-impact infrastructure projects in the healthcare sector.
For more information, visit manitowoc.com/potain.
The construction efforts are led by CMB, a Potain partner for more than five decades.
The MDT 389 L16 was installed with a hook height of 207 ft. and a jib length of 213 ft. offering a maximum lifting capacity of 16 tons.
Manitowoc/Potain photo
Manitowoc/Potain photo
Manitowoc/Potain photo
A Potain MDT 389 L16 tower crane is now operational at the New Gaslini Hospital construction site in Genoa, Italy.
Alta Equipment Company
www.altaequipment.com
Byron Center, MI (616) 878-7450
Detroit, MI (313) 394-1811
Livonia, MI (248) 449-6700
New Hudson, MI (248) 356-5200
Parma, MI (517) 816-1368
Traverse City, MI (231) 943-3700
General
Equipment & Supplies
www.genequip.com
Duluth, MN (218) 297-1105
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Nixon-Egli Equipment Co.
www.nixonegli.com
Ontario, CA (909) 930-1822
Tracy, CA (209) 830-8600
Atlantic & Southern Equipment
www.atlanticandsouthern.com
Birmingham, AL (205) 951-6656
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Kelly Tractor Co.
Crane & Foundation Equipment
www.kellytractor.com
Clewiston, FL (863) 983-8177
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Rudd Equipment Company
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Louisville, KY (800) 283-7833
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Link-Belt Construction Equipment Mid-Atlantic
www.link-beltmidatlantic.com
Ashland, VA (800) 552-3837
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Wood’s CRW Corp
www.woodscrw.com
Carlisle, PA (717) 795-0700
Central Square, NY (315) 676-2008
Williston, VT (802) 658-1700
North Oxford, MA (508) 499-1950
wpcrane.com
LINK-BELT CRANES PROMOTES TWO
Link-Belt Cranes announced that Jacob Bandy received promotion to the role of manager of service parts, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Bandy joined Link-Belt as parts marketing supervisor in January 2020 and has supported and led multiple improvements in its service parts business since then. He holds a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with an emphasis in marketing from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
“Link-Belt Parts is a key component of our customer support at Link-Belt, and Jacob is well positioned to carry on the growth and availability of parts our customers have come to expect from the LinkBelt Parts brand,” said Gary Lane, vice president of marketing, sales and customer support.
Link-Belt also announced that Nathan Ramsey has accepted the position of marketing specialist of rough-terrain cranes. Lane made the announcement at the company’s headquarters in Lexington, Ky.
In this role, Ramsey is providing marketing and sales support of rough-terrain products to internal and distributor sales personnel. He holds a mechanical engineering degree from West Virginia University and brings experience from the
energy transmission and automotive industries, where he worked on various engineering projects involving the design of natural gas pipeline equipment and vehicle durability testing.
“Nathan brings a unique work experience and skillset to our marketing team,”
said Kelly Fiechter, product manager of rough-terrain cranes. “I look forward to watching him grow as he takes on the marketing specialist role for the rough terrain crane product line.”
For more information, visit linkbelt.com.
Jacob Bandy Link-Belt Cranes photo
Nathan Ramsey Link-Belt Cranes photo
www.kirby-smith.com
Oklahoma City, OK
405-495-7820
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918-438-1700
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913-850-6300
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314-729-0125
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214-371-7777
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254-261-1370
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806-373-2826
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806-745-2112
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432-333-7000
www.mgxequipment.com
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757-935-4300
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443-399-7100
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336-582-7400
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402-894-9300
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Driven to success
National Crane sets the global standard for truck-mounted hydraulic cranes that are supported by reliable and exceptional customer support. With crane models that offer exceptional reach, many feature the longest boom roadable chassis. Unique technologies that aid in both operation and comfort. or contact your local dealer.
