Potain MCT 385 Cranes Support Construction of World's Longest-Span Road-Rail Bridge

Why It Matters

The project showcases how advanced tower‑crane technology can accelerate megaproject timelines and lower costs, reinforcing China’s push to expand its high‑speed rail network and set new benchmarks in hybrid road‑rail infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

• Potain MCT 385 cranes lift up to 22 tons, aiding massive bridge spans
• Cranes reduce structural ties, cutting construction time and cost
• Bridge will feature 2,185‑ft main span, longest road‑rail cable‑stayed bridge
• Updated MCT 385A L20 offers 246‑ft jib for precise high‑rise lifts
• Project supports China’s “Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal” high‑speed rail network

Pulse Analysis

The Zhoushan Taoyaomen Bridge, slated for completion in August 2026, will span 2,185 feet between Fuchi and Cezi Islands, making it the world’s longest‑span road‑rail cable‑stayed bridge. As a key link in the Ningbo‑Zhoushan segment of China’s ambitious “Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal” high‑speed rail network, the structure must accommodate both vehicular traffic and high‑speed trains while withstanding a harsh marine environment. Its hybrid‑girder design pushes the limits of conventional bridge engineering, demanding precise, high‑capacity lifting solutions to erect the towering pylons and deck sections.

Manitowoc’s Potain MCT 385 topless tower crane was chosen for precisely that reason. With a maximum lift capacity of 22 tons and a 246‑foot jib capable of handling 3.74 tons at full extension, the crane delivers the stability and control required for the bridge’s massive steel components. The topless configuration eliminates the need for a traditional top‑ring, reducing the number of structural ties and streamlining on‑site assembly. The newer MCT 385A L20 model adds enhanced hydraulics and remote monitoring, further improving safety and productivity in the constrained, high‑rise work zone.

The deployment of the MCT 385 series underscores a broader shift toward specialized, high‑performance tower cranes in megaprojects worldwide. By cutting erection time and lowering material waste, such equipment directly impacts project economics, a critical factor as governments and developers chase tighter schedules and tighter budgets. Moreover, Potain’s extensive service network in China, backed by three decades of local production, provides rapid parts, training, and maintenance, reinforcing confidence in long‑term reliability. As more infrastructure corridors demand hybrid road‑rail solutions, the demand for adaptable, cost‑effective lifting platforms is likely to accelerate.