Potain MC vs MDT vs MCT Series: Understanding the Differences and Best Use Cases

Potain manufactures three main tower crane series: MC (top-slewing), MDT (flat-top), and MCT (compact flat-top). Understanding the differences between these series helps construction professionals select the most appropriate crane for their specific project requirements.

Series Overview

Each series represents a different design philosophy and application focus. The MC series features traditional top-slewing designs, while MDT and MCT series utilize flat-top configurations with varying emphasis on capacity and compactness.

MC Series: Top-Slewing Design

The Potain MC series represents traditional top-slewing tower cranes with counter-jibs. These cranes feature the classic tower crane design with the slewing mechanism located at the top of the mast.

MC Series Characteristics

Design Type: Top-slewing with counter-jib
Typical Models: MC 85 B, MC 125, MC 175 B
Capacity Range: 5-8 tons
Jib Length Range: 52-60 meters
Key Features: Proven reliability, excellent stability, precise control

MC Series Advantages

Traditional design with established track record
Excellent stability due to counter-jib configuration
Precise control for detailed lifting operations
Well-suited for longer-duration projects
Familiar maintenance procedures for operators

MC Series Best Use Cases

Medium-sized construction projects
Residential and commercial building construction
Projects requiring consistent, precise lifting operations
Longer-duration projects where reliability is paramount
Sites where traditional crane design is preferred

MDT Series: Flat-Top High-Capacity Design

The Potain MDT series features flat-top tower cranes designed for higher capacity applications. These cranes eliminate the counter-jib, resulting in reduced weight and simplified transport while maintaining high lifting capacities.

MDT Series Characteristics

Design Type: Flat-top without counter-jib
Typical Models: MDT 178, MDT 189, MDT 219 J10, MDT 268 J12
Capacity Range: 8-12 tons
Jib Length Range: 60-75 meters
Key Features: High capacity, extended reach, easier transport

MDT Series Advantages

Higher lifting capacities compared to MC series
Extended jib lengths for larger coverage areas
Reduced weight facilitates easier transport
Faster assembly procedures
Better suited for multiple cranes in close proximity
Improved wind resistance characteristics

MDT Series Best Use Cases

Large commercial buildings and high-rise construction
Infrastructure projects requiring high capacity
Projects needing extended jib reach
Sites requiring multiple cranes
Projects where transport efficiency is important
Heavy-duty construction applications

MCT Series: Compact Flat-Top Design

The Potain MCT series combines flat-top design with compact dimensions, making these cranes ideal for space-constrained construction sites while maintaining the benefits of flat-top configuration.

MCT Series Characteristics

Design Type: Compact flat-top
Typical Models: MCT 88, MCT 135
Capacity Range: 5-6 tons
Jib Length Range: 50-52 meters
Key Features: Compact footprint, quick setup, urban construction focus

MCT Series Advantages

Compact design for space-constrained sites
Quick setup and assembly
Excellent flexibility for urban construction
Flat-top benefits with smaller footprint
Ideal for projects with limited access
Efficient for projects requiring frequent relocation

MCT Series Best Use Cases

Urban construction projects with space limitations
Residential construction in developed areas
Projects requiring quick setup and teardown
Sites with restricted access routes
Medium-capacity lifting requirements
Projects where compact footprint is essential

Direct Comparison Table

Feature	MC Series	MDT Series	MCT Series
Design	Top-slewing	Flat-top	Compact flat-top
Capacity Range	5-8 tons	8-12 tons	5-6 tons
Jib Length	52-60 meters	60-75 meters	50-52 meters
Transport	Standard	Easier (reduced weight)	Easiest (compact)
Assembly	Standard	Faster	Fastest
Best For	Medium projects, reliability	Large projects, high capacity	Urban projects, space constraints

Selection Guidelines

Choose MC Series When:

You need 5-8 tons capacity and 52-60 meters jib length
Project requires proven reliability and stability
Precise control is essential for detailed operations
Project duration is longer-term
Traditional design is preferred or required

Choose MDT Series When:

You need 8-12 tons capacity and 60-75 meters jib length
Project requires high lifting capacity
Extended reach is necessary for large sites
Multiple cranes will operate in close proximity
Transport efficiency is important
Working on large commercial or infrastructure projects

Choose MCT Series When:

You need 5-6 tons capacity and 50-52 meters jib length
Site has space constraints or limited access
Quick setup and teardown are priorities
Working in urban environments
Compact footprint is essential
Project requires frequent crane relocation

Operational Considerations

Beyond capacity and reach, consider operational factors when selecting between series. MC series cranes offer traditional operation familiar to most operators, while MDT and MCT series provide modern flat-top benefits but may require familiarization with different operational characteristics.

Maintenance requirements, spare parts availability, and operator training should also factor into your decision. Each series has established maintenance procedures, but flat-top designs may offer simplified maintenance due to reduced component complexity.

Conclusion

The Potain MC, MDT, and MCT series each serve distinct construction needs. MC series provides reliable top-slewing performance for medium projects, MDT series offers high-capacity flat-top solutions for large projects, and MCT series delivers compact flat-top options for space-constrained sites. Understanding these differences enables construction professionals to select the most appropriate series based on project requirements, site conditions, and operational needs.

Explore our available models: MC series including MC 85 B, MC 125, and MC 175 B; MDT series including MDT 178 and MDT 189; and MCT series including MCT 88 and MCT 135. View all available tower cranes.