A top-slewing tower crane is a fixed crane assembled on site and stays for the duration of the project. The slewing mechanism sits at the top of the mast, so the jib, counterjib, and hook all rotate together as a unit above the structure.

They are the standard choice when loads are too heavy for a self-erecting crane, the build is multi-storey, or the site demands sustained lifting performance over a long programme. They work across elevated sites, congested city footprints, and widely spread project layouts.

If the job runs for months rather than weeks and the loads are serious, a top-slewing crane is where to start.

The MCT and MCH models use a horizontal travelling trolley that runs along the jib to move the load in and out. The jib stays fixed in the horizontal position while the trolley does the work.

The MR and MCR models use a luffing jib, where the jib itself raises and lowers to position the load. Because the jib angle changes during operation, the working radius is tighter and the crane takes up significantly less airspace when working near adjacent buildings.

If neighbouring structures or aviation restrictions limit how far your jib can sweep, a luffing jib model is the right answer. On open or elevated sites without those constraints, a trolley jib model will generally give you more productive radius for the same capacity.

Select models in the range feature a compact out-of-service weathervaning radius. When the crane is not working, the jib is free to weathervane in the wind, and a reduced out-of-service radius means the swept area stays tighter around the mast.

On a constrained city site with neighbouring buildings or active streetscapes, that matters. A crane with a large weathervaning arc creates a hazard zone overnight that may require exclusion or monitoring. A compact radius eliminates that problem.

Talk to TRT about which models carry this feature and whether your site layout makes it a deciding factor.

The MCH 125 uses the VVH hydraulic luffing system, which completes full jib travel in two minutes. On a fast-paced site running back-to-back lifts, that turnaround keeps the programme moving rather than waiting on the crane to reposition.

The VVH system also draws less power than a conventional luffing mechanism, which means it can run from a smaller generator than most comparable cranes. On remote sites or long programmes where generation is a daily operating cost, that difference adds up.

It is a focused engineering improvement that shows up in both the daily lift count and the power bill.

The MCH 125 is designed for fast, low-complexity erection. Hydraulic components arrive pre-connected from the factory, with no wire rope installation required on site. The full upper assembly transports in four containers or four trucks.

Fewer steps on site means fewer opportunities for delay and a faster path to first lift. For project managers working against a tight programme start, that compressed erection window is a material advantage.

Download the MCH 125 spec sheet from this page or contact TRT to discuss erection logistics for a specific site.

Across the six models in the range, maximum lift capacity reaches up to 8 tonnes and maximum operating hook radius extends to 52 metres. Tip capacities are 1.15 t on the MCT 88 at 52 m and 2 t on the MCH 125 at 50 m.

Both standard 1.2 m and 1.6 m Potain mast sections are compatible across the range, and climbing options include internal or external systems depending on the build structure.

Jib lengths can be configured to match the reach, capacity, and footprint the project requires. The right starting point is the spec sheet for the model closest to your lift chart. Download them from this page or contact TRT to match a configuration to a specific job.

Potain is part of the Manitowoc group, and TRT has been the authorised Manitowoc and Potain distributor across New Zealand and Australia since 1972. That means the same Manitowoc Crane Care network, parts access, and specialist service teams apply to every Potain top-slewing crane.

Service is delivered through TRT's principal workshops and mobile field teams that travel to site across both countries, with emergency support available around the clock.

For project managers and crane owners, that continuity of support from pre-delivery through to end of asset life is part of what the TRT relationship covers.