The Central Artery Project (The Big Dig), under the streets of Boston, crews from Modern Continental and other contractors are using some of the most state-of-the-art construction equipment in the world.

Vital equipment such as modified versions of normal construction vehicles, are unique because of their size or special features. The Big Dig's largest cranes stands tall above the city. The Super Sky Horse crane (shown at right being unloaded), built by American Crane Co., has special attachments allowing it to lift 1000 tons. Modern Continental contacted Western Dynamics to provide an interface with state-of-the-art cranes and drill assembly.

The hydraulic interface had to have provisions for load-sensing, variable control, least amount of intrusion into the crane hydraulic system, small package to be mounted on the crane unit. In addition, the interface must be used with other cranes in the project.

Western Dynamics, Inc designed the total package of load-sensing, variable flow, 3500-psi system. Pictures shows the front panel and the internal components. A small package of 450 lb., the unit was flown to Boston job site for interface with the American Crane unit. Less than one day was required to hook the unit up and start work. Modern Continental stated it was a dream come true, no problems, on time and works better than expected. Modern Continental expects to use Western Dynamics, Inc on more custom hydraulic system designs in the future.