In the UK, UNIC Cranes Europe helped a client create a sizable mezzanine in a packaging warehouse. Being a specialised provider of lifting solutions, UNIC possessed the technical know-how and cutting-edge cranes needed to assist in addressing the complexities of this particular lifting challenge.
The extremely small setup area, lifting location, permanent structures, and close proximity of the steel beams meant that this project could prove to be challenging after finishing a site survey, risk assessment, and lift plan. Of course, UNIC was more than happy to take this on with their expertise in confined lifting projects.
The largest piece of steelwork for the mezzanine was 9.9 metres long and weighed 301kg, therefore the client first required a crane capable of installing it. The UNIC URW-706 Mini Spider Crane was chosen by UNIC for this project due to its small size and great lifting capabilities. For the rest of the project UNIC brought in the Cube Crane to install the mezzanine’s uprights and cross beams. With its three-section derricking boom, this UNIC crane can access even the most tight and restricted lifting jobs.
The Cube Crane can easily manoeuvre around obstacles on the job site thanks to its multi-positional outriggers. This crane was also made with accessibility in mind. With its outriggers folded down, its width is only 1500 mm, which makes it able to pass through typical double doors and hallways.
Following the 706’s lifting of the steelwork, the Cube Crane was tracked to the lift area using plywood sheets. Additionally, a DPF exhaust filter was installed on both cranes, reducing particulate matter by up to 99.9%+ and maintaining safe air quality in confined places. Working around the numerous beams was particularly difficult because of the possibility of becoming jib bound in the narrow area between each beam, with a maximum radius of 6 metres and a required hook height of 17 metres.
To avoid the crane becoming jib bound, the GGR team methodically positioned every steel beam from top to bottom. The Cube Crane’s three section derricking boom was advantageous as it allowed the operator to manage the load between even the most challenging areas. The boom could be positioned at 85°, 90°, and 95° angles. Because of the radio remote control’s bi-axis joysticks and feedback display, the operator could move with the load while operating for optimal visibility.
