UNIC Cranes Europe recently took on an exciting project to install glass roof panels for a Wimbledon tennis club. This installation posed unique challenges, including the 12m height of the skylight and the precision required for each panel. To meet these demands, UNIC Cranes Europe leveraged bespoke lifting equipment and our team’s extensive expertise.
Following a comprehensive site survey, lift plan, and risk assessment, we selected the UNIC URW-506 Mini Spider Crane along with the GL-UMC 600 Glass Manipulator. This robotic attachment, designed to work seamlessly with our UNIC range, has a proven track record in similar projects, giving us confidence in a smooth execution.
Upon arrival at the site, the equipment was carefully unloaded, and the crane was tracked to the designated lift area. The project involved installing twenty glazing units along a 27m section, necessitating multiple repositionings of the 506. To streamline the process, each unit was installed sequentially.
The URW-506 was easily set up on the building’s solid ground, with outrigger mats used to protect the surface. Its compact size and impressive strength allowed it to fit comfortably under the 12m ceiling while lifting the heavy glazing units. With a maximum lifting height of 16m, the 506 efficiently performed the inside-out glazing technique, handling the combined weight of the glass and the GL-UMC 600 with ease.
Given the building’s positioning and the roof’s curved shape, the lift had to be conducted from the inside. This approach enhanced safety and accessibility but required a specialised attachment for accurate placement of the glass. The GL-UMC 600, with its 360˚ continuous rotation, 35˚ slewing ability, and 120˚ tilt, was the perfect solution. Controlled via radio remote, this robot manipulated the glass through each window opening and precisely lowered them for installation.
Thanks to the combined efforts of the UNIC team and the capabilities of the URW-506 and GL-UMC 600, our client successfully installed all twenty glazing units within the projected timeframe. The smooth and precise movements of the GL-UMC 600 ensured safe and efficient control of the glass, while the URW-506 provided the necessary height and strength for the lift.
