Providing lifting solutions for a project in South Wales
Whilst the lifts themselves were straight forward, the
real challenge lay in accessing the job site, located in the stunning Elan Valley.
The Challenge: The client required the support for the construction of a new valve housing at the base of the dam. Access to the works was extremely restricted, with only a steep narrow track available to reach the site. A conventional crane was not a viable option due to the terrain and space constraints.
Our Solution: Following a detailed site visit our team specified the Hitachi TX160 Mini Telescopic Crawler Crane – a compact yet powerful crane perfectly suited to difficult-access environments. It’s tracked undercarriage and telescopic boom gave us the ability to navigate the steep descent safely while proving excellent lifting capacity one in position.
The Results: Once on site the crane completed the required lifts including shuttering – height 6.5m, length 4.2m and total weight of panels per side wall 2.165t with 20% factor of safety.
A Unique Setting: The project wasn’t just technically rewarding – it was visually spectacular. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, our team captured some stunning images of the crane in action, which perfectly showcase the versatility of the fleet.
Cranes Flying High In Yorkshire
The Trans Pennine Route Upgrade is a transformative, multi-billion-pound railway programme that will better connect passengers in the North between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. The electrification of the route and track alignment means that several new bridges and viaducts will need to be constructed along the route. Q Crane Hire were asked to supply several cranes to assist with the construction of these bridges and viaducts.
Q Crane Hire played a key role in the early design stage of the new viaduct, advising engineers on where best to position crawler cranes for maximum lifting efficiency whilst meeting Network Rails strict 75% capacity.
To carry out the works, Q Crane Hire supplied two Kobelco CKE1350 crawler cranes, positioned either side of the Calder and Hebble Navigation. The first crane was configured with a 48.8m main boom and a 30.5m fly, while the second crane operated with a 48.8m main boom.
By working closely with the clients design team and supporting them with their lifting plans, Q Crane Hire ensured that every lift was carried out safely, efficiently and fully complaint with Network Rail standards.
This collaborative approach not only supported the construction of the viaduct piers and abutments but also demonstrated Q Crane Hires ability to deliver safe lifting solutions on complex infrastructure projects.
In Other News: Employee Recognition
Richard now in his senior years at the grand age of 76, still works part-time, two and sometimes three times a week. 25 years of dedication and service.
We thank him for his loyalty and commitment. Richard’s contributions have been instrumental to our success and we sincerely appreciate al he’s done.
He inspires the future generation with his skills and strengths and positively impacts everyone around him.
We’re pretty sure the greenhouse purchased will give him hours of pleasure when not rigging, de-rigging, servicing, repairs and mentoring!
Thank you Richard for your unwavering commitment.
We also offer CPCS Lifting Training Courses
A02 Crawler Crane A61
Appointed Person A62
Crane/Lifting Operations Supervisors A40A
Slinger/Signaller