CASE STUDIES Ӏ ENERGY SECTOR
at imminent risk of further
uncontrolled collapse. It presented an immediate hazard, requiring safe and controlled dismantling. This project presented a highly complex and inherently high-risk undertaking. Ainscough was entrusted to
carry out this highly specialised and critical dismantling operation. Given the complexity of
transporting heavy lifting equipment from the mainland UK to Northern Ireland the operation demanded precise and comprehensive logistical planning. Ainscough’s Heavy Crane Division, based in Lancashire, brought full operational capability to the site with minimal delay, despite the complexities of distance, cross-border coordination, and potential unforeseen challenges. Cranes utilised for the work included Ainscough’s Liebherr LTM1500-8.1, its Liebherr LR11000, and its Liebherr LTM1130-5.1. Due to bridge weight
restrictions the Liebherr LTM1500- 8.1 crane had to be partially
dismantled to reduce the axle loadings for transporting over the last three miles to site. Over the course of the project more than 100 transport units were required to move the crane components and associated equipment safely and efficiently. The precarious condition of the stack demanded exceptional precision, stringent safety measures, and highly controlled dismantling procedures to mitigate danger to personnel, the powerplant and the surrounding environment. Operational urgency was of the essence given that one stack and section of plant would remain offline until full repairs could be completed. Limited accessibility and the
scarcity of suitable areas for a large-scale crane operations added still more complexity: extensive pre- project planning and groundwork were needed. And operations had to be carefully coordinated around the notoriously harsh Northern Irish winter conditions, particularly high winds and unpredictable weather patterns.
Ainscough’s project team
A Manitowoc
MLC300 places generators at the Byllesby Dam in Minnesota, USA
devised a meticulous and adaptive lift strategy, tailored to the site’s many challenges and evolving conditions. For its strategic crane deployment it mobilised a robust fleet of heavy lifting equipment. The Liebherr LR11000 1,000 tonne capacity crawler crane provided the necessary lifting capability at a 75m radius to respond effectively in the event of further structural collapse. The 500 tonne Liebherr LTM1500-8.1 mobile crane gave safe access to the stack for cutting and dismantling operations using a man basket. Given the limited access this crane was also used to assemble the LR11000. The 130 tonne Liebherr LTM1130- 5.1 mobile crane supported the placement of over 30 7.5x 2.2m heavy duty steel mats and assisted in the latter stages of the Liebherr LR11000 assembly. Rigorous ground preparation was needed. An area of grass and shrubland had to be transformed into an area capable of supporting the loads imposed by all cranes. The client, EPUKI, led the
groundworks which involved the removal of approximately
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