30T Overhead Crane for Nigeria Overhaul Workshop

Equipment overhaul workshops face unique challenges when it comes to handling heavy equipment. One such challenge is installing cranes that meet strict lifting requirements while fitting within limited building spaces. A recent project in Nigeria highlights how careful design and engineering can overcome these obstacles to improve safety and efficiency in heavy-duty operations.

Meeting the Challenge of Limited Space and Heavy Loads

A mining equipment overhaul workshop in Nigeria needed a powerful overhead crane capable of lifting up to 30 tons across a 17-meter span. The crane had to meet A6 duty service standards, which means it needed to handle frequent, heavy lifting without failure. However, the workshop’s ceiling clearance was only 8.5 meters, and the maximum hook height required was 6 meters. These constraints made it difficult to install a conventional crane without sacrificing performance or safety.

The limited headroom meant the crane design had to be compact yet strong enough to support heavy loads. The team needed a solution that would maximize hook height within the tight space and provide precise control during lifting operations.

Choosing a Low-Headroom European-Style Crane

To address the space limitations, the project selected a European-standard double-girder overhead crane with a side-mounted hoist. This design is known for its low headroom profile, which increases the available hook height by about 1.2 meters compared to traditional cranes. This extra height was critical for meeting the 6-meter hook height requirement without raising the building structure.

The double-girder setup also provides greater stability and load capacity, essential for handling 30-ton weights safely. The side-mounted hoist reduces the crane’s overall height, allowing it to fit comfortably within the workshop’s ceiling clearance.

Enhancing Precision with Anti-Sway Control

Heavy loads can swing during lifting, posing safety risks and making precise positioning difficult. To improve control, the crane was equipped with an electronic anti-sway system. This system reduces load sway and allows operators to position heavy equipment with an accuracy of ±5 millimeters.

This level of precision enhances safety by minimizing unexpected movements and reduces the time needed to align loads during maintenance or assembly. The anti-sway control also lowers the risk of damage to equipment and the workshop environment.

Efficient Installation Using Mobile Cranes

Installing a large overhead crane inside a confined workshop requires careful planning. The project team used two 50-ton mobile cranes to lift the main girders simultaneously. This synchronized lifting method ensured the heavy components were placed safely and accurately without risking structural damage or worker injury.

The use of mobile cranes allowed the installation to proceed smoothly despite the limited space and heavy weights involved. This approach reduced downtime and helped the workshop resume operations quickly.

Results That Improve Productivity and Cut Costs

After installation, the crane underwent 72 hours of continuous load testing without any issues. This rigorous testing confirmed the crane’s reliability under heavy-duty conditions.

With the new crane in place, the workshop improved operational efficiency significantly. The client was able to reduce production shifts from two to 1.5 per day. This reduction led to annual electricity savings of approximately 120,000 Nigerian Naira, lowering operating costs while maintaining output.

The precise control and increased hook height also made maintenance tasks faster and safer, contributing to better overall workflow.

Key Takeaways for Heavy-Duty Workshop Projects

This project demonstrates how tailored crane solutions can overcome space and load challenges in mining workshops:

• Low-headroom crane designs can maximize hook height in buildings with limited ceiling clearance.

• Side-mounted hoists reduce crane height without sacrificing lifting capacity.

• Electronic anti-sway systems improve load positioning accuracy and safety.

• Synchronized mobile crane lifts enable safe installation of heavy crane components in confined spaces.

• Careful planning and testing ensure reliable operation and long-term cost savings.

  
  

Mining and heavy equipment workshops facing similar constraints can benefit from these approaches to improve lifting operations and reduce downtime.