Project Description

The installation of a Cheetah Crane within one of Europe’s largest battery manufacturing facilities was a highly technical and logistically complex project. Commissioned by Beck & Pollitzer, this operation required specialist rigging and fleeting expertise, provided by Croft Rigging and Lifting, to safely and efficiently install the crane within a restricted internal environment.

Due to head height limitations and environmental constraints, the chain block method was employed instead of traditional heavy-lifting machinery. This approach minimised the use of petrol/diesel-powered equipment, aligning with the project’s strict sustainability and safety requirements.

Scope of Work: Cheetah Crane Installation

  • 1. Rigging & Fleeting Operations
    • Croft Rigging and Lifting executed the full scope of rigging, fleeting, and controlled positioning of the Cheetah Crane.
    • A strategic lifting and maneuvering plan was developed to address spatial restrictions and ensure precise placement.
    • Chain block lifting was selected as the primary method to facilitate safe and gradual crane installation.
  • 2. Overcoming Environmental & Spatial Constraints
    • The internal factory setting required a strict low-emission approach, minimising the use of fuel-powered lifting equipment.
    • Ceiling height restrictions prevented the use of large cranes, necessitating a manual and mechanical rigging approach.
    • The team conducted real-time risk assessments to adapt to the confined working environment and ensure personnel safety.
  • 3. Compliance & Documentation
    • Full method statements, risk assessments, and lift plans were prepared to align with:
    • LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) 1998
    • CDM (Construction Design and Management) Regulations 2015
    • HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidelines
    • The operation was executed with minimal disruption to factory operations, ensuring adherence to client safety and environmental policies.

Key Achievements & Challenges

✅ Successful installation of the Cheetah Crane within a highly restricted internal environment.
✅ Zero-emission lifting operations, reducing environmental impact and ensuring compliance with sustainability policies.
✅ Precision rigging and fleeting techniques, overcoming spatial constraints and ensuring structural integrity.
✅ Full compliance with safety and lifting regulations, with comprehensive documentation provided.
⚠️ Challenges included restricted headroom, limited access for traditional lifting machinery, and the need for manual rigging solutions, all effectively managed through expert planning and execution.

Conclusion

The installation of the Cheetah Crane at this state-of-the-art battery factory was a testament to Croft Rigging and Lifting’s expertise in executing complex lifting operations within highly controlled environments. By utilising innovative rigging methods and a sustainable, emission-conscious approach, the project was completed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with client and regulatory requirements. This successful installation reinforces Croft Rigging and Lifting plus our clients commitment to precision engineering and sustainable industrial solutions.