Select has successfully deployed a bespoke lifting frame developed by its engineering team, in collaboration with Terex and Europa Engineering, to facilitate the lifting of an entire tower crane as a single unit at Hinkley Point C.
Developed to improve the efficiency of full tower crane lifting operations, the lifting frame eliminates the need for traditional welded lifting arrangements, providing a safer, more efficient and repeatable solution for complex lifting projects.
The innovative design recently played a key role in the successful relocation of a 140-tonne Select tower crane approximately 165 metres across site at Hinkley Point C. Lifted by Europe's largest land crane, Big Carl, the operation supported the next phase of construction works and demonstrated the effectiveness of the new lifting solution.
Designed to attach directly to the underside of the crane's slew ring, the frame is secured using a series of accessible bolted connections, removing the need for any site welding. The installation process can typically be completed in less than two hours and, uniquely, the frame can be fitted using the crane being lifted, eliminating the requirement for additional lifting equipment.
The lifting frame was engineered as a versatile and reusable solution. Through the use of interchangeable adapter plates, it can be utilised across five different models within Select’s fleet, providing a standardised approach to future full crane lifting operations.
Working closely with Terex Tower Cranes, part of Raimondi, Europa Engineering and the wider project team, Select's engineering team developed a lifting solution capable of handling cranes weighing up to 140 tonnes as a single unit. Its capabilities were demonstrated through the successful lifting of a CTL430-24 tower crane.
The recent operation at Hinkley Point C represents the latest successful application of the lifting frame, which has already been used to complete multiple full crane lifts, with further operations planned.
The development of the lifting frame highlights Select's commitment to engineering innovation and continuous improvement. By reducing installation time, eliminating welding requirements and creating a repeatable lifting methodology, the solution delivers significant practical benefits for complex crane operations.
Select would like to thank Raimondi’s Terex TC division, Europa Engineering and the wider project team for their contribution to the successful development and deployment of the lifting frame. This achievement demonstrates the value of collaboration in delivering innovative solutions to industry challenges while supporting the safe and efficient delivery of major infrastructure projects.
