Autoclave Tandem Pick

Trevor Morgan, Eagle West Crane & Rigging

This was a multi part job that involved two separate trips to offload the autoclave sections. Then a third trip to tandem pick and place the assembled Autoclave onto railway tracks so it could be skated into the building.

Proving the feasibility of this work and showing it could be done safely and efficiently was paramount. We were able to do this by using a number of features found in 3D lift plan.

3D Lift Plan allowed me to recreate the job site and plan each task at hand. I could then confidently quote the work knowing all aspects could be safely completed.

Sharing my 3D lift plan with the customer is a sure fire way to build their confidence in us quickly. It shows a level due diligence that sets us apart from our competition.

It provides everyone involved with the project a great visual reference of what to expect on game day. The 3D lift plan compliments and augments our written safe work procedures perfectly.

There are two main reasons that 3D Lift Plan was beneficial during the planning and execution of this project.

The first main reason was how fast it helped us earn the trust and respect of our client. It allowed us to ‘prove’ we could do the work long before our equipment showed up on site. Our client is incredibly safety focused and 3D Lift Plan allowed us to enhance our written safe work procedure with visual documentation.

For this particular project, understanding our impact to the operations of this facility was critical. We had to show where cranes would be and what needed to be moved to allow access. There were a number of temporary and permanent structures we needed to accommodate as well as heavy machinery actively working on site.

The second main reason 3D lift plan was beneficial, was to confirm the proposed staging/assembly area would still allow for efficient relocation at a later date. We also needed to ensure we could thread the vessel between the cranes then situate it on the tracks with minimal impact to the site operations. Through careful planning we were able to dial this down to two set ups allowing us to complete the work with minimal impact. Considering the length and weight of the autoclave, crane positioning was a crucial factor. On the non-lift side of the vessel there was an active railway and powerlines, so having the cranes closer to each other and pivoting the load 90° before threading the load between the cranes as not an option. However, if the cranes were too far apart, they would be out of capacity during certain movements to accommodate the less aggressive pivoting. This challenge was overcome by using 3D Lift Plan to move the cranes in 2’ increments until the perfect balance was found. Using the snapshot and video feature, I was able to sequence the entire lift step by step, saving snapshots along the way. Once completed, using a screen record program I was able to play back the sequencing as a stop motion video. Providing this level of detailed planning and proof of feasibility to the customer sealed the deal. We now take care of all their lifts, using 3D lift plan for everything. It has helped us forge a deeper and more trusting relationship with a great client.

I find 3D Lift Plan incredibly effective for all types of clients. For those that may not work with cranes all that often, it is a perfect way to show them what to expect on lift day. For clients that are more crane savvy, it showcases our level of due diligence and thoughtful planning for complex projects. It allows the opportunity to collaborate with us more effectively and provides a level of comfort for everyone involved. It serves us internally as well. To responsibly estimate work, you must know you can complete the lifts required. There are often jobs far too complex to simply size a crane and provide a cost. For these projects, 3D lift plan is an impeccable tool that allows us to prove feasibility prior to committing with a quote. The level of confidence I have as a result of using this program shows when I’m reviewing an estimate with my clientele. Another way this program serves us well internally is with our operators. Nothing speaks to the quality of planning and preparation as loudly as execution. Fulfilling our promises as planned, on time, and on budget creates long lasting relationships and a profitable business. Setting our operators up to succeed is by far the most integral aspect of my job. 3D Lift Plans allow me to effectively communicate the who/what/where/how and why with my team. Having a clear directive prior to arriving on site sets the tone for the entire day/project. This level of planning allows the operators to get a clear picture of what is required and prompts them to ask questions prior to arrival on site.

I dabbled in 3D Lift Plan for a few years before deciding to step up my game and attend the boot camp in Florida. Working with their instructor in person was a game changer. I was able to dial in the program and increase the speed and quality of plans I create. In 2021 I created 113 lift plans. I can say with great confidence it has directly and positively impacted the quality of planning and execution of many jobs.