Phase 3 of 6 completed in Dublin project

Phase 3 has been completed in Dublin. A highly specialised and challenging project at a temperature and humidity-controlled warehouse. The primary objective of the project is the systematic removal and replacement of six large pallet cranes, along with their associated top and bottom rails. This ongoing project is critical to maintaining the operational integrity of our client's warehouse, which stores $1.5 billion worth of temperature-sensitive products.

The project posed several significant challenges due to the unique nature of the warehouse.

Maintaining the warehouse's strict temperature and humidity controls was imperative, as any fluctuation could require every pallet to be checked, risking millions of dollars in stock. Therefore, preserving an airtight environment throughout the crane removal process was crucial.

The warehouse floor is 3 metres below the external ground level, requiring a unique approach to the crane removal. To avoid compromising the controlled environment, hmhs opted to cut a hole in the roof and lift the cranes out using a larger external crane, while ensuring an airtight enclosure around the crane during removal.

The planning phase was meticulous, with each step requiring clearance from the client. We collaborated with the client at every stage and held detailed workshops where hmhs explained our thoughts, methods and safety measures.

Due to the height of the cranes (26 metres) and the need to maintain environmental controls, the traditional method of using a scissor lift inside the warehouse wasn't viable. Instead, a 26-metre-high, 120-metre-long scaffold was constructed to access and remove the top rail. A 300-tonne crane was used to lift the internal cranes out through the roof, while a 110-tonne crane assisted by lowering the cranes horizontally onto blocks.

Careful calculations were made to ensure that the external crane could safely support and lift the internal pallet cranes. The stability of the ground where the crane was positioned was also thoroughly assessed.

This project is ongoing, with the remaining cranes scheduled for removal and replacement in subsequent phases.

It demonstrates hmhs's expertise in handling highly specialised and challenging projects. By meticulously planning and implementing innovative solutions, we ensured the integrity of the warehouse environment while successfully progressing through the crane replacement.