Lifting operations are tricky at best of times, however the limitations imposed by cramped urban spaces and increased building heights pose a conundrum when it comes to crane hire.
The principles of mechanical advantage require that cranes are stable and counterweighted in order to not topple under the weight of the load they are lifting. The practical outcome of this is that most cranes are cumbersome and heavy, offering limited options for accessing confined spaces or awkward setups.
Enter the spider crane. Spider cranes have been designed to provide a solution for lifting jobs in hard to access areas, and their versatility is revolutionising crane hire the world over.
In this article we’ll delve into the complexities of lifting operations in confined spaces and examine how spider crane hire provides a solution to these problems. At Emerson we provide tailored solutions for lifting operations of varying complexity, including challenging jobs in London city centre. Get in touch if you’d like to discuss your project.
What is a Spider Crane?
A spider crane is a compact, versatile lifting machine equipped with a multi-section telescopic boom and outriggers that extend like spider legs, providing stability and support. These cranes are designed to perform lifting operations in areas with limited space and access. They combine the lifting power of larger cranes with the ability to operate in confined and hard-to-reach locations, making them essential for various construction, maintenance and installation projects.
Spider cranes are equipped with advanced control systems, allowing operators to execute precise and safe lifts. They are easy to transport and set up, making them highly efficient for both short-term and long-term projects.
Advantages of Spider Crane Hire for Confined Spaces or Narrow Access Sites
Lifting operations in confined spaces or areas with narrow access present unique challenges that call for highly specialised equipment. Traditional cranes often struggle with manoeuvrability in tight spaces and lack the versatility to work on uneven ground. This is where spider cranes come into play. Designed for maximum flexibility and ease of use in restricted areas, spider cranes are the ideal solution for projects requiring precise lifting in confined environments.
Spider cranes can easily navigate through narrow pathways, doorways and other restricted access points. Their compact design allows them to be deployed in urban settings, inside shopping centres, in sporting arenas and in other areas where traditional cranes simply cannot operate. Furthermore, their versatility in setup and operation makes them indispensable for complex lifting tasks that demand high precision and control.
What Types of Jobs Are Spider Cranes Good For?
Spider cranes excel in various applications, including but not limited to:
- Indoor Construction and Maintenance: Spider cranes can be used in escalator assembly, for lifting HVAC units and for a variety of other operations in shopping centres, sports stadiums and enclosed areas.
- Urban Infrastructure Projects: Spider cranes are perfect for working in congested city environments with narrow streets and restricted access. Their outrigger configuration also suits them to jobs on embankments and on uneven terrain.
- Glass Installation: The precision and control of spider cranes make them suitable for installing large glass panels in high-rise buildings. These lightweight cranes can be lifted from one building level to another by a larger crane, adding versatility.
- Facade Work: These machines are essential for working on building exteriors on projects such as cladding and maintenance. Their outrigger disposition allows them to be positioned close to walls in awkward spaces.
- Roofing Projects: These machines prove ideal for lifting materials to rooftops where space is limited.
- Utilities and Telecommunications: Due to their versatility when it comes to working on rugged terrain, these machines are an effective solution for installing and maintaining utility poles, antennas and other infrastructure.
Spider Crane Models and Their Features
Emerson Crane Hire’s fleet includes a range of Unic spider cranes, each incorporating a host of features that suits them to some of the industry’s most challenging lifting tasks. These models include:
- UNIC URW 376 Spider Crane:
The UNIC URW 376 Spider Crane’s compact dimensions and advanced safety features make it exceptionally useful in urban construction projects. When working in a congested city environment, space is often limited. This crane’s folded dimensions (L 4340 x W 1300 x H 1800mm) allow it to navigate narrow streets and set up in tight spaces, such as between buildings or in confined construction sites.
Additionally, the advanced safety features, including a computer-controlled moment limiter and radio remote control, ensure that the crane can operate safely around obstacles and people. This is particularly advantageous when lifting heavy materials to upper floors of a building without risking damage to the surrounding structures or endangering workers. By combining these compact and safety-focused attributes, the UNIC URW 376 proves to be an indispensable tool for efficient and secure urban construction operations.
- UNIC 295 Spider Crane
The UNIC 295 Spider Crane excels in scenarios requiring precision and manoeuvrability in restricted spaces and is ideal for indoor construction or maintenance tasks. Its compact folded dimensions (L 2690 x W 600 x H 1375mm) allow it to fit through standard doorways and operate in confined areas such as warehouses or small courtyards. This makes it particularly useful for installing HVAC systems or setting up exhibitions where space is limited and access is difficult. Furthermore, the crane’s multiple power options, including electric, ensure it can be used indoors without the concerns associated with exhaust fumes.
These features combined with its smooth, controlled movements enabled by the hydrostatic drive system, allow the UNIC 295 to perform intricate lifting operations with high precision, ensuring both efficiency and safety in environments where space is at a premium.
- URW 706 Spider Crane
The URW 706 Spider Crane is particularly well-suited for large-scale construction projects that require heavy lifting in confined or challenging environments. Its substantial lifting capacity of 6.0 tonnes and maximum working radius of 18.6 metres make it ideal for tasks such as installing large steel beams or heavy machinery on construction sites with limited space. Despite its power, the crane’s compact folded dimensions (L 5610 x W 1600 x H 2185mm) allow it to be transported through narrow access points and set up in tight areas, such as urban construction sites or industrial facilities.
This machine’s advanced safety features, including a computer-controlled movement limiter and intelligent voice warning system, ensure that the crane can operate safely and efficiently, even in complex lifting scenarios. These attributes make the URW 706 an invaluable asset for managing heavy-duty lifting tasks in environments where space and safety are critical considerations.
Speak to Us for Spider Crane Hire Throughout London
If you need reliable and efficient lifting solutions in confined spaces or areas with narrow access, spider cranes are the perfect choice. Our range of Unic spider cranes, including the UNIC URW 376, UNIC 295 and URW 706, are available for hire throughout London. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in selecting the right crane for your project, ensuring safe and successful lifting operations. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get a competitive quote for spider crane hire in London.
Our team will be able to offer specialist advice on which crane will be best for your project and how to keep your workers safe. Call us today on 020 8548 3900.
