What Tools Are Needed for Lifting Large-Size UHPC Curtain Wall Panels? Professional Equipment and Safety Control Solutions

Hoisting large-size UHPC curtain wall panels (typically referring to panels with a single area > 6㎡ or weight > 300kg) requires specialized equipment, combined with scientific hoisting techniques and safety controls, to prevent component damage and safety accidents. Drawing on its experience hoisting a 12㎡ super-large panel at Shanghai Century Plaza, Qinglong analyzes core tool selection and practical solutions.

I. Selection Criteria and Applicable Scenarios for Core Hoisting Equipment

Crane selection must match the component weight and hoisting height. For conventional large-size panels (6-10㎡, 300-500kg), truck cranes are used, with a rated lifting capacity ≥ 25 tons and boom length meeting the hoisting height requirements—for example, Qinglong's Shenzhen Pingshan project used a 25-ton truck crane. For super-large panels (> 10㎡, weight > 500kg), crawler cranes are used, with a lifting capacity ≥ 50 tons and greater stability, suitable for the 12㎡ UHPC panel hoisting at Shanghai Century Plaza. For indoor or confined-space hoisting, tower cranes or electric hoists are used to flexibly adapt to complex environments. Lifting gear should use specialized custom clamps made of stainless steel and equipped with anti-slip rubber pads to avoid damaging the component surface; the clamp load capacity must be at least 2.5 times the component weight to ensure safety redundancy.

II. Configuration and Functions of Auxiliary Hoisting Tools

Tail ropes are used to control component orientation and prevent collisions during hoisting; the tail ropes are made of high-strength nylon with a diameter ≥ 20mm, with 2-4 ropes equipped per component. Lifting beams are used to distribute hoisting stress; the beam length is 0.5m greater than the component width, fabricated from welded structural steel with a protective layer wrapped around the surface. Qinglong used lifting beam hoisting in the Yangshengtang Pharmaceutical project to prevent UHPC panel edges from cracking under load. High-precision positioning requires laser rangefinders and levels to monitor component position in real time, ensuring installation accuracy ≤ ±2mm. Coastal high-wind environments require anemometers; hoisting must stop when the wind force exceeds level 6 to prevent wind loads from affecting stability.

III. Key Hoisting Procedures and Safety Standards

Before hoisting, conduct plan briefings and equipment inspections to confirm that crane performance is intact and lifting gear is secure, and reinforce UHPC panel lifting points by adding reinforcement layers at the lifting point areas. Use "two-point lifting" or "four-point lifting" methods to ensure even load distribution on components; super-large panels require spreader beam hoisting to prevent tilting. During hoisting, lift slowly with the speed controlled within 0.5m/min, set up exclusion zones below, and prohibit personnel access. When a component approaches the installation position, dedicated personnel direct orientation adjustments, using manual hoists for fine positioning to avoid forced collisions. After hoisting, apply temporary fixing first, then permanent fixing once the position is confirmed accurate. Qinglong achieved zero-damage hoisting of large-size hollow-out panels in the Ouargla Hotel project in Algeria using this procedure.

IV. Hoisting Risk Prevention and Emergency Measures

Establish a full-process risk prevention mechanism; perform regular maintenance on hoisting equipment and check lifting gear wear weekly, replacing it immediately if cracks or deformation appear. Avoid hoisting operations in severe weather (heavy rain, strong wind, high temperatures); if construction is truly necessary, protective measures must be taken. Formulate emergency plans and equip backup cranes and lifting gear for timely replacement in case of equipment failure. Hoisting personnel must hold certifications, wear protective equipment such as safety helmets and harnesses, and receive regular safety training. Through strict safety controls, Qinglong has achieved zero safety accidents in hoisting thousands of large-size UHPC panels, providing a practical model for the industry.