How to Design a Lifting Plan for Large-Scale UHPC Artistic Shapes? Full-Process Design and Safety Assurance

The hoisting of large UHPC art structures (single-piece weight ≥500kg or height ≥3m) is high-risk and highly difficult, requiring a scientific and rigorous hoisting plan that balances precise positioning with safety assurance. Drawing on hoisting experience from large UHPC projects such as the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, Qinglong analyzes the core elements and practical key points of plan design.

I. Preliminary Preparation and Parameter Calculation for Hoisting

Thorough preparation is the foundation of hoisting plan design and ensures data accuracy. Component characteristic calculation: precisely measure the weight, dimensions, and center-of-gravity position of the UHPC structure, and identify hoisting difficulties based on structural complexity (such as double curvature and hollow-out designs); single pieces weighing over 1000kg require dedicated force analysis. In the Shanghai New World project, Qinglong precisely obtained the center-of-gravity coordinates of oversized UHPC components through 3D scanning. Hoisting equipment selection: select equipment according to component weight, hoisting height, and operating radius. Truck cranes are suitable for small to medium components (weight ≤1500kg), while crawler cranes are suitable for oversized and overweight components. The equipment's rated lifting capacity must be ≥1.5 times the hoisting weight to ensure safety redundancy. Site and route planning: test the ground bearing capacity of the hoisting site (≥15t/㎡); soft ground requires steel plates for reinforcement. Plan the hoisting route to avoid obstacles and high-voltage power lines, and reserve sufficient operating space.

II. Core Hoisting Plan Design and Process Optimization

Tailored hoisting process design improves efficiency and safety. Hoisting method selection: flat components use horizontal hoisting; double-curved irregular components use inclined or vertical hoisting; oversized hollow-out structures require special lifting devices to avoid deformation. In the hollow-out component hoisting for the Ouargla Hotel in Algeria, Qinglong adopted custom flexible lifting devices. Lifting point and lifting device design: set lifting points based on the component's center of gravity and force analysis, with the number of lifting points ≥4 to ensure even load distribution; use high-strength steel wire ropes or special lifting devices with a safety factor ≥6, and add protective padding at lifting points to avoid damaging components. Hoisting process planning: establish a complete process of "component lifting → translation → positioning → fixing." For oversized components, use the "dual-crane tandem lifting + tailing" process, controlling lifting speed (≤0.5m/s) to prevent component swinging. In the hoisting of a large UHPC sculpture, Qinglong achieved precise positioning through this process.

III. Hoisting Safety Assurance Measures Design

Comprehensive safety design mitigates hoisting risks. Personnel allocation and training: assign a certified chief hoisting commander, operators, signalmen, and safety officers with clearly defined responsibilities; conduct technical briefings and safety training before hoisting, focusing on emergency plans. Safety protection facilities: set up restricted zones in hoisting areas, equipped with protective nets and warning signs; personnel working at height must wear safety harnesses and helmets; attach tag lines to components to control swing amplitude. Weather and environment control: avoid hoisting in severe weather such as strong winds (wind force ≥6), heavy rain, or dense fog; in hot weather, take heat-prevention measures for personnel and cooling measures for equipment; Qinglong enforces strict weather admission standards for hoisting operations. Equipment inspection and maintenance: comprehensively check equipment performance before hoisting to ensure wire ropes, hooks, and other components are undamaged, and carry out regular maintenance to prevent equipment failure.

IV. Hoisting Acceptance and Emergency Plan Design

Complete acceptance standards and emergency plans ensure foolproof execution. Hoisting precision acceptance: after components are positioned, use 3D laser scanning to check installation position deviation, with 3D coordinate deviation ≤±2mm; surface flatness and curvature must meet design requirements, and lifting devices may only be removed after passing acceptance. Emergency plan formulation: develop emergency response plans for unexpected situations such as equipment failure, component collision, and personnel injury; equip first-aid supplies and backup hoisting equipment, and organize regular emergency drills — Qinglong implements a "one plan, one drill" system for all large hoisting projects. Post-hoisting maintenance planning: promptly clean component surfaces after hoisting, check the connections at joint areas, and repair minor damage caused during hoisting to ensure the UHPC art structure is presented in its entirety.