What Are the Requirements for Lifting Equipment for Installing Large-Size Double-Curved GRC Panels? A Systematic Solution for High-Altitude Lifting and Precise Positioning

The installation of large-sized double-curved GRC panels places comprehensive demands on lifting equipment far beyond those of conventional curtain walls. The core lies not only in being able to “lift it,” but more in “lifting it steadily and placing it accurately.” As Qinglong Group with 28 years of dedicated experience in the GRC field, we have drawn on hoisting practices from large double-curved projects such as the Wuhan Han Show Theater and the Hainan International Convention and Exhibition Center, and summarized four core requirements for lifting equipment: safety redundancy in lifting capacity, precise control of fine movement, synchronization in multi-crane coordination, and customized adaptation of lifting devices. In the Nanning Wuxiang China Resources MixC One project, we successfully hoisted a double-curved floating panel with a projected area of 15 square meters and a weight of nearly 2 tons, keeping the installation precision error within ±2mm—thanks to a scientifically rigorous lifting and hoisting system.

The calculation of lifting capacity must fully account for dynamic factors. The rated lifting capacity of the equipment should be at least 1.5 times the maximum weight of the component to cope with dynamic loads such as wind and acceleration. For extra-large or irregularly shaped components, dual-crane or even multi-crane tandem lifting is required, in which case cranes with synchronized control systems must be used to ensure even load distribution at each lifting point and prevent the component from twisting. The fine movement capability of lifting equipment is crucial, requiring millimeter-level precision in hoisting, traversing, and slewing to allow fine adjustments during positioning. Qinglong Group often uses tower cranes or all-terrain cranes equipped with variable frequency control systems in its projects.

Customized lifting devices are the key to ensuring safety and precision. Since the center of gravity of a double-curved panel is difficult to judge visually, its exact center of gravity and lifting point positions must be calculated through a BIM model. We designed and manufactured three-dimensionally adjustable steel distribution beams, used in combination with vacuum suction cups or flexible lifting slings. Vacuum suction cups are particularly suitable for double-curved panels with smooth surfaces; their multiple independent zones adapt to the curved surface with uniform suction force and cause no mechanical damage to the panel surface. Before hoisting, a trial lift of no less than 30 minutes at a height of 20cm above the ground must be carried out to observe whether the component remains stable and whether the lifting device shows any abnormalities.

Environmental monitoring and contingency plans during the hoisting process are indispensable. Hoisting must be stopped when the wind speed exceeds force 6 (approximately 10.8m/s). Through full-process BIM simulation, crane positioning and boom slewing paths are planned in advance to avoid collisions with existing structures. Qinglong Group prepares a dedicated plan for each large double-curved panel hoisting operation, verified through expert review, ensuring that every step from equipment selection to final positioning and fixing is safe and reliable.