Complex Crane Rebuild Highlights Creative Solutions
A leading medical manufacturer relied on Riekes for crane inspections and overhead equipment support at their manufacturing facility in northeastern Nebraska. That facility housed an overhead crane that was critical in daily operations. Over time, the crane’s flange became badly worn, which created a serious risk. The flange needed to be replaced immediately to stay safe and compliant, which means the crane needed to be replaced.
INITIAL CHALLENGE
Replacing the crane wasn't as simple as ordering a new one and swapping it in. The facility’s ceiling height and internal layout created major restrictions. The existing crane couldn’t be removed through a typical overhead route because there wasn’t enough vertical clearance and there was no loading dock or large door that allowed equipment sections to pass through. The only option was to lower the old crane carefully, break it down inside the building and remove every single piece, right down to the bridge beam, through a standard-sized human door. That meant the new crane had to go in the same way – in parts, hand-delivered and assembled on-site within the limited space.
OUR SOLUTION
A plan defining each step was developed to avoid disrupting operations in nearby areas and to ensure every move met OSHA safety requirements. Riekes took on the challenge with a coordinated team approach. Our Sales and Service departments assembled a team with the expertise and manpower required for a job with so many variables. They worked closely with the facility’s operations group to perform the project with minimal disruption.
Every bolt, beam and component had to be handled manually and assembled precisely. The removal process started with a step-by-step teardown of the existing crane. Technicians carefully lowered the equipment, disassembled it within the building and passed each piece out the door. The new crane was then brought in the same way, in pieces small enough to carry but strong enough to form a robust, long-lasting structure once installed. Adjustments were made in real time to account for space limitations, load handling and safe working conditions. Riekes’s ability to adapt throughout the project played a major role in getting the job done properly.
THE RESULTS
In the end, the customer received a fully functional bridge crane system, installed without the need for structural changes or costly construction. The new equipment restored safe lifting operations and met modern performance standards, giving the facility a reliable overhead structure for years to come.
Additionally, the project highlighted the power of planning, communication and creative problem-solving. The team found a way to deliver a safe, successful installation without any delays. By trusting Riekes, the customer avoided costly downtime and received a turnkey solution that worked from day one. The replacement was seamless, the safety issues were resolved and production didn’t miss a beat.