Case Study: Greenville, Alabama WWTP

Problem: The Greenville Plant had modified its operation by installing three, 3500-lb pumps in a 26-ft. deep by 25-ft. wide pit. The Plant staff were able to attach a hoist hook to the pumps, but there was no way to remove the pumps quickly for servicing. Up to this time, a large crane had to be called in to lift the pumps, and this had to be scheduled in advance; it was an expensive solution for routine maintenance of the pumps.

Solution: While at a Trade Show in Mobile, Alabama, the Superintendent of the Greenville Plant met with the Staff of eme and discussed the problem with them. The solution was a Standard Model 4400R GANTRY Crane with a Custom-length Beam and Beam Trolley.

eme recommended the 4400R GANTRY Crane and a 30-ft. Beam that has a lift capacity of 4400 lbs and a clear span of 27 feet. The GANTRY Crane was supplied with a 2-ton electric chain hoist with 40 feet of lift chain, 50 ft. of power cord and a 30-ft. pendant control. Both the lift chain and the power cord were attached to cable stays that were then attached to the Beam. The Operators moved the Locking ‘Surround-Beam' Trolley with ropes attached to the Trolley and then run over sheaves which were located between Custom Cheek Plates on each GANTRY Leg.

The GANTRY Crane spans the 25-ft. wide pit and a safety fence behind which is a safe location for the Operators to control the movement of the pumps from and to their locations in the pit.

Due to its light weight and portability, the eme GANTRY Crane can be used for servicing other equipment around the Plant. The photos show how the GANTRY can service the blower units easily.

The 4400R GANTRY Crane at the Greenville WWTP has met eme's goals:

1. Improve operator safety
2. Increase plant maintenance efficiency
3. Reduce equipment costs

Talk to us for a solution to your maintenance lifting problems.