IMG executed a complex project, replacing a pulp baling press within a 10-day maintenance window. Overcoming challenges like tight timelines, restricted location, and crane limitations, the team employed innovative solutions and two cranes for a flawless 45-tonne press installation. Meticulous planning, skilled teams, and collaboration with McRaes ensured a safe, on-time, and on-budget project completion.
Bale Press Removal And Installation Project 2022
IMG provided innovative engineering and logistical solutions to remove an existing and install a completely new pulp baling press in its place during a ten-day planned maintenance hold.
The challenges were significant:
The timeframe was tight with the removal and installation project occurring concurrently with planned maintenance work. The project programme required innovative planning, with strategic pre-works and two skilled teams working round the clock.
The press was located in a restrictive location prohibiting any significant lifts withing the building. Significant measurement and planning were undertaken to support and remove minimal feed system components and create a roof opening.
There was minimal internal lifting capability to remove system and ancillary equipment from and onto the new press. A 5.0 tonne spider crane provided safe and time saving internal lifting capability.
The installation of the new press weighing 45 tonne with restricted proximity of the crane to the building presented additional challenges. Two cranes were engaged to complete the work, a Grove 450 tonne mobile crane with luffing jib at 95% capacity to complete the main lift along with a Grove130 tonne to support the main crane during the new press standing up process and provide other external lifting capacity.
The installation was millimetre perfect with the press being landed directly onto upgraded support steelwork without need for any secondary lifting and movement.
IMG and McRaes provided two integrated teams with quality control; rigging, scaffolding, fitting, welding, and key hydraulic experience to component complete both the project and assist OEM engineers with commissioning.
The challenges were significant and met through detailed planning, innovative installation techniques, skilled teams and support partners resulting in the project being completed without safety incident, on time and on budget.
