Chiller Changeover at the Deep Aquarium
Chiller changeover at The Deep Aquarium
At Finch of Bookham, our team expertly managed the removal and installation of a chiller unit at The Deep Aquarium in Hull. Following strict safety and manufacturer guidelines, we executed each lift with precision, from crane positioning to securing AVMs, showcasing reliability and teamwork throughout this unique and challenging project.
Preparation and Crane Positioning
Our team began by positioning the crane in line with the lift plan. We placed 3 sq/m mats underneath the outriggers to ensure stability. Next, we attached two two-leg chains to the hook and secured spreaders to the chain slings. Four-meter nylon slings were then connected to the underside of the spreaders.
Steelwork Removal Process
Using two-way radios, our slinger guided the crane hook over the first section of steelwork. The steelwork was slung using a double choke method, with the lifting chains securely attached to the hook.
Following the slinger’s direction, we lifted the hook slowly until the slinging arrangement was secure. After thoroughly checking the lifting equipment, we safely lifted the steelwork from the roof structure and lowered it to the floor.
Later, once the replacement chiller was prepared, we repeated the process to return the steelwork to its original position.
Handling the Redundant Chiller
Next, we focused on the redundant chiller. Guided again by two-way radios, the slinger directed the crane hook over the old chiller. The chiller was slung as per the manufacturer’s lifting points, using nylon slings attached to the low-level lifting points.
With the slinger overseeing, we carefully lifted the hook until the slinging arrangement was secure. After double-checking the lifting equipment, we lifted the chiller off the roof and set it down on the vehicle bed. Once in place, we removed all the lifting equipment.
Installing the Replacement Chiller
For the replacement chiller, the slinger used hand signals and two-way radios to guide the hook over the centre of the unit.
Once everything was properly set, we lifted the hook under the slinger’s supervision and ensured the arrangement was secure. After a final safety check, we lifted the chiller from the vehicle bed and carefully placed it on the roof. The client then secured the AVMs (anti-vibration mounts), and we lowered the chiller into its agreed position.
Final Steps and Site Clearance
When all lifts were complete, we de-rigged the crane, secured the loads for transit, stowed away all the lifting equipment, and signed out as a team before leaving the site.
