US-based Barnhart Crane & Rigging is carrying out the installation of eight overhead cranes at a shipbuilding facility in Mobile, Alabama.
Each crane weighs 226,000lb and spans 140ft. The cranes are being installed in a newly constructed bay that will support the production of submarine components for the US Navy.
The initial plan called for the cranes to be positioned through the unfinished roof. Due to delivery delays, however, the roof was already in place when the equipment arrived.
In response, Barnhart assessed the environment using laser scanning technology and implemented its Push-Up Unit System to overcome restricted access.
This method involved lifting each crane about 70ft with 16 BPU barrels, followed by a 90-degree rotation to situate each unit on its designated crane rail.
The installation is ongoing, with final crane placements expected by August.
After completion, the facility will begin full operations in the expanded bay, supporting the assembly of submarine parts.
Barnhart Advanced Nuclear Market Development director Kris Meyer said: “This project perfectly highlights Barnhart Crane & Rigging’s specialised capabilities within the heavy lifting industry. Our commitment to innovative, non-traditional problem-solving consistently distinguishes us from our competitors.”
Founded in 1969 and based in Memphis, Tennessee, Barnhart provides lifting, rigging and transportation services from more than 60 branches across North America.
The company’s project portfolio includes crane rental, engineered rigging, heavy haul transportation, outage planning, and logistics for industrial sectors.
Barnhart manages projects for power generation, petrochemical and related industries, using a fleet of equipment such as modular lift towers and gantry systems.
The installation in Mobile forms part of the company’s broader operations in complex heavy lifting and transportation.
In May, Barnhart Crane & Rigging installed several overhead cranes at Austal USA’s facility in Mobile, Alabama.
