Finnish lifting and material handling solutions provider Konecranes has supplied customised overhead cranes for Chart Industries’ new production facility in Theodore, Alabama, US.
The facility, dedicated to manufacturing the largest shop-built cryogenic storage containers globally, required advanced lifting solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
The overhead cranes, integral to the production process, are designed to handle complex and heavy-duty tasks essential for cryogenic tank production.
Chart Industries, which provides cryogenic equipment and energy solutions, operates worldwide, including in Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the US.
The company needed a material handling system capable of matching the pace and complexity of its operations.
Konecranes executed the project, which demanded precise coordination and reliable equipment, in partnership with general contractor Brasfield and Gorrie.
It has offered a customised solution, comprising three 35-tonne semi-gantry cranes and two 175/40-tonne TRDG cranes, alongside a specialised 30-tonne vacuum lifter crane equipped with two trolleys.
The cranes facilitate seamless tandem operations, crucial for lifting entire tanks during the final load-out phase of production.
The integration of Konecranes’ systems has significantly optimised operations at Chart Industries.
The 30-tonne vacuum lifter crane enhances material handling from unloading to welding, while the 35-tonne semi-gantry cranes improve material movement around plate rolling machines.
The 175/40-tonne cranes are vital for handling tank segments and assembling complete tanks.
The collaborative design process involved close coordination between Chart Industries, Konecranes, and Brasfield and Gorrie to finalise the optimal equipment solution.
The lifting solution was engineered to meet the precise, heavy-duty demands of cryogenic tank production, ensuring efficiency and reliability in operations.
Konecranes metals industry support AME, regional sales manager Randy Cantrell said: “We collaborated closely with Chart Industries’ design and engineering team, the general contractor, and our subcontractors to deliver a flexible solution that adapted to changes until the final order was placed.
“The teamwork was exceptional, and I look forward to future projects with Brasfield and Gorrie and Chart Industries. The equipment we provided is truly impressive and seeing it in person highlights its massive scale.”
Recently, US-based plastics processor Pittsfield Plastics Engineering (PPE) has enhanced its operational capabilities by installing a new 10-ton overhead crane from Konecranes.
