Transformer Lifting Technologies

[buddy91082]

Hi there.

Anyone know of possible methods for lifting/moving 1500kva and above dry type transformers out of low head room spaces? Anyone know of a mobile hydraulic lift that can be placed undre the transformer and lift it up that way?

Thanks.
b

 

[collies99]

If you do no have the head room for a direct lift with a crane you can put it onto rollers, long rigid pipes; floor,must be smooth. A few people will be able to move it about in any directions just like building the pyramid blocks.

get it into an area accessible with a proper and then lift using the appropriate lifting hooks, sling and spreaders.

 

[Jebb]

I would get in touch with a good rigging contractor (aka crane service or millwright). They have all the right tools and methods that make it look simple. If you don't know what you're doing, things can go horribly wrong very quickly. Transformers don't like to get banged around too much!!!

 

[ScottyUK]

I agree with Jebb: get some help from an experienced rigging crew.

In the mean time, what about something like skoots? We've used them to move switchgear modules of roughly 2 tonnes each and have been impressed. They aren't perfect for all applications and the item being lifted needs to be reasonably sturdy but big awkward objects become very maneuverable. I expect a 1.5MVA transformer will be near the top end of their 5-tonne lifting capability.

 

[prc]

Usually transformers are pulled out using the pulling lugs provided.Pull over wooden planks or over lubricated steel rods after jacking up the unit.

 

[Millbo]

Often due to head room and load weight most rigging contractors will use what's call "Jack & Slide" to move a load. This is where they will jack it up high enough to put rails under it then they will push it along those rails with hydraulic jacks.

The better systems have catch pawls that the ends of the cylinders will drop into when they are retracted after pushing the load along.

I've seen lots of transformers moved this way and it's very effective.

 

[ScottyUK]

Don't forget this is a small dry type, not a big system or GSU transformer. Most are within the capability of a decent-sized HIAB crane, given overhead space to operate.

How was it originally installed? Someone has already solved this problem once - look at their solution.

 

[rcw retired EE]

Look at moving just the core and windings, not the enclosure. Dismantling the enclosure may save a few feet and provide more room to jack and slide the transformer.

 

[Padlock01]

You have'nt mentioned where the transformer is installed, whether it has an IP23 enclosure ? usually these encapsulated cast resign transformers have wheels ( if not in an enclosure), so that one can disconnect the cables and wheel it away into an area where it can be lifted and loaded onto a truck.