Heavydrive simulates large-scale installation for major construction site

03/09/2023 | Print view

A test insertion with the overhead manipulator VSGU 800 K. - © Heavydrive — © Heavydrive

A test insertion with the overhead manipulator VSGU 800 K.

For the construction site at Frankfurt Airport’s new Terminal 3, Heavydrive has been commissioned to provide the equipment to install the facade glass. To make sure that everything goes smoothly when it counts, the company has now performed a test run in Austria.

One of the largest infrastructure projects in Europe is being built in the southern end of Frankfurt Airport. The installation company Heavydrive is involved with its special equipment in the construction of the new Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport, one of the busiest airports in Europe. To ensure smooth and efficient use, the company has organised a four-day test deployment in Klagenfurt, Austria.

The MRK 86.0 assembly crane was used as a mock-up in conjunction with the VSGU 800 K overhead manipulator. The manipulator is controlled by remote control and is able to position glass panes in any position. Three construction site situations were simulated with this.

Firstly, glazing under projection in a confined space. For this, the operator placed an 800-kilo glass pane with a five-degree external inclination overhead. Furthermore, the installation of 6 x 2 metre glass panes on the main facade was tested with the 7-axis forklift manipulator, whereby the 800-kilo glass elements were tilted outwards and placed under a canopy. Lastly, the fitters simulated the installation of glass panes with an internal inclination of 9.5 degrees and a subsequent external inclination of five degrees for two areas.

The installation solutions for the project proved itself

The MRK 86.0 unit and the overhead manipulator VSGU 800 K working together.

"Precise planning in advance is essential, especially for large projects. Because incidents lead to delays for the entire construction project and cause additional costs," explains Heavydrive Managing Director Günter Übelacker. The Heavydrive installation solution intended for the project proved itself during the complex test run for the construction project at Terminal 3 in Frankfurt. The glass panes were set accurately, with the systems being controlled by a single operator via remote control.

Also interesting: An updated installation guides for windows and facades in English

The GMG 1000 glass installation device was used to transport the 800-kilo glass elements. This makes it possible to safely transport glass panes weighing up to 1000 kilograms indoors and outdoors by just one single fitter, even in confined spaces or through narrow passages.