Alternator Changeover – Crane Lift & Roof Removal Operation
Alternator Changeover – Crane Lift & Roof Removal Operation
Finch of Bookham was engaged to support a complex alternator and control panel changeover, a project that required the use of a large mobile crane to remove the generator canopy roof from a containerised unit. The lift took place in a tightly constrained environment, which demanded meticulous planning, expert coordination, and full compliance with safety procedures. The operation was carried out over several days and involved both structural lifting and mechanical handling, with multiple phases requiring sequential and reversible actions, using our contract lifting and machinery removal services.
Location: Nutmeg Lane
Client: AVK
Scope: Alternator & Control Panel Changeover
Canopy Roof Removal
The lift began by positioning the crane hook directly over the centre of the generator canopy. Prior to any movement, the canopy had been fully disconnected from the generator container and was free to lift. Lifting slings were attached using 6.5-tonne shackles, and two tag lines secured to the canopy. The crane hook was then raised gradually until the lifting arrangement was under tension and stable. After confirming the security of the setup, the canopy was lifted approximately 150mm from the container to ensure a clean lift and to carry out final checks.
With all inspections completed, the crane continued to lift the canopy until it cleared the generator gantry. It was then slewed carefully over the roof of the building and lowered to ground level on Nutmeg Lane, where it was placed onto timber blocks for temporary storage. The slings were removed, and the same procedure was repeated for the secondary canopy located above the alternator. Once the changeover work was completed inside the unit, the process was reversed, and both canopies were lifted back into position and reinstalled.
Alternator & Control Panel Changeover
The second phase focused on lifting and replacing the alternator and control panels. The slings and 6.5-tonne shackles were secured to the designated lifting points, and tag lines were again attached for control during the lift.
The crane was raised slowly until the slings were taut and secure. After a brief suspension to confirm all lifting equipment was performing as required, the alternator was lifted 150mm to allow for final checks. It was then lifted clear of the container, slewed across the roof of the building, and lowered carefully onto a contractor’s transport vehicle on Nutmeg Lane. Once the alternator was secured on the vehicle, the slings were removed.
The same method was used to install the replacement alternator, with the lift sequence carefully reversed. This process was then repeated for the generator’s control panels, following identical safety and positioning protocols.
Completion and Site Exit
After the final lifts were completed, the crane was de-rigged, and all lifting operations ceased. Staff were signed out, and all plant and vehicles were removed from site. Despite the spatial limitations and the complexity of lifting large, heavy equipment in a confined area, Finch of Bookham delivered the entire project safely, efficiently, and to a high professional standard. The success of this operation highlights our team’s ability to execute precision lifting in challenging environments with minimal disruption.
