Nemours Cooling Towers Case Study
From Plan to Placement
The Project
Replacing massive cooling towers while squeezed between two towering downtown buildings is a logistical puzzle demanding precision, power, and meticulous coordination.
For the Nemours building in Wilmington, DE, the project wasn’t just a lift and shift.
It entailed balancing the complexity of the lift while keeping the critical systems in the building running and coordinating with city officials to prevent traffic jams.
The project involved the removal of the old cooling tower and the precise installation of four new sections, each weighing up to 15,000 lbs.
Scope of Work
- Providing a 400-ton crane and skilled crew for all lifting operations.
- Supplying experienced riggers and all necessary rigging equipment.
- Managing the storage of the new cooling tower sections.
- Coordinating and executing the trucking of the new cooling towers to the site and the removal of the old towers.
Equipment & Planning
The project necessitated the use of a Liebherr LTM-1350 (400 Ton Crane) configured with:
- 308,000 lbs of counterweight
- Y-Guide System
- 157’ Luffing Jib
A detailed lift plan was created using 3D Lift Plan software to ensure precision and safety.
The lift plan meticulously outlined the crane configuration, load details, lift information, setup procedures, rigging specifications, and safety protocols.
Challenges & Solutions
Due to the limited space available for crane setup and operation, this project had an extra level of difficulty.
We worked closely with the City of Wilmington, building owners, and onsite contractors to get the project underway.
This required:
- Securing a week-long shutdown of Orange St. in Wilmington.
- Coordinating the mobilization of 16 tractor trailers to transport the crane and equipment.
- Utilizing a 75-ton assist crane to support the main lift.
Results
Active Crane successfully completed the cooling tower removal and replacement in just three days. The contractor maintained their project timeline and budget.
Efficient Project Completion
Logistical Expertise
Collaboration & Coordination
On-track Budget & Schedule
Reach Us
103 Water Street
Wilmington, DE 19804
302.998.1000
active@activecrane.com
Request a Quote
Please provide us with job request details and we will contact you as soon as possible. Feel free to call us at 302-998-1000.