Both loaded and unloaded level

Challenge

The client needed to install multiple balconies by sliding them around steel beams. Because the balconies were not allowed to have lifting points, this made the lifting operation particularly challenging.

Our approach

For the installation of the balconies, a load‑bearing front frame was used. This frame consists of two support arms on which the elements rest and can be secured. Because the support arms are shorter than the element, they do not protrude on the opposite side, which is essential for placing the balconies tightly against the façades.

The load‑bearing front frame was attached to an RC counterbalance beam (I‑Boom). Thanks to the movable counterweight of the RC counterbalance beam, the frame remains horizontal, allowing the balconies to be slid in a controlled manner around the steel beams. A fixed counterweight configuration was not possible, as the balconies varied in weight and dimensions. For this reason, a Counterbalance beam (Steker) was not suitable in this situation.

In addition, the element could still tilt sideways. To correct this inclination, several solutions are possible. In this case, a simple and effective method was chosen: placing cement bags as additional ballast to keep the balcony level during installation.

Challenge

How do you install precast façade elements underneath an overhang, behind a balcony railing, with only a few millimetres of clearance?

This question was presented to us by a client. The element first had to be guided through the opening at an angle and then, with minimal available movement, be carefully straightened and placed in its final position.

Our approach

Working underneath an overhang required the use of a counterbalanced lifting solution.
Because the available height and working space were limited, an RC counterbalance beam (I‑Boom) was selected. Thanks to its radio‑controlled, adjustable counterweight, the RC counterbalance beam remains horizontal in both loaded and unloaded conditions.

To manoeuvre the element through the narrow opening, the RC counterbalance beam was equipped with an electric linear actuator connected to a vacuum frame to which the element was attached. This allowed the element to be tilted in a controlled manner relative to the RC counterbalance beam and safely guided through the opening.

The element was secured using an adjustable vacuum frame with suction pads and a vacuum pump mounted on the RC counterbalance beam. This setup makes it possible to handle elements of various shapes and dimensions using the same system. Because the vacuum system is attached on only one side of the element, the other sides remain fully accessible, which is ideal for situations with limited manoeuvring and/or installation space.

By combining the RC counterbalance beam with an adjustable vacuum frame operated by an actuator, the façade elements could be installed safely and with high precision, with a minimal risk of damage.

Challenge

For this renovation project, we were asked to help bring all new windows to the correct floor level. The new windows were delivered on transport stillages, which had to be brought inside per floor.

To move the stillages indoors, parts of the façade were dismantled to create an opening of sufficient size.

Our approach

For lifting and placing the transport stillages, a fork carrier was selected, as the stillages were already equipped with suitable pick‑up points for this purpose. At first glance, a pallet hook appeared to be a suitable alternative, but in practice it proved not applicable. The stillage was too tall for a pallet hook, and the clearance above the stillage was insufficient to guide it onto the floor level.

To bring the stillages inside, an RC counterbalance beam (I‑Boom) was used. The RC counterbalance beam was the only suitable solution, as it was essential to keep the fork carrier horizontal while inserting and removing the forks from the stillage.

Thanks to the movable counterweight, the RC counterbalance beam remains fully horizontal in both loaded and unloaded conditions, enabling a safe and controlled lifting operation.