Correct Operation
7
PORTA
GANTRY
11000
Notes for Correct Operation
We recommend the use of load-sensing or
overload protection devices on all lifts.
The risk assessment and method statement
must take into account any factors that might
apply additional loading to the product
during lifting operations.
Suitable, appropriately rated winches and
connection plates must be used for all
applications.
Take care when transporting and storing the
product to avoid damage.
Assemble only as instructed (ensure all
bolts are present and fitted correctly as per
instructions).
We recommend that appropriate PPE are
worn when using the equipment.
The product should be set up at a safe
distance from the hazard or lift area, before
moving the structure into place.
The beam must be horizontal prior to any lift
and A-frames vertical and parallel to each
other.
Do not use the product if the trolley does
not run freely along the beam. (for certain
applications, such as when the product is
being used as a restraint point, the trolleys can
be locked into position).
Attach the hoist to the lifting point on the
trolley only, making sure it is attached in a way
that does not expose the user to danger by
the hoist, chain or load.
Do not allow the load to swing.
When lifting keep the load low to the ground.
Only raise and lower loads when castor brakes
are engaged.
To ensure stability of the structure, the
operating span of the beam (C) must be equal
to or greater than the distance between the
castors on the A-Frame (G).
The supporting ground/structure where
the gantry is to be used must be stable
and capable of withstanding the maximum
expected load applied during use.
To avoid side pull, lowering and lifting should
only be carried out when the load chain forms
a straight and vertical line between the load
and lifting attachment point on the trolley
(refer to figure A).
Warning
The equipment should not be used outside
of its limitations, or for any purpose other than
that for which it is intended.
When winching, only use one winch with each
sheave and make sure they never cross paths
with each other.
Do not lift or transport loads while personnel
are in the danger zone.
Do not allow personnel to pass under a
suspended load.
Never leave a suspended load unattended.
It is not recommended to mix the use of
the gantry with personnel and goods lifting
simultaneously.
Do not start moving the load along the beam
until you have checked that it has been
attached correctly.
When moving a loaded trolley along
the beam, move the load steadily and in
a controlled manner and avoid sudden
movements.
Don’t allow the load to hit the product frame.
Be aware of hazards when setting up/folding
down, such as trapping fingers in rotating
parts.
A
Be aware of any adverse weather conditions
such as strong or gusty winds which could
impose additional horizontal loads and affect
the stability of the structure. Stop using if
weather is impacting on lifting, and either
disassemble the gantry or tie it to a rigid
structure to ensure it can’t overturn.
Traversing the Load
Due to a high modulus of elasticity in aluminum,
when loaded the gantry beams will deflect.
This is perfectly normal for our products. Using
aluminum enables us to achieve the highest
levels of strength to weight ratio, which is an
important feature of portable gantries. The level of
deflection will be determined by the span length
and the beam profile that is being used, as well as
the weight of the load being lifted.
Before traversing loads on the
PORTA
GANTRY, it
is important to take in to account the following;
Only use appropriate REID trolleys to move the
load on the beam.
When moving a loaded trolley along the
beam, move the load steadily and in a
controlled manner. Do not apply an excessive
force to try and move the load if it does not
move easily.
Depending upon the beam section (A, B or
D), beams will deflect when loaded.
This is
normal.
The greater the load, the greater the
deflection. Please refer to our beam deflection
table for more information. Deflection must be
taken into consideration when planning the lift.
Any traversing of loads along the beam must
be performed in a controlled manner to ensure
complete stability of the structure throughout
the operation.
Deflection of the
PORTA
GANTRY can be
reduced (or limited) by increasing or down
rating its capacity by 50%. Increasing the beam
section can also help limit deflection. Please
contact REID for further advice.
Another safe recommendation for moving the
load along the beam is to use a mechanical aid.
REID Lifting can supply you with our geared
Trolleys, rope control systems or shackled
cheek plates can be fitted. The rope control
system is particularly useful on longer beams or
where the gantry is at maximum height of lift.
Using a mechanical aid such as a geared trolley,
chain hoist in conjunction with shackled cheek
plates or rope control system for traversing the
load helps optimize the gantry capacity.
The Trolley Rope Control system has the added
advantage of enabling the operator to control
the movement of the trolley from a safe location
at the side of the gantry. The system includes
a winch and series of sheaves that produce a
mechanical advantage and reduce the effort
during operation.
For guidance we recommend the maximum
loads that can be safely moved with standard
trolleys without a mechanical aid (subject
to all other site conditions being taken into
consideration in a risk/hazard analysis) are:
