Project Overview

The installation of the Pherris Wheel presented a unique challenge: erecting a large, rotational attraction in a vibrant public environment with limited staging space and strict safety parameters. Thackray Crane’s team collaborated closely with the zoo, general contractor, and onsite stakeholders to develop a custom heavy-lift strategy that prioritized efficiency, safety, and minimal disturbance to zoo operations.

The Challenge

Working within a dense healthcare environment left little margin for error. The project required significant lifting capacity, extended reach to clear the building parapet, and tight scheduling to align with hospital operations and contractor timelines.

The Solution

To meet the project’s demands, Thackray deployed the 500-ton Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1. Its lifting power, stability, and reach made it the ideal crane to safely access the Toll Pavilion rooftop and accurately place the cooling tower components.

Beyond crane services, Thackray provided a complete logistics solution:

• Warehousing & Storage: New cooling tower components were received and securely stored at Thackray’s facility until the site was ready for installation.
• Heavy Transport & Hauling: Thackray’s trucking division transported the oversized components directly from the warehouse to the hospital on installation day, eliminating third-party coordination.

Execution

The lift was completed in two phases. Existing cooling tower components were rigged and removed first. Once the rooftop was cleared, the new units were hoisted directly from the transport trucks and set precisely into position using the LTM 1400-7.1.

By managing warehousing, transport, and lifting in-house, Thackray maintained a tight schedule, reduced logistical complexity, and ensured safe, efficient execution throughout the project.

Results

• Seamless removal and replacement of critical HVAC infrastructur
• Minimal disruption to hospital operations
• Single-source accountability for logistics, transport, and lifting
• Safe, efficient execution in a constrained healthcare environment