Re-Ropes
High-Rise Passenger Lift Rope Replacement Project
Comprehensive lift rope replacement and system upgrades in a live 62-storey commercial building.
Project Snapshot
Project: High-Rise Passenger Lift Rope Replacement Project
Location: London, UK
Provider: Re-Ropes
The Challenge
A 62-storey commercial skyscraper in London’s financial district required critical maintenance and upgrades to a bank of eight double-decker passenger lifts. Each lift system carried a substantial static load of approximately 24,000kg, incorporating lift cars, counterweights, and compensation ropes.
The work had to be carried out in a fully operational building, creating significant logistical and safety challenges. Minimizing disruption to tenants while maintaining strict adherence to safety standards was essential. Additionally, the complexity of the lift systems required precise balancing and alignment to ensure continued performance and reliability.
A robust and carefully controlled method of work was required to safely handle heavy components, replace key elements, and maintain operational continuity throughout the project.
The Solution
Re-Ropes developed a detailed and safe system of work tailored to the constraints of a live high-rise environment. Specialist lifting and testing equipment was deployed to safely manage the handling and weighing of lift components. Shaft scaffolding was installed and supervised to provide secure access for engineers.
The lift cars and counterweights were suspended using rated lifting gear, with secondary safety slings and fail-safe systems in place to ensure maximum safety. The team used the Henning Weight Watcher LSM-XL system to accurately measure and balance the loads, ensuring optimal system performance.
Key components were upgraded, including the replacement of main suspension ropes, lift car and counterweight diverter pulleys, and machine wrap diverters. The lift machines were also realigned, and new Tesac Shinko wire ropes were installed to enhance reliability and longevity.
The Outcome
Key Results:
- Successful replacement of lift ropes and critical components across eight lift systems
- Safe execution within a live 62-storey building with minimal disruption to occupants
- Improved lift performance, balance, and long-term reliability
Additional Notes:
Following completion of the initial lift, the project progressed across the remaining seven lifts, with works scheduled for completion in 2023.
