WH Scott
Glenveagh Properties Overhead Crane Installation
End-to-end design and installation of overhead crane systems to support a high-capacity off-site manufacturing facility.
Project Snapshot
Client: Glenveagh Properties
Location: County Carlow, Ireland
Provider: WH Scott
The Challenge
Glenveagh Properties undertook a major redevelopment of the former Braun factory in County Carlow, transforming it into a modern off-site manufacturing facility for timber and light gauge steel frame production. The facility required an efficient lifting solution to support multiple assembly lines while maintaining open floor space for forklift operations and material handling.
A key constraint was the structural layout of the building, which featured widely spaced concrete pillars and existing roof trusses. The client required that no additional support columns be installed on the factory floor, as this would obstruct workflow and reduce operational efficiency. This significantly limited conventional crane installation approaches.
Initial design concepts involving long-span crane rails supported by pillar-mounted brackets proved cost-prohibitive, exceeding €2 million and far surpassing the allocated €800,000 budget. A more innovative, cost-effective solution was required without compromising safety or performance.
The Solution
WH Scott redesigned the entire system, opting to support the crane infrastructure from the existing concrete pillars and roof trusses. Before proceeding, the team carried out extensive on-site load testing over three days to verify the structural capacity of the roof. This ensured it could safely accommodate crane loads, associated steelwork, and required safety margins.
A bespoke system of steel hangers was engineered to integrate with the existing roof trusses. These hangers formed the primary support for the crane system and were carefully positioned to avoid obstructions such as purlins, sprinkler systems, and electrical services. Detailed site measurements were conducted over five days to ensure precise installation.
Nine overhead cranes were installed, including:
- 5 × 1000kg cranes
- 1 × 2000kg crane
- 3 × 3200kg cranes
All cranes feature 8m spans, 6m heights, and a combined 900 meters of crane rails. The system included underslung crane bridges, radio controls, backup pendant systems, and integrated safety features such as slow-down limit switches. All systems were fully commissioned, load tested and certified prior to handover.
The Outcome
Key Results:
- Successful installation of 9 overhead cranes within a complex, space-restricted facility
- Project delivered within 7–8 months and within the €800,000 budget
- Enhanced manufacturing efficiency and safety across timber and steel production lines
Additional Notes:
WH Scott provided training for 60 crane operators to ensure safe and effective use of the equipment. Ongoing maintenance, inspection, and certification services are also being delivered to support long-term operational reliability.
Doc › TESTIMONIAL “Partnering with WH Scott & Son Engineers for the design, manufacture, testing, and certification of ten overhead cranes has been a gamechanger for Nua Manufacturing – Glenveagh Properties. Their expertise and meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire process were evident in the quality and performance of the cranes. The project was managed seamlessly from start to finish, significantly enhancing our operational efficiency and safety. We are extremely satisfied with the results and the exceptional service provided by the whole team at WH Scott & Son Engineers” › QUOTE (optional)
Garrett Dempsey
Off Site Manufacturing Director of Glenveagh Properties plc