A research institution required a modular, hand-assembled maintenance platform to service a component that is accessed only infrequently. The design challenge included the need for a large central opening and the ability to adapt to three specific elevation levels.
Design:
Taking into account standard maintenance practices, crane hook height limitations, and obstructions caused by nearby equipment, XCEED developed initial conceptual drawings. The solution featured telescopic aluminum tubing to achieve flexibility and modularity. XCEED proceeded to produce detailed design calculations and fabrication drawings to support the final concept.
Installation:
Given the urgency of the project, XCEED delivered and assembled the platform directly at the client’s facility. The modular design allowed for full assembly at ground level, after which the entire platform was hoisted through an 11-foot square floor opening—just large enough to accommodate the structure. Once elevated, the platform was carefully lowered into position over the equipment to be serviced.
Labeling / Manual / Inventory:
XCEED created a comprehensive Operations and Maintenance Manual, along with a detailed Inventory List and a custom Storage Cart to support long-term use. Since the platform would only be used approximately every five years, clear labeling and assembly instructions were integrated and cross-referenced with the manual to facilitate future reassembly.
Lessons Learned:
During the first installation, it became evident that some rigging hardware was difficult to access. It was later determined that positioning the maintenance platform before placing the plant component on its stand might be a more efficient approach in future installations.
