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In the world of heavy lifting, precision, safety, and innovation are paramount. Sterling Crane recently exemplified these principles by winning the Heavy Lift of the Year Award (over 20 tons) from the Canadian Crane Rental Association (CCRA). This prestigious accolade recognizes their outstanding work at the Site C Dam in Peace River/Fort St. John, B.C., achieved with the crucial assistance of the Vita Load Navigator provided by Cross Country Canada Supplies & Rentals.
The Award-Winning Lift
Sterling Crane's triumph involved erecting three penstock towers—the tallest and largest structures in the Site C Dam transmission line—over a rigorous two-week period. These towers are integral to connecting the Site C Dam to the BC Hydro power grid, a feat requiring meticulous planning, coordination, and execution.
The method employed by Sterling Crane was nothing short of exemplary. The tower sections were initially stick-framed at a laydown area, then transported horizontally over a kilometre to the lifting site by Apex-NorLand. A tandem lift involving a 440-ton main crane and a 90-ton tail crane ensued, with rigging connection points ensuring stability and precision. For the first time in Canada, the Vita Load Navigator played a pivotal role in controlling and stabilizing the load, setting a new benchmark for heavy lifting operations.
The Vita Load Navigator: A Game Changer
The Vita Load Navigator (VLN) is a revolutionary device designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of crane operations. Here’s how it contributed to Sterling Crane's award-winning lift:
Precision Control: The VLN measures over 1,000 data points per second, detecting load movement in real-time and adjusting the load with high-powered fans. This ensures that the load remains stable and eliminates issues like spinning and rotation, which can cause site damage or injuries.
Remote Operation: Operators can control the VLN remotely from a distance of up to 600 feet. This feature is particularly useful in hazardous conditions, allowing for precise load positioning without the need for manual taglines.
Speed and Safety: The VLN’s dynamic speed control and auto hold features enable operators to maintain load positions in challenging conditions, making operations up to 50% faster. Additionally, the system reduces injuries from spinning loads by 63% and cuts the fatality risk by 75%.
Cross Country Canada's Contribution
Cross Country Canada Supplies & Rentals provided Sterling Crane with the Vita Load Navigator, a testament to our commitment to supporting the crane industry with cutting-edge technology. Our partnership with Sterling Crane not only facilitated a successful project but also helped set new industry standards for heavy lifting.
"We're pumped to see Sterling Crane snag the Heavy Lift of the Year Award (over 20 tons) from the CCRA! Their Grande Prairie crew rocked it with our Vita Load Navigator. So proud to be part of your success!" - Cross Country Canada's congratulatory post.
Sterling Crane's Dedication and Team Effort
Sterling Crane's success story is also a tale of teamwork and dedication. The Grande Prairie branch’s meticulous execution, combined with the innovative VLN, underscored their motto of "lifting the weight off our client's shoulders. Safely." The team, comprising Wade H, Gary B, Brian B, Dave B, and many others, worked tirelessly to achieve this remarkable feat.
"Together, we continue to reach new heights!" exclaimed Sterling Crane in their celebratory post, emphasizing the collective effort and hard work that made this achievement possible.
Setting New Standards in Heavy Lifting
The collaboration between Sterling Crane and Cross Country Canada Supplies & Rentals demonstrates the transformative impact of advanced technology in the crane industry. The Vita Load Navigator not only enabled a safe and efficient lift but also highlighted the importance of innovation in overcoming complex challenges.
As the crane industry continues to evolve, partnerships like these will play a crucial role in pushing the boundaries of what is possible, ensuring that heavy lifting operations are safer, more efficient, and more precise than ever before.
For more information on the Vita Load Navigator and other innovative solutions, visit Cross Country Canada's website or contact our team to see how we can support your next project.
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