Davit Cranes: Planning for Pump Installation & Removal

During the pump station design phase, much of the attention is directed towards the pumps, controls, and hydraulics. While these are, of course, all key components of any pump station worth its salt, another important consideration is the mechanism that really does the heavy lifting, so to speak. 

We're talking about cranes, which play a vital role in both the installation and long-term maintenance of many pump stations. Whether lowering pumps into place for the first time or removing them years later for inspection or repair, the right lifting solution can simplify operations, improve safety, and streamline maintenance throughout the life of a pump station.

Starting Installation Off Right

Submersible pumps are some of the main pieces of any pump station, but they can also be one of the heaviest. During installation, pumps must be lowered into the wet well and properly seated in place. Depending on the pump size and application, attempting to handle this kind of equipment without a dedicated crane or equivalent machine can lead to unnecessary challenges and safety concerns. 

Lifting systems like davit cranes help crews position pumps with precision while reducing manual handling requirements. Davit cranes are comprised of a base, a pivoting arm (commonly referred to as a boom), and a mechanical winch to lift, lower, and rotate heavy loads such as pumps. This setup allows for an overall more controlled lifting process, which helps to streamline installation and make startup activities more efficient.

The "Ups & Downs" of Maintenance

In the grand scheme of things, the value of a reliable lifting system becomes much more apparent years down the line during recurring maintenance. In these instances, pumps will typically need to be removed for inspection, cleaning, repairs, or even replacement, and having a dedicated lifting device can greatly reduce the headache of this process. Rather than relying on manual handling or temporary lifting methods, operators can safely raise pumps to a workable height for servicing.

Having a crane readily available also eliminates the need to source additional equipment or spend valuable time assembling temporary lifting solutions. Because pump stations are engineered for long service lives, planning for pump removal in the early stages of design will help reduce future maintenance costs and minimize downtime. By incorporating a crane from the start, owners can avoid scrambling to find suitable lifting equipment when maintenance is required years later.

Choosing the Right Lifting Solution

When comparing lifting solutions, davit cranes and tripod hoists each offer their own advantages. Tripod systems are often valued for their portability and ability to be used across several sites, which makes them a practical option for occasional maintenance activities. While tripod hoists remain a viable option for many applications, davit cranes are often preferred for their safety, convenience, and ease of use. Because they utilize a dedicated mounting point, davit cranes can provide a stable and controlled lifting solution without requiring extensive setup each time maintenance is needed. They also provide a full 360-degree rotation under load, whereas portable tripod setups require the base to be moved in order to move the load. For a pump station owner that performs routine maintenance, the simplicity, reliability, and accessibility of a davit crane can make servicing pumps a much more straightforward process. 

For some time now, one of the primary advantages of using a tripod system has been their use as a portable system. However, modern manufacturers such as Thern now offer portable davit cranes that can be removed when not in use and reinstalled as needed. This generation of portable cranes provides many of the same advantages as a tripod setup, but with the stability and convenience of a stationary mechanism. 

These portable davit cranes have the additional flexibility of a wide range of options for sizing, reach, weight capacity, and more to accommodate various sites and projects. Many of these systems also include features designed to improve quality-of-life and provide greater control in certain situations. For example, some portable cranes can be equipped with rotational bearings that help with crane movement and allow the boom to be locked into place at several different positions. Options like these can make operations much safer in locations that may face extreme conditions. 

Planning for the Long Haul

Some people may view lifting options as a secondary consideration for pump stations when compared to pumps, controls, and the like. However, the ability to safely install and remove pumps is worth far more than one would think. For those properly anticipating the various operations that will occur throughout a station's life, selecting the right crane for a project is process that will have plenty of thought put into it. The various challenges associated with pump removal and servicing can be avoided or minimized by incorporating a reliable lifting mechanism. 

Fortunately, today's pump station owners have more options available than ever before. Whether that means utilizing a tripod hoist, a permanent davit crane, or even a portable variation, there are solutions available for any and every situation. The most important thing is to ensure that pump removal is considered long before it's time for the first round of maintenance. Planning ahead can ensure that your pump station is accessible, serviceable, easy to maintain, and safe for years to come. 

For additional pump station maintenance insights, be sure to explore our blog that covers some of the common inquiries by clicking here. If you're interested in learning more about davit cranes and other lifting solutions, manufacturers such as Thern offer a variety of resources and product information to help owners evaluate their options.