Customer's Challenge
A client in Sri Lanka initially hired a local in-situ service provider to machine the foundation baseplates of three jetty cranes. However, after multiple attempts, the provider failed to meet the crane manufacturer’s required specifications. This caused significant delays in the assembly and commissioning of the cranes, which were crucial for the new cement plant. The client also faced another challenge: the baseplate thickness had been reduced due to repeated machining attempts, making further rectifications a risk.
Solutions
Metal Machines stepped in by sending an experienced sales representative to inspect the site. Equipped with a precision laser measurement device, we conducted an immediate survey of the baseplates to assess their condition. With extensive expertise in in-situ machining and structural alignment for crane components (such as crane foundations, pedestals, and booms), our representative quickly analyzed the situation and provided a clear solution and timeline for remediation.
Upon confirmation, the Singapore team prepared a customized circular milling machine and shipped it on the next available freight to Sri Lanka. A team of two field service specialists was deployed to complete the recovery mission within 10 days. The team readjusted the first baseplate using improvised jacking techniques to ensure the thickness was maintained while achieving the required specifications. All three baseplates were machined to within 0.1mm surface flatness runout.
To further ensure the successful installation of the cranes without risking the commissioning deadline, our team assisted the client in leveling the baseplates to the crane foundations. The client was extremely satisfied with the quality of work, enabling the timely commissioning of all three cranes for the plant’s operation.
Benefits
Metal Machines’ custom in-situ circular milling machines can accommodate crane pedestals and round foundations ranging from 2 to 6 meters in diameter. This flexibility allows a single machine to handle various sizes of jobs at the same location, offering a significant advantage over off-the-shelf milling machines. This versatility improves response time, as fewer machines are required for preparation.
In this case, Metal Machines provided tailored recovery solutions based on the client’s challenges, sharing our technical expertise and delivering efficient project execution. Our highly trained and committed crew is ready for immediate deployment to any part of the world, ensuring successful in-situ machining and laser alignment tasks.
