Hiab, a company specialising in load handling solutions, has completed the installation of two new cranes on the London Eye, UK, replacing the original units that had been in use since it opened in 2000.
The installation was undertaken over five days in mid-March.
It formed part of scheduled maintenance designed to ensure the continuous operation of the 135m observation wheel, which draws around 3.5 million visitors each year.
Engineers fitted the new cranes on custom-built pedestals on the wheel’s north side, one positioned waterside and the other landside.
These new units are tasked with supporting a variety of engineering activities, including lifting heavy components, maintaining capsules, and providing access for work on mechanical and electrical systems.
Their deployment allows for operations in restricted spaces and at height, offering an alternative to standard access methods.
The HIAB eX.232 HIPRO E-5 cranes meet EN 280 standards for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP). They include the SPACEevo control system, electro-hydraulic technology, an Olsbergs V200 valve, a 2t hoist, and an interlock system that prevents wheel rotation unless the cranes are safely stowed.
Operators manage the cranes via the HIAB CombiDrive 4 remote, enabling full control from within the basket.
Maintenance of the cranes is covered under Hiab’s ProCare plan.
Nick Sampson Mechanical Engineering Services worked with Hiab on this project, which followed almost a year of planning.
Installation involved the use of a Liebherr mobile crane, with one of the most technically demanding stages requiring precise navigation through the wheel’s spokes and careful rotation of the wheel itself to allow access.
The new cranes also support annual public celebrations, such as facilitating the placement of approximately 2,000 fireworks on the London Eye for New Year’s Eve.
Hiab sales executive John Abbott said: “The HIAB eX.232 HIPRO E-5 provides a fully certified MEWP solution, combining advanced control systems with built-in redundancy.
“This enables smooth, coordinated operation and gives engineers a reliable system to carry out their work with confidence.”
