In material handling, tandem lifting describes when multiple cranes lift a load.
Usually, just one crane will be used to lift a load. But sometimes, this isn’t always feasible, especially if the load cannot be safely or practically lifted by a single crane. Therefore, tandem lifting allows for a coordinated effort to take place so that the load can be stabilised. In doing so, the idea is to maintain load stability while also preventing structural damage or crane overload.
At Metreel, we aim to educate you about different aspects of material handling.
So here is more information on tandem lifting, including when it can be an ideal solution to consider during a lifting operation.
How Does Tandem Lifting Work?
Tandem lifting (also known as dual lifting or multi-crane lifting) involves coordinating multiple cranes to lift a load together. Usually, each crane is of similar capacity.
During a tandem lifting operation, each crane takes a portion of the load’s weight. Their movements must be synchronised to maintain load stability and prevent structural damage or crane overload.
Examples of how a tandem lifting operation might work:
- Two cranes are used to lift a long steel beam
- A main crane and an assisting crane lifting a large module onto a platform
- A mobile crane and a crawler crane work together to rotate and position a heavy piece of equipment
In any tandem lifting scenario, the idea of using more than one crane is to provide better control and stability of the load. That said, load distribution between the cranes is key as the load needs to be balanced to avoid overstressing any single lifting point.
When Is Tandem Lifting The Right Solution?
Simply put, tandem lifting is used whenever a single crane cannot safely or practically perform the lift.
Examples of when this might be the case include when:
- The load is too heavy for one crane’s lifting capacity
- The load is long or asymmetrical, requiring multiple pick points for stability
- Site constraints (space, access or obstacles) limit crane placement or reach
- Precision positioning is required and using two cranes can provide better control
- Load distribution needs to be balanced to avoid overstressing one lifting point
A competent person would need to determine if a tandem lift is warranted and if so, what planning and risk assessments need to take place before the lift can go ahead.
Tandem Lifting Considerations
Tandem lifting increases operational complexity, meaning the lifting task must be planned carefully and executed under strict supervision. As part of this, a detailed lifting plan will need to be drawn up by an engineer. Aspects such as the load distribution, crane capacities, rigging details need to be defined within the plan.
There are other factors which can impact the safety and overall effectiveness of a tandem lifting operation. This includes the load sharing calculations for each crane and the rigging arrangement. Environmental factors also need to be determined, especially the potential for wind, which can affect the stability of the lift.
When planning a tandem lift, communication is also very important. Those involved in the operation will need to maintain clear and continuous communication, which may require the use of both radios and hand signals.
Finally, it’s also worth remembering that health and safety laws differ depending on where you are based in the world. Therefore, your country may also have specific laws or guidance that need to be adhered to as part of a tandem lifting operation.
Depending on the nature of the lift, coordinating with local governments, councils or organisations may also be necessary, especially if there is a potential risk to the public or other infrastructure.
Discover Industrial Lifting Solutions At Metreel
Metreel is a leading supplier of cranes including workstation cranes, overhead cranes, jib cranes and more.
Head over to the mechanical handling section of our website to view our product range in full.
Or, for any advice about anything we’ve mentioned above, please send us a message or give us a call on 0115 932 7010.