Temple restoration for Terex

A Terex CBR 24 Plus self erecting tower crane is being used to help restore the Phnom Bakheng, the oldest temple complex of Angkor in Cambodia.

The careful restoration work, which includes the stabilisation, repair, waterproofing and partial reconstruction of the temple, is being organised by the World Monuments Fund (WMF) and the Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap (APSARA) National Authority.

“When the restoration work increased significantly at the beginning of 2008 we analysed the type of work that needed to be carried out,” said Ben Haley, WMF communications manager. “Taking into consideration the position of the temple, we decided that a self erecting tower crane was the answer.

“After further research, the WMF opted to invest in a Terex CBR 24 Plus which can be erected quickly and easily and allows us to lift the stone blocks and other materials up to a maximum of two tonnes or up to its maximum radius of 24 metres. And because of the remote position of Phnom Bakheng and the hot, humid climate, having quality components and a fully galvanised structure was a big advantage. Since being installed, the crane has worked perfectly.”

Following a site survey, the crane was used to restore the lower terrace on the northern half of the east elevation. Some emergency stabilisation and protection of the surrounding brick shrine structures was also completed.

Funds were provided to the WMF by the US State Department in 2007 and the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation in 2011.