Smakranar uses UNIC spider on smelter

Iceland-based crane dealer Smakranar has used a six tonne capacity spider crane from UNIC Cranes Europe for work on a new silicon metal smelter in Iceland.

For its first job, the URW-706 was lifted onto the third floor of the new building, where it then set to work in lifting two high power electric control boards. The 706 then moved the boards up to their final resting point on the fourth floor.

The spider crane was delivered to the site in Helguvik, near the Scandinavian island’s international airport, via the company’s local dealer, Smakranar.

Erlingur Snær Erlingsson, owner of Smakranar, said, “This lift worked out perfectly and all relevant parties were thrilled with the power and precision of the 706. Also, the radio remote was a very important factor for both lifts. It was really easy for the operator to see critical points, such as the closeness of boom to the steel structure and seeing the load being lifted from the ground floor.

“The crane is now on the top floor installing over 20 tonnes of steel structures and will perform various lifts all around the building. Later this summer, it will go inside the international airport in Keflavik to install about 40 to 50, four tonne concrete beams as the airport is being expanded.”

Graeme Riley, chief executive at UNIC Cranes Europe, added, “It’s fantastic to see the URW-706 being used on prominent national and international projects. With its six tonnes of lifting power but still compact enough to get into small spaces, it’s perfect for a wide range of jobs. We’ve worked with Erlingur’s company for over 10 years in Iceland, and our partnership is going from strength to strength.”