Tec GBR’s capability to adapt to even the most unusual and challenging projects is exemplified by the recovery project undertaken at Auchinstarry Marina. We were approached by Scottish Canals to provide an innovative and efficient solution for recovering a 50-tonne canal boat that had sustained damage after being dropped approximately one foot onto a haulage trailer during a failed lifting operation caused by improper rigging.
Upon being contacted, Tec GBR conducted an immediate on-site evaluation to After conducting a detailed on-site survey, Tec GBR determined that the most effective and safe approach would involve designing and fabricating a bespoke temporary lifting frame to facilitate the recovery process.
The site survey revealed several challenges that required careful consideration. The damaged haulage trailer could no longer support or move the vessel safely, and access to the site presented logistical constraints. Furthermore, a comprehensive inspection of the boat’s hull was necessary to evaluate the damage sustained during the incident. Based on these findings, Tec GBR proposed a custom-engineered temporary lifting frame to allow controlled lifting of the vessel and removal of the trailer.
Our in-house engineering team promptly designed and fabricated the temporary lifting frame to address the unique requirements of the project. The frame was equipped with Ancillary hydraulic jacks, enabling precise and incremental lifting of the boat.
This design ensured even load distribution to protect the integrity of the hull and included stabilising components to maintain safety and security throughout the process. Once the frame was positioned and the jacks engaged, the boat was lifted carefully off the damaged trailer, which was then safely removed to provide unobstructed access for further inspection.
With the trailer removed, Tec GBR conducted a thorough investigation into the damage sustained by the canal boat. Using advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, areas of structural Damage in the hull were identified and evaluated. Following the investigation, a detailed repair proposal was submitted to and approved by the main contractor. The repair work was carried out by Tec GBR’s skilled fabrication team, adhering to high standards to ensure structural integrity. Precision welding techniques were employed to restore the hull, and rigorous quality control measures were implemented at every stage of the process.
The repairs were completed swiftly, maintaining the accelerated timeline required by the project. Following the successful repair, a revised lifting plan incorporating lessons learned from the initial lifting failure (TEC GBR were not involved in the previous failed lift) The updated plan featured improved rigging configurations, enhanced safety measures, and detailed procedures to mitigate potential risks. Using this plan, the canal boat was safely lifted directly from the temporary lifting frame and lowered into the canal. The final lifting operation was executed without any issues.
