When a big infrastructure project needed 24/7 operation deep inside a 16km tunnel, it was clear from the start that this wouldn’t be a standard crane hire. The job was to take out 1.4-ton, 12-metre pipe sections from the tunnel wall while keeping a safe, partially open roadway for ongoing access.
It was a tight squeeze and we had to be super careful, so we needed a crane that was small but still got the job done. The Jekko JF365 was brought in, and it was a perfect fit for the job.
Working in a narrow, two-way tunnel meant there was hardly any space. The customer had to keep one side of the tunnel open for vehicles and workers, so any crane used had to be efficient without getting in the way. On top of that, the site demanded relentless performance; continuous operation over an entire year, tracking distances far beyond typical crane usage.
To make sure the JF365 could do the job, the team set up a test at their depot to see how it would lift stuff in the same conditions. By showing how the crane could still do the job well even in such tight spots, they won the client over.
Training was another key factor. Nine operators got A66 certification, which is a legal requirement for mini cranes, and they also had some special sessions to get to know the machine they’d be using. There was extra on-site training during the hire, too, to keep things running smoothly and efficiently.
The JF365’s variable rigger base was just what we needed. It meant that the team could rig the crane on the tunnel roadway while keeping one side clear, which was perfect given the working constraints.
To make things even more efficient, the crane was modified with a custom grab attachment. This meant they didn’t have to sling each individual pipe, which sped everything up and reduced the risks of working at height.
A solid maintenance plan made sure the machine was always up and running. It was serviced before the project, and its schedule was adapted to meet the demands of the 24/7 workload. It worked really well, even when it was being used way more than it was designed for.
The JF365 delivered exactly what was needed – and then some. Operators and project managers alike said it outperformed their expectations, proving to be a smart, reliable choice for a tough, high-stakes job.
After a year of intense use, the crane returned for refurbishment. Wayne, the team’s in-house expert, gave it a full inspection, addressed any wear, and ensured it was in top condition again with a full function check.
Now refreshed and ready, the crane is heading straight into another tunnel job – this one even more restricted and challenging than the last.
Since 1981, we have built a solid reputation as a family-run business on the border of Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire. JT Cranes was founded by John Taylor and began as a roadside maintenance and servicing company. In 2006, we turned our focus to mini crane technology, becoming the area experts in mini crane hire, contract lifting and sales.
Contact JT Cranes to to discuss whether our Contract Lifting solutions or our Mini Crane Hire options would work best to help you achieve an effective and safe lifting operation. Call us on 01767 677 155.