PROBLEM:
The Orlando StarFlyer, poised to be the world's tallest swing ride, presented a unique set of challenges. The installation site was tight and congested, hemmed in by egress and real estate regulations, making the assembly of heavy equipment a logistical nightmare. The project demanded precision equipment transportation, crane services, and heavy equipment rigging to erect and assemble nine 40-foot sections, each weighing between 44,000 to 118,000 pounds. Big Iron International was brought on board for our unparalleled expertise in project management and turnkey crane solutions, with the expectation to execute this monumental task efficiently and without disrupting the bustle of International Drive.
SOLUTION:
Big Iron's team worked meticulously, coordinating with international partners to manage the unloading of shipping containers, some of which required the use of telescopic forklifts due to their open-top nature. With our comprehensive equipment logistics services, Big Iron supplied operators, cranes, and transportation to relocate equipment on-site seamlessly.
Adapting to the spatial constraints, Big Iron’s innovative approach saw the assembly of the lighter sections first, setting a pattern of assembly that ensured maximum security and safety. Our skilled operators, alongside certified erectors, constructed the StarFlyer with a strategic lift plan that used a sophisticated AC500 600-ton Demag crane, avoiding the need for more intrusive and expensive alternatives proposed by other contractors.
Reconfigurations of the crane were performed six times in an adjacent parking lot, a testament to Big Iron's commitment to adaptability and precision in project management. This meticulous planning was critical in managing additional challenges, including securing and configuring hoisting components within a tight 10-day window while combating wind and inclement weather.
SUCCESS:
The successful construction of the Orlando StarFlyer is a standing testament to Big Iron International's commitment to excellence. The client's schedule and budget were maintained without compromise to safety or efficiency. By skillfully navigating logistical challenges and demonstrating exceptional heavy equipment rigging and custom steel fabrication capabilities, Big Iron solidified its reputation as a full-service provider of turnkey crane solutions.
The result is not just a breathtaking addition to Orlando's skyline but also stands as a beacon of Big Iron's capacity to execute custom crane projects of scale with agility and precision. The high client satisfaction and the iconic nature of the StarFlyer are proud additions to Big Iron International’s unique, diverse, and impressive portfolio of services.