Up, up and installed with the GML800+ counterbalance floor crane

Access to the work area was limited, but the GML800+ material lift could quickly be moved into position and set up to complete the task.

Despite its lightweight design, the GML800+, designed to Hird’s specifications by German manufacturer Wienold, has very impressive lifting capacity.

As the picture shows, it also has one important trick up its sleeve when it comes to working on glazed canopies.

The GML glass manipulator, a vacuum lifter designed specifically for the GML800+ glass lifter, can raise loads directly above into a horizontal plane.

This ‘above head’ glass lifting capability meant that, for this particular job, lifting the glass panel into place was made much quicker and easier.

This was despite the need to move it from a vertical to a horizontal access to attach it to the supporting T-bars.

All this could be done with just two operatives, and almost no manual handling, maximising health and safety, and minimising the risk of damage to the glass or surrounding building.

The GML800+ can lift loads to a height of 7.94 metres. Meanwhile, The GML overhead glass manipulator – which Hird also helped design – has a maximum lifting capacity of 500kg.

Northwood GML800 - Hird counterbalance floor crane

The GML800+ material lift is available in three models: a manual winch; a DC battery, with a 24V drive with electric winch and integrated charging station; and AC mains, with 230/110V drive with electric winch and remote control.

All models of the GML 800+, and the GML overhead glass manipulator, are available for hire nationally via Hird’s three operational hire centres.

Hird also offers powered access equipment, mini cranes, spider cranes and lifting equipment for hire.