European materials giant, Saint Gobain, have opened their newest glass
plant at a green-field site in Yorkshire. The half mile long, fully integrated plant, incorporates cranes
and handling systems with a value of £530,000 by Street Crane Company.
Designed for continuous production of up to 650 tonnes of flat glass per day and continuous operation
for next twelve years, the plant demanded cranes of high efficiency and exceptional reliability. Street
were invited to design, build and supply cranes and hoists to meet these exacting requirements. Their
unique Compucrane design software produced simulations of real-life use to refine specifications.
Street delivered ten cranes and hoists. There are five, 16 tonne, double-girder cranes and a single, six
tonne, double-girder dual-speed crane in the main production and warehouse area. The larger cranes transfer
12 tonne glass packs to the warehouse, using glass handling devices supplied by Teodori Impianti of Italy.
The smaller crane provides a flexible back-up in the production area.
Crane and hoist solutions were also developed to assist in maintenance procedures. These allow large
sections of refractory and heavy plant to be removed and replaced quickly, so that full capacity is
restored as soon as possible.
Precise control over the movement of the glass and operator safety were vital considerations. SC
Smartdrive inverter speed controls ensure smooth and finely adjustable acceleration and deceleration.
Remote radio controls allow operators to secure better visibility, safety and fine control over final
manoeuvring. The speeds used at this stage are only a fraction of the maximum possible in general movement.
Radio sets are less liable to damage and can be easily swapped-out if a problem arises.
More UK information:
Keith Rainford, Street Crane Company,
Tel. +44 (0)1298 812456 Fax. +44 (0)1298 814945
e-mail: admin@streetcrane.co.uk Web: www.streetcrane.co.uk