11.6 INFORMATION WHICH SHOULD BE EXCHANGED BETWEEN THE USER AND DESIGNER OR SUPPLIER
For dedicated runways, information exchange should be as detailed as possible. Where the runway is to be used for miscellaneous lifting duties, precise details of the load to be lifted are not always available. In these circumstances, only a general specification can be given and this should include the following information:
Type and style of runway, e.g. free standing, built into the building or suspended from the building structure, including the track section, suspension and fixing details and details of any cantilevered sections. Normally a layout drawing will be provided.
Type of appliance and trolley to be used, e.g. manual or power operated, including the lifting medium, e.g. wire rope or chain. In the case of power operated equipment, this should include details of the power source, isolation and supply system, etc. and voltage, phase(s) and frequency or pressure and delivery rate. If more than one appliance is to be fitted, details of the number permitted in a single span or the minimum load centres at which they are to operate.
SWL or maximum load to be lifted. In the case of a dedicated runway, full details of the load including weight and dimensions and the slinging method to be used.
Details of the supporting structure and/or building to which the runway is to be installed. This should include details of any obstructions which may affect the design or operation of the runway.
If the runway is to be attached to the building or an existing structure, details of attachment brackets and any additional supporting structures, columns, etc. that may be necessary and the position of any stiffening brace members. This should include details of the resultant loads at the attachment points and column bases.
If the runway is to be free standing, details of the supporting structure, including the size and position of supporting structures, columns and foundation base plates, etc. This should include details of the loads imposed on the building floor or foundation.
Minimum headroom required or height to underside of runway. In the case of free standing structures, the overall height should also be given.
Effective lifting height of the appliance.
Environmental conditions, e.g. indoor or outdoor, use within corrosive atmosphere, use in hazardous area, use with dangerous loads, etc.
Details of finish, e.g. special painted or protective finish.
Any special conditions or technical requirements, e.g. flame proofed.
Details of access to the location of the proposed runway for erection and testing purposes. Full installation and maintenance instructions.
This usually calls for an initial site visit by the supplier to survey the area and assess the practicality of the project. In the majority of cases, this type of installation will be carried out by the supplier who will require the structural engineer’s confirmation of the acceptability of the proposed attachment and/or foundation details. The information exchanged should therefore include sufficient details to enable full loading calculations to be made.