By: Kelly Holdaway On: April 03, 2012 In: Blog Comments: 0

A Unic mini spider crane proved to be the perfect compact lifting solution for working on the latest construction project taking place inside the walls of the historic Ripon Cathedral in North Yorkshire.

Founded in 672 AD, Ripon Cathedral has been rebuilt several times in its history, and this time a Unic URW-095 mini crane was hired for a month to help improve the cathedral’s already magnificent interior. By installing three new glass porches, the building’s entrance was to be redesigned so it was more welcoming to visitors and let more light into the nave.

With a lifting capacity of just under a tonne and at only 0.6m wide, this lightweight mini crane could be easily transported inside through the narrow cathedral doors without disturbing any of the building’s well-preserved structure. The crane’s LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) power supply also meant that only non-toxic fumes were released into this sensitive environment.

The mini crane lifted a number of bronze clad steel frames from stillages into position to build the new entrance porches.  It also assisted in installing the precious decorative glass panels onto the structure, which feature engravings of the cathedral’s founder, St Wilfrid.

Now the 100,000 visitors that Ripon Cathedral receives annually will be able to get an even better look at its amazing architecture as the doors can be left open during the day to let the light in.

Unic mini cranes are a popular choice for working safely in environments that need to be protected, such as cathedrals, churches and listed buildings. Take a look at our recent glazing work in St Andrews Church in Croydon and Astley Castle in Warwickshire.

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