Pewag UK Group delivers complete below-the-hook solution for rooftop lift

Pewag UK Group has successfully delivered a complete below-the-hook lifting solution for EJ McGovern Crane Hire during the installation of a 7000kg air source heat pump (ASHP) on a rooftop in Oxford.

The project brought together equipment from across the Pewag UK Group portfolio, with a Modulift CMOD 24 Spreader Frame, Pewag Levo load balancer, Pewag lifting chains and snatch blocks working together to provide the control and flexibility required for a complex lifting operation.

The heat pump presented several challenges due to its uneven weight distribution and centre of gravity. With limited space available at roof level, the lifting arrangement needed to provide accurate control during positioning and final placement.

The combination of the Modulift CMOD 24 Spreader Frame and Pewag Levo load balancer enabled the unit to be lifted from eight lifting points while allowing the load to be levelled remotely throughout the operation.

The Pewag Levo load balancer provided precise control of load imbalance during the lift, allowing adjustments to be made safely from ground level. The 20t model has an imbalance capacity of up to 6000kg, making it suitable for applications where accurate load positioning is required.

The Modulift CMOD range is designed for multi-point lifting applications, with configurable 4-point, 6-point and 8-point lifting arrangements available. In this application, the CMOD 24 spreader frame provided the stability and load distribution required for the rooftop installation.

Pewag snatch blocks were also incorporated into the rigging arrangement, demonstrating how equipment from across the Pewag UK Group portfolio can be combined to provide a complete lifting solution tailored to the requirements of the application.

Pewag says that the project highlights the benefits of sourcing below-the-hook equipment from a single group portfolio. By combining Modulift’s lifting expertise with Pewag’s rigging solutions, customers can access solutions designed around the specific challenges of each lift.

McGovern Crane Hire was the first UK mobile crane company to invest in the Pewag 20t load balancer via Rope & Sling Specialists, strengthening its capability to undertake complex lifting operations requiring enhanced control and precision.

“Having the right equipment for the job makes a significant difference, particularly when working with awkward loads and challenging installation requirements,” says Kieran McGovern, director at EJ McGovern Crane Hire.

“The 20t load balancer gave our team the ability to control and level the ASHP remotely, while the Modulift CMOD 24 frame and Pewag snatch blocks provided the stability and flexibility needed for an efficient rooftop installation.”

The Pewag Levo Load Balancer and compensator range is hydraulically driven and designed for precise load control, combining remote operation, accurate valve adjustment and the capacity to manage significant load imbalances. The system supports controlled load handling across a range of applications, including construction, energy, housing, concrete and solar projects.

Available with either chain or synthetic sling options, the load balancer can be configured to suit different lifting requirements and incorporates features including remote control operation, integrated battery charging, floodlights and protective casing options.

Andy Charlesworth, sales director at Pewag UK Group says, “Projects like this demonstrate how Modulift and Pewag equipment can be combined to deliver a complete below-the-hook solution. By bringing together the Modulift CMOD spreader frame, the Pewag load balancer and rigging equipment, McGovern Crane Hire was able to lift, control and position an awkward rooftop load with precision. It highlights how our combined product portfolio can support customers with safe, efficient and engineered lifting solutions.”

The successful installation demonstrates how advanced below-the-hook equipment can help crane operators overcome load control challenges, reduce manual intervention and improve safety during complex lifting operations.