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Case Study: Data Center Chiller Install With Double CMOD Setup

October 1, 2021

Case Study: Data Center Chiller Install With Double CMOD Setup

Data Center Chiller Install With Double CMOD Setup

Two CMOD spreader frame units from LGH hoisting an industrial chiller onto a data center in Illinois

Two CMOD spreader frame units from LGH hoisting an industrial chiller onto a data center in Illinois.

LGH Equipment Used:

 

Introduction

LGH was called upon to provide equipment for a long-time customer, AMS Mechanical, performing an install of five air-cooled chiller units into a new data center being constructed in Northern Illinois. For this lift, the sensitive nature of the install and the size of the air-cooled chillers made getting the right rigging setup a priority. With prior experience installing these units with multi-beam picks, AMS was up to the task. Tim Riordan, Vice President of the Mission Critical Group for AMS, handled the planning, procurement, and execution of the project. LGH rental representative Vince Bellik oversaw the rental equipment to ensure a smooth lift.

 

The Challenge

Several critical challenges complicated the lift:

  • • Tight Headroom Restrictions: FAA permits limited overhead clearance, making equipment selection critical.
  • •Multiple Pick Points: Each chiller required precise multi-point lifting to maintain stability and even weight distribution.
  • • Long Reach Requirement: Crane equipment had to reach far distances with limited space, adding complexity to the lift.
Jobsite picture of LGH cmod spreader frame rigging, helping install an industrial chiller at a data center in Illinois.

Two CMOD spreader frames for LGH helped install the industrial data center chiller unit.

The Solution

To navigate these challenges, AMS Vice President Tim Riordan and LGH rental representative Vince Bellik collaborated closely, selecting a combination of LGH equipment specifically tailored to the constraints:

  • • MOD50 Spreader Beam: A 20-foot MOD50 beam positioned below the crane hook provided optimal load distribution.
  • • CMOD Spreader Frames: CMOD configurations (9×9 and 9×12) were chosen to encapsulate all eight pick points effectively, eliminating the need for an extra row of beams and significantly reducing headroom requirements.
  • • Mechanical Adjustment: Four 3T come-a-longs were employed for precise leveling adjustments, ensuring stable lifts despite challenging spatial constraints.

According to Riordan, “We’ve used that CMOD a lot for these types of projects. It was uneventful, and that’s exactly what you want.”

The Result

Despite the complexity of limited space and precise lifting requirements, AMS Mechanical successfully installed all five air-cooled chillers smoothly and safely. Each unit, weighing 32,000 pounds, was handled efficiently, proving again the value of LGH’s rigging solutions. The project reinforced AMS Mechanical’s trust in LGH, highlighting the importance of dependable equipment and expert collaboration for critical installations.

Ready to Tackle Your Next Lift?

Partner with LGH for precision equipment and expert solutions tailored to your project’s needs. Contact LGH today to discuss how we can support your lifting and rigging requirements.

About AMS Mechanical

AMS Mechanical is a respected mechanical services provider known for expertise in mission-critical installations, HVAC, plumbing, and specialty projects. The firm consistently partners with LGH, relying on their high-quality rigging gear and expert service for challenging lifts.

About LGH

LGH holds North America’s largest inventory of lifting and rigging equipment, offering safe and efficient solutions for diverse industries. With over 70,000 pieces of equipment and extensive expertise, LGH is committed to supporting customers with reliable, precision rigging gear.