DROMEC Winches constructs winch system for megadoor Smulders UK

Smulders is an international steel construction company operating in the onshore and offshore sectors. For a new production facility in Newcastle, DROMEC Winches at the request of ASAV lifting- and hoisting technology has developed an advanced winch system for an impressive megadoor.

Megadoor

The impressive production facility stands at a height of 36 meters and a width of 47.5 meters, equipped with a megadoor operated by two powerful winches on each side. The megadoor consists of steel panels divided into sections, hanging from the steel structure. The advanced winch systems effortlessly lift the panels upward or lower them downward, ensuring perfect alignment during opening and closing. Additionally, the winches can be operated independently for added safety or in case of a malfunction. The winch system has the capacity to hoist a weight of 135 tons on a single cable.

Winch System

The two winches are strategically positioned on either side of the megadoor. The cable runs up and over multiple pulleys on one side and descends to a fixed point on the other side. The system is precisely mirrored on the opposite side. Both winches operate synchronously to maintain the desired speed during the opening and closing of the megadoor. The winch system has a pulling force of 19 tons and can handle peak loads of up to 38 tons. In situations where the winches need to bear the weight or during emergencies, the system operates at a lower speed to ensure safety.

Jesper Becks from Smulders:
“The installation of the megadoor was a complex process that required a combination of technical expertise and practical experience. Given our specialization in steel construction, we relied on DROMEC as a reliable partner for the supply and installation of the electromechanical components. DROMEC handled the entire process, from the engineering of the winches and lifting mechanism to the installation. Transparency, flexibility, and safety were paramount at every step. Thanks to DROMEC’s technical knowledge and flexibility, the installation of this impressive 135-ton megadoor went smoothly. The successful and safe completion of the installation is a significant milestone in this project.”

 

Controls

Both winches can be easily operated using a control panel or a button. The control system includes a switch to detect whether the doors are in the upper or lower position. Sensors acting as limit switch are installed at both the top and bottom of the door. Furthermore, the door is equipped with a wind sensor to prevent opening in strong winds. DROMEC has also incorporated a built-in functionality to seamlessly switch from the regular power supply to a generator if necessary.

Pieter van Roekel from DROMEC:
“The Smulders project showcases a combination of precision and weight within a timeframe of approximately 15 weeks. We have made every effort to fully support Smulders throughout the process. The installation and tensioning of the cables were carried out by our experienced team in collaboration with our partners at TWS.”