Crane Hot Line April 2026 | Page 29

Lifting Construction Modules meet the need.

“ Today, many tower crane manufacturers offer models with maximum capacities of more than 40 U. S. tons, and in some cases 70 U. S. tons, or more,” said Patton.

Besides just weighing more, larger modules often also present challenges in motion control.

That’ s where below-the-hook load controllers can help.

“ As modules and panels become heavier and more geometrically complex, they see increased wind loading and rotational instability,” said Caleb“ Rosie” Rosenberger, global account manager who leads product training at Vita Industrial, maker of the Vita Load Navigator.

The Load Navigator is a wirelessly controlled, battery-powered below-the-hook device that uses high-powered fans to provide rotational control of the load and help with precise placement.

“ The system monitors more than

a thousand data points per second and acts to control the load rather than react after unwanted motion has started,” said Rosenberger.

In many cases, he says, that kind of device can reduce the need for taglines.

“ We are seeing this become more popular in applications, from modular construction to civil projects, renewable energy, oil and gas work, facade-panel installation, transportation, high-rise construction and many others,” said Rosenberger.

Project Example

One project that shows how traditional and modular construction can work together is a new hospital going up in Chippewa Falls, Wis.

The project’ s general contractor, the Boldt Company, is stick-building about 70 % of the complex.

Two Vita Load Navigators in cantilevered

RocketLever configuration use fan driven air flow to deliver the precise control needed to install modular wall panels.

Outrigger Pads and Crane Mats- crafted with precision. 100 % American made to guarantee STRENGTH, STABILITY, AND SAFETY.

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