New telescopic demolition system tackles tall stack structures

Photo: SAEclimber

The company said the platform has been developed to address a key challenge in chimney demolition: the significant difference in diameter between the top and base of tall stacks, which can make standard long-reach equipment impractical.

“This system involves our unique telescopic platform that is specifically designed for high stacks where the diameter difference between top and bottom makes it impossible to reach through long extensions,” said a spokesperson from the company.

“This allows the platform to keep the stack’s shape with an optimal reach of the stack from the deck.”

In addition to greater flexibility, the company said system brings notable safety enhancements, particularly for structures over 200 metres in height.

It includes two high-speed emergency hoists, wind monitoring capabilities, and multiple redundant safety mechanisms to protect personnel during high-altitude operations.

While initially developed for stack demolitions, the platform has the potential to be adapted for other vertical structures.

The telescopic platform has already seen action across multiple international projects, including on sites in Italy, Spain, Australia and Latvia.

One of the most recent deployments was by DEMONTAZA, a contractor that used the platform to demolish a 150-metre stack in record time.