VIDEO: First-of-its-kind STS crane demolition

Global Rigging & Transport (GRT), working with AMIX, carried out the controlled demolition of a towering ship-to-shore (STS) gantry crane in Campbell River, Canada. Believed to be among the first STS crane demolitions in the country, the project showcased GRT’s engineering precision and commitment to safety.

The crane was moved from Vancouver to Campbell River by barge before being demolished using a meticulously engineered controlled-fall technique.

The crane, a 1996 ZPMC with a 50 tonne single-lift capacity, stood at 52 metres (170 feet) tall and weighed approximately 1,200 tonnes (1,323 U.S. tons). After nearly three decades of service at the Port of Vancouver – during which it is estimated to have moved more than two million containers – the crane was transported by barge to Campbell River for dismantling at the end of its working life.

GRT’s team executed the project using a controlled-fall demolition method designed to maximise efficiency and minimise risk. To begin, all oils, hydraulics and lubricants were carefully purged and removed to ensure environmental safety. Reinforcements were then installed to stabilise the crane at the designated fall location.

Once secured, the team carried out a planned series of strategic cuts to weaken key load-bearing members. Finally, the precision severing of the support lines guided the crane’s controlled descent, bringing it down exactly within its intended footprint, as demonstrated in the accompanying demolition video.

“The demolition went flawlessly,” said Kenny Zappitelli, GRT supervisor. “Thanks to our precision-engineered method, the crane fell exactly where we intended. Because the port was non-operational, the crane was safely toppled without disruption or risk to the surrounding waterfront. Our thanks to the team at AMIX, who handled the site work, scrap processing and recycling – an excellent partnership from start to finish.”