The installation, on pedestals on the north side of the wheel, was carried out over a five-day period in mid-March, with all work completed during overnight operations while the London Eye remained fully operational. The new cranes replace the original units that had been in operation since the attraction opened in 2000.
The cranes were installed in partnership with Nick Sampson Mechanical Engineering Services. The project followed nearly a year of planning and was executed using a Liebherr mobile crane. During one of the most technically demanding stages, the crane was carefully manoeuvred through the wheel’s spokes within extremely tight tolerances, while the structure was slowly rotated into position, requiring close coordination across all teams.
The cranes will play a central role in supporting engineering activity across the structure, from lifting and positioning heavy components to assisting with capsule maintenance and work on mechanical and electrical systems. Because much of this work is carried out at height and within restricted spaces, these cranes provide a necessary alternative to traditional access methods.
The cranes are Hiab eX.232 HiPro E-5 models, each fitted with personnel baskets and built to meet EN 280 standards for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP). Equipped with Hiab’s SPACEevo control system, electro-hydraulic technology and an Olsbergs V200 valve, they deliver precise, responsive performance. Each unit also includes a 2t hoist and an interlock system that prevents the wheel from rotating unless the cranes are safely stowed.
John Abbott, sales executive at Hiab said, “The Hiab eX.232 HiPro E-5 provides a fully certified MEWP solution, combining advanced control systems with built-in redundancy. This enables smooth, coordinated operation and gives engineers a reliable system to carry out their work with confidence.”
Paul Dalton, head of technical services at The London Eye, said, “Hiab was selected for its reputation for reliability, engineering quality and advanced safety features. The cranes give our engineers the flexibility and control needed to maintain the structure and ensure a world-class experience for visitors.”
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