Handling, Storage, Transportation, and Erection
Domain 6 covers what happens after the plant: lifting, storage, transport, and erection. Handling stresses can exceed design stresses, so the inspector verifies that supports and lift points match the design.
Lifting and storage
Lift only at the points shown on the approved shop drawings. Use spreader beams or slings that do not impose lateral bending. Store on a firm, drained surface with dunnage aligned vertically under the designed support points. Avoid twisting, and limit stack height to what the design and the units can tolerate.
Transportation
Brace units against lateral movement and impact. Verify support locations on the trailer match the design; check route clearances and permits for long or heavy members. Protect exposed strand and anchorage hardware.
Erection
Verify bearing pad type and position, seat elevation, and temporary bracing. Do not remove bracing until connections and grouting are complete. Confirm erection tolerances and the specified bearing condition.
Worked example
An 80 ft beam designed for supports 5 ft from each end is stacked with dunnage at midspan and quarter points. The actual support pattern changes the bending moment and can overstress the top flange. The inspector requires the stack to be reconfigured to the design support locations before accepting the storage arrangement.
Traps
- Lifting at midspan because it is convenient.
- Storing on uneven ground or with dunnage not aligned under the lift points.
- Stacking beyond the designed limit.
- Removing temporary bracing before final connections.
- Transporting without checking that trailer supports match the design support locations.