Heavy lifting systems

Heavy Lifting Systems: Smart, precise and sustainable movement of heavy structures

VSL’s Heavy Lifting Systems offer safe, accurate, and cost-efficient solutions to lift, slide, lower, or tilt heavy structures. Our strand jacking and skidding systems are engineered for precision and adaptability across bridges, buildings, industrial facilities, and offshore platforms.

Why choose VSL heavy lifting solutions?

  • Proven technology: Used on iconic projects like the Burj Khalifa and the Maracanã Stadium
  • Custom-engineered: Designed to match each project’s geometry and constraints
  • Safe & controlled: Fail-safe strand jacking and synchronized multi-point control
  • Cost-effective: Reduced crane dependency, fewer temporary structures
  • Low environmental impact: Compact equipment, low energy use, biodegradable fluids
Skid beams used for the dismantling and skidding of an offshore oil and gas platform in the North Sea.

Applications

  • Bridges: Span launching, arch erection, deck sliding
  • Buildings & Stadiums: Roof lifting, structural positioning
  • Industry & Energy: Boiler installation, tank lifting, turbine handling
  • Offshore & Marine: Caisson launching, platform substructure lowering
  • Special Projects: Tunnel boxes, large equipment replacement, high-rise construction

Design and performance

SystemDescriptionKey Features
Strand Jacking SystemsCore of VSL’s lifting technology, enabling controlled, millimeter-accurate vertical or horizontal movement.• Lifting capacity up to 5,700 kN per unit 
• Up to 120 synchronized lifting points 
• Ideal for confined or high-rise environments
Hydraulic Skidding SystemsFor long-distance horizontal movement of extremely heavy loads on ground or decks.• Skid shoes up to 9,900 kN
• Skid tracks adaptable to curved paths
 • Minimal surface preparation required
Modular Equipment & AccessoriesComplementary equipment for tailored lifting operations.• Lifting towers & gantries 
• Turntables & lowering devices 
• Temporary supports
 • Monitoring & control systems

End-to-end services

VSL’s heavy lifting services are designed to support every stage of your project, from early design to on-site execution and beyond. They are available as full-service package or tailored to your needs (equipment rental, technical support only, etc.)

  • Feasibility & Method Engineering
  • Custom Design & Equipment Selection
  • Site Preparation & Installation
  • Operation & Execution
  • Post-Lifting Services

Frequently asked questions about VSL heavy lifting systems

Up to 5,700kN per unit, scalable with multi-point configurations.

Yes. Our systems are modular and adaptable, ideal for space-constrained or complex sites.

Yes. We offer tailored service levels—from consulting to execution.

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Have a structure to lift? Let’s make it happen.

Our experts are ready to support your project, from design to execution. Contact us to discuss your lifting needs.