Located within Corona Park in New York, the World’s Fair Observation Towers are three concrete structures originally constructed in 1962 for the iconic New York World’s Fair held in 1964.
Standing at 26, 49, and 69 metres, the towers were utilised as observation platforms and refreshment centres for visiting dignitaries attending the fair.
The towers were deemed too expensive to remove after the festival and have deteriorated since. However significant funding has been recently received for a complete restoration and further upgrades consisting of new architectural lighting and waterproofing for future preservation.
Alimak delivered a Scando 650 FC 32/39 construction hoist to assist in the restoration of the tallest of the three towers across a span of three years. With a lifting height of 58 meters and a total of three landings, the Alimak Scando 650 construction hoist can carry a capacity of 3,200 kg at a speed of 54 meters per minute.
The Alimak Scando 650 provided an attractive vertical access solution for the project, designed for the efficient transportation of passengers and materials for enhanced productivity on construction sites. Moreover, Alimak’s team of application and design engineers were able to design a vertical access system that reduced loads imposed on the structure by having the Mod 5 rack and pinion located in the centre of the mast tower. Standard features of the range include easy floor level programming, intelligent control, and superior ride comfort.
What’s more, Alimak were able to work in conjunction with the sites temporary scaffolding structure. The scaffold was utilised to transport personnel and goods, enhancing efficiency to erect the hoist by providing a straight guide.
Hoist Details
Location: New York State Pavilion, Queens, NY, USA
Application: Observation tower
Industry: Construction
Hoist model: Alimak Scando 650 FC 32/39 I
Capacity: 3,200 kg (7,100 lbs)
Hoist car size (W x L x H): 1.5 x 3.9 x 2.3 m (4’-11” x 12’-9” x 7’-6”)
Speed: 54 m/min. (177 fpm)
Lifting height: 58 m (190’)
No. of landings: 3