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How a 3 Ton Dual Synchronized Scissor Lift Platform Improved Steel Structure Assembly in Singapore

Project Overview

PERFAB ENGINEERING PTE LTD required a synchronized lifting solution for handling long-span steel structures, heavy pipe bundles, and prefabricated assemblies at a working height of 4 meters. Traditional multi-point lifting methods introduced risks of uneven elevation, structural tilting, and load instability, particularly when handling large welded components with extended spans.

To address these challenges, Gradin engineered a customized Twin Synchronous Mobile Scissor Lift System (Model SJG3.0-4.0). The system consists of a centralized control cabinet, a hydraulic power unit, and two independently operated 3000kg scissor lift platforms, providing a combined lifting capacity of 6000kg.

A hydraulic synchronization motor and precision flow-divider valves maintain accurate platform synchronization throughout the lifting cycle, significantly reducing the risk of load distortion, platform misalignment, and unsafe lifting conditions. This allows operators to position large steel assemblies with greater confidence and efficiency during welding and fabrication operations.

To maximize flexibility inside the workshop, each platform is equipped with four 5-inch heavy-duty omnidirectional casters for easy movement and positioning. Once aligned, integrated manual outriggers lift the wheels off the ground and establish a rigid, non-slip working base.

For long-term durability, the scissor mechanisms are manufactured from 25 × 140mm high-strength steel flats supplied by Laiwu Steel, while the platform frames utilize 16# channel steel construction. Critical pivot points incorporate HA self-lubricating composite bushings (SF-1 X), reducing wear and supporting reliable performance under frequent lifting cycles.

To comply with Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements, the system successfully completed 125% proof-load testing, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and supporting engineering verification procedures. The project was delivered with the required compliance documentation and commissioned for safe operation within the customer’s steel fabrication facility.

Challenge & Solution

Challenge

Before implementing the synchronized lifting system, the customer faced several operational and engineering challenges during the assembly of long-span steel structures and heavy fabrication components.

Synchronization Accuracy for Long-Span Assemblies

When lifting steel assemblies up to 6 meters in length, even a height difference exceeding 20mm between support points could introduce torsional stress into the structure. This increased the risk of alignment errors, weld quality issues, additional rework, and significant safety concerns during assembly operations.

Platform Stability During Structural Alignment

Assembly personnel frequently used chain hoists, alignment tools, and manual pulling equipment while working on elevated platforms. Conventional mobile lifts relying solely on wheel brakes could shift under lateral loading forces, affecting positioning accuracy and creating safety risks for operators.

Limited Workshop Space

The customer’s workshop layout provided very limited operating space. Large forklifts and boom lifts could not maneuver efficiently between production stations. The lifting solution therefore needed to operate within a compact footprint of only 2,100 × 850 mm while maintaining sufficient load capacity and stability.

High-Frequency Duty Cycle Requirements

The production process required more than 40 lifting cycles per day. Conventional steel-on-steel pivot systems often experienced accelerated wear under continuous heavy loading, leading to increased platform movement, higher maintenance requirements, and reduced assembly accuracy over time.

Compliance with Singapore MOM Standards

As the equipment would be used in an industrial production environment in Singapore, compliance with Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements was mandatory. The project required enhanced safety factors, hydraulic burst protection, engineering verification calculations, and supporting FEA documentation, exceeding the capability of conventional hydraulic lift platforms.

Solution

To address the synchronization, stability, durability, and regulatory challenges faced by PERFAB ENGINEERING PTE LTD, Gradin developed a custom Twin Synchronized Mobile Scissor Lift System specifically designed for heavy steel fabrication operations in Singapore.

Precision Hydraulic Synchronization System

To eliminate lifting deviation between support points, the system incorporates a centralized hydraulic power station powered by a 3kW, 415V, 50Hz motor and high-pressure gear pump. A hydraulic synchronization motor and flow-divider system ensure balanced oil distribution to both SJG3.0-4.0 lifting platforms, maintaining millimeter-level synchronization while handling loads of up to 6000kg.

The twin-cylinder lifting mechanism utilizes Φ80mm hydraulic cylinders equipped with imported NOK sealing components, helping minimize internal leakage, maintain stable hydraulic pressure, and reduce height drift during elevated operation.

Mobile Design with Rigid Positioning Capability

To improve flexibility inside the fabrication workshop, each platform is fitted with four 5-inch heavy-duty polyurethane casters, allowing operators to reposition and align the platforms efficiently.

Once positioned, integrated mechanical leveling outriggers raise the wheels off the floor and establish a rigid working base. This prevents platform movement during structural alignment, welding, and assembly operations, significantly improving positioning stability and operator safety.

Heavy-Duty Structure for High-Cycle Operation

To withstand more than 40 lifting cycles per day, the scissor mechanisms are fabricated from 25 × 140mm high-strength steel flats, while the platform frames utilize 16# channel steel construction.

Critical pivot points are fitted with HA SF-1 X self-lubricating composite bushings, reducing friction, minimizing wear, and maintaining long-term structural stability under continuous heavy-duty operation.

MOM-Compliant Safety Protection System

To satisfy Singapore MOM requirements, multiple layers of mechanical and hydraulic protection were incorporated into the design.

Each hydraulic cylinder is equipped with an integrated burst protection valve that automatically blocks oil return flow in the event of hydraulic hose failure, preventing uncontrolled platform descent.

The electrical control system incorporates Schneider and Omron phase-loss and phase-imbalance protection devices to safeguard the motor and electrical components. An integrated hydraulic overload protection valve automatically bypasses excess pressure when overload conditions occur, ensuring safe and reliable operation throughout the lifting process.

Technical Specifications

Parameter Specification
Project Location Singapore
Customer PERFAB ENGINEERING PTE LTD
System Model SJG3.0-4.0 Twin Synchronous Lift System
Total Lifting Capacity 6,000 kg
Capacity per Platform 3,000 kg
Maximum Lifting Height 4,000 mm
Lifting Speed 2.0 – 3.0 m/min
Platform Size 2,000 × 750 mm
Minimum Installed Footprint 2,100 × 850 mm
Synchronization System Hydraulic Flow Divider Motor
Hydraulic Power Unit 3.0 kW / 415V / 50Hz
Scissor Structure Single-Span Three-Stage Design
Structural Material Q235B Steel with 16# Channel Frame
Mobility System 5-inch Heavy-Duty Polyurethane Casters
Stabilization System Mechanical Leveling Outriggers
Safety Protection Burst Valves, Overload Protection, Phase-Loss Protection
Compliance Testing 125% Proof Load Test & FAT
Regulatory Compliance Singapore MOM Requirements
Surface Finish Shot Blasting + Industrial Baking Paint
Designed Service Life Up to 15 Years Under Proper Maintenance

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