How Concrete Precast Panels are Lifted and Installed

Precast concrete panels are a mainstay in modern construction. They provide strength, durability, and speed, making them a preferred choice for everything from commercial builds to residential developments. While the panels themselves are manufactured off-site, the real precision work begins when they arrive on site and need to be lifted into place. At Sventek Cranes & Rigging, this is where our specialist team steps in.

Preparing for the lift

Every panel installation starts with careful planning. Before a crane even sets foot on site, our crew assesses access, ground stability, panel dimensions, and lifting points. We also map out the lift path to ensure the panels can be manoeuvred safely into their final position without obstruction.

Site preparation includes marking out footings and drilling holes for dowel bars where required. Chem-setting anchors are often used to provide secure connections, while lifting inserts are double-checked to make sure they are ready for rigging. This groundwork is critical – it sets the stage for a safe and efficient installation.

Lifting into position

With planning complete, the crane and rigging team take over. Precast concrete panels can weigh anywhere from a few tonnes to well over 20 tonnes, so having the right crane is essential. Sventek’s fleet ranges from compact crawler cranes for tight sites through to 120-tonne Liebherr mobile cranes for heavy-duty lifts.

Using certified rigging gear, the panel is carefully hooked up and lifted from the delivery truck. Communication is constant between the crane operator and riggers on the ground – the panel is guided slowly into place, avoiding sudden movements to reduce stress on the concrete and ensure pinpoint accuracy.

Securing the panels

Once in position, the panel is braced and temporarily supported while connections are finalised. This may involve welding fish plates, corner brackets, or securing dowel bars depending on the structural design. These steps tie the panel into the building’s framework, ensuring long-term stability. Only when all bracing and fixings are confirmed does the crew move on to the next panel.

Why experience matters

Lifting precast panels is not simply a matter of operating a crane – it’s a highly coordinated process that demands skill, teamwork, and attention to detail. A small mistake can delay a project or create costly safety risks... that’s why experienced operators and riggers make all the difference.

At Sventek Cranes & Rigging, we’ve been trusted to deliver panel lifts for projects across Melbourne, from large-scale industrial developments to detailed residential work. Our clients rely on us because we combine technical knowledge with the right equipment to get the job done properly – the first time.

Partner with Sventek Cranes & Rigging

If your next project involves precast concrete panel lifting and installation, talk to the experts. Our team provides end-to-end support; from planning and site preparation through to lifting, bracing, and securing. With a modern fleet and decades of hands-on experience, we’ll help you complete your project safely, efficiently, and on schedule.