Decades of Expertise: J.V. Rigging’s Legacy of Safe and Efficient Machinery Moving

For nearly 40 years, J.V. Rigging has been providing machinery moving and rigging services to customers throughout the continental United States in a variety of industries. We also help customers meet their machine storage needs while offering equipment rental and lift consulting services.

At J.V. Rigging, our core strength lies in our people. Our team members are highly trained, certified professionals who prioritize safety and efficiency in every operation. We understand that moving and rigging heavy machinery requires meticulous planning and execution, and we take pride in our ability to handle even the most complex projects with confidence. We are more than just a service provider; we are a trusted partner, committed to building lasting relationships with our clients by consistently delivering exceptional results.

Industries We Take Care Of

Whether customers are in the Aerospace, Automotive, Energy, Food & Beverage, Machining, Medical Equipment, Plastics, Tool & Die or 3D Printing industry, one thing is certain: they get the best-trained and most safety-conscious crews in the business.

Certified. Credible. Competent.

The certifications that our fully bonded and insured crew members hold include:

  • OSHA-certified Lockout/Tagout Training
  • National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCO) Licenses
  • Industrial Forklift Training
  • Gantry Crane Training

With more than 150 years of combined experience, our crews stand above the rest because they are knowledgeable, hard-working and well-mannered. What’s more, they dress in company uniforms and present a professional appearance.

From our headquarters in New Kensington, PA, near Pittsburgh, we’re prepared to help you met your machinery moving and rigging, machine storage, equipment rental or lift consulting requirements.

Ask JV Rigging

Frequently asked questions regarding our industry and profession.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rigging & Machinery Moving

1What does the term "rigging" mean?

Rigging refers to the process of preparing and using equipment to move heavy objects, particularly in construction, manufacturing, and industrial settings. This includes the use of cranes, hoists, chains, slings, and other mechanical devices to lift, position, and secure machinery or other large items safely. Rigging is essential for ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of heavy and complex equipment. Skilled rigging professionals are trained to handle these tasks with precision, minimizing risk and ensuring that operations run smoothly.

2What is included in rigging hardware?

Rigging hardware comprises a variety of equipment used to lift, move, and secure heavy loads safely. This hardware is essential for ensuring the stability and safety of the lifting process. Key components of rigging hardware include:

  • Slings: These are made from materials like wire rope, chain, or synthetic webbing and are used to securely lift and move loads.

  • Shackles: U-shaped pieces of metal secured with a pin or bolt across the opening, shackles are used for connecting lifting equipment.

  • Hooks: These are used to grab and lift objects. Variations include grab hooks, slip hooks, and foundry hooks.

  • Turnbuckles: These devices are used to adjust the tension or length of ropes, cables, and other tensioning systems.

  • Eye Bolts and Eye Nuts: These provide an anchor point for lifting and are screwed into objects.

  • Pulleys and Sheaves: These are used to change the direction of a rope or cable and to gain mechanical advantage in lifting.

  • Chains: Heavy-duty chains are used for lifting and securing loads.

  • Hoists: These mechanical devices lift and lower heavy loads and come in different types like manual, electric, or pneumatic.

  • Load Binders: Used to secure loads, particularly in transport applications.

  • Snatch Blocks: A type of pulley with a side-opening for ease of use, often used in conjunction with winches and hoists.

This list includes just some of the key components commonly found in rigging hardware. Each piece plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of lifting operations. If you need more specific information or further details, let us know at JV Rigging!

3What are the 4 basic rules of rigging?
  1. Inspect Equipment Before Use: Always thoroughly inspect all rigging equipment before each use. Look for signs of wear, damage, or defects in items such as slings, hooks, chains, and shackles. Any compromised equipment should be replaced or repaired before proceeding to ensure safety.

  2. Know the Load and Equipment Limits: Understand the weight and characteristics of the load being lifted, and ensure all rigging equipment is rated for the task. Never exceed the working load limit (WLL) of any rigging gear. Proper load calculations and knowledge of the equipment's capacity are crucial to prevent accidents.

  3. Use Proper Rigging Techniques: Employ the correct rigging techniques for the specific type of lift. This includes using the right knots, hitches, and lifting methods. Ensuring proper balance and securing of the load to prevent shifting during the lift is essential. Following best practices and guidelines helps maintain control and safety throughout the process.

  4. Communicate Clearly and Maintain Awareness: Effective communication among all team members is vital for safe rigging operations. Use standard hand signals, radios, or other communication tools to ensure everyone is on the same page. Additionally, maintain constant awareness of your surroundings, including potential hazards, and ensure that the area is clear of unnecessary personnel.

These fundamental rules are designed to enhance safety and efficiency in rigging operations, helping prevent accidents and ensuring smooth, successful lifts. Let me JV Rigging help you if you need further adjustments or additional information!

4Can you explain what a millwright is & what is meant by millwright rigging??
  1. A millwright is a skilled tradesperson who installs, dismantles, maintains, repairs, and reassembles machinery in factories, power plants, and construction sites. They are responsible for ensuring that machinery is properly aligned, leveled, and functioning efficiently. Millwrights often work with heavy equipment and require precision and technical expertise to perform their tasks.

    Millwright rigging refers to the process of preparing and using equipment to move heavy machinery, which is a part of a millwright's job. This involves using cranes, hoists, chains, slings, and other mechanical devices to lift, position, and secure machinery safely. Millwrights are trained to handle these tasks with precision, ensuring that the machinery is moved without damage and is properly reassembled at its new location.

     
5What are the two types of riggers called?
  1. The two primary types of riggers are:

    1. Basic Riggers (Level 1 Riggers): These riggers are responsible for general rigging tasks, including the basic setup and operation of rigging equipment. They handle straightforward lifting and moving of loads, ensuring safety and efficiency. Basic Riggers are typically involved in less complex operations under the guidance of more experienced rigging professionals.

    2. Advanced Riggers (Level 2 Riggers): These riggers handle more complex and critical rigging tasks. They are trained and certified to plan and execute intricate lifting operations, including the use of specialized equipment and techniques. Advanced Riggers often lead projects and oversee the safety and success of the entire rigging operation.

    These classifications help ensure that rigging tasks are performed by individuals with the appropriate level of expertise and training. Let JV Rigging know if you need further details!

6What is the meaning of machinery moving?
  1. Machinery moving refers to the process of relocating heavy equipment and industrial machinery from one location to another. This specialized service involves several key steps to ensure that the machinery is transported safely and efficiently without damage. The process typically includes planning and preparation, dismantling equipment if necessary, lifting and securing the machinery, transporting it to the new location, and reassembling it.

    Professionals, like JV Rigging in Pittsburgh, PA., who perform machinery moving are skilled in handling a variety of equipment and use specialized tools such as cranes, forklifts, rigging hardware, and heavy-duty trailers. They follow precise protocols to protect the machinery and ensure that it is operational as quickly as possible after the move.

    Machinery moving is essential for businesses undergoing plant relocations, equipment upgrades, or expansions, as it ensures that valuable machinery is handled with the utmost care and expertise.

7Please explain what JV Rigging means by turnkey plant relocation.

Turnkey plant relocation is a comprehensive service that involves moving an entire industrial facility from one location to another with minimal disruption to operations. This full-service solution covers every aspect of the relocation process, from initial planning and disassembly to transportation, reassembly, and testing at the new site. The goal is to ensure a seamless transition, allowing the facility to resume operations quickly and efficiently.

8With regards to heavy hauling, what is defined as a "heavy load?"

In the context of heavy hauling, a load is generally considered "heavy hauling" when it exceeds 80,000 pounds (approximately 36,287 kilograms). Loads in this category often require specialized equipment, permits, and routing to ensure safe transportation.

9Can you explain what your Gantry cranes are and what they do?

A gantry crane is a type of overhead crane that consists of a bridge supported by freestanding legs, allowing it to straddle an object or workspace. These cranes can be either stationary or mobile, with the latter moving on wheels or along a track. Gantry cranes are used in various settings, including warehouses, shipyards, and construction sites, to lift and move heavy loads efficiently. They come in different types, such as full gantry cranes, which run on rails, and semi-gantry cranes, which have one leg on wheels and the other on a runway system.