Sheffield Forgemasters has secured a multimillion-pound deal with GH Cranes to provide overhead cranes for a new machining facility that will support the company’s growing defence-sector output, including contributions to the AUKUS defence pact.
The agreement, which follows a competitive tender process, will see GH Cranes supply 11 overhead cranes and a 400-ton lifting beam for Sheffield Forgemasters’ forthcoming 35,000m² machine shop at its Brightside Lane site.
The cranes, which will have lifting capacities ranging from 40 tons to 250 tons, are key to the company’s expansion plans. They will be used to support 17 machines, including ultra-large Vertical Turning Lathes. GH Cranes emerged as the preferred bidder, outperforming four other major manufacturers, thanks to its 65 years of experience and its technical expertise in delivering cost-effective solutions.
Craig Fisher, programmes director, Sheffield Forgemasters, described the tender process as highly competitive but praised GH Cranes for offering the best value for money and the most effective technical solutions. The cranes will include two 150/40-ton units, four 200/40-ton service cranes, and five 250/50-ton units, along with a tandem lifting beam capable of handling loads up to 400 tons, with a span of up to 35 metres.
The cranes will be built at GH Cranes’ manufacturing facility in Northern Spain, with the first batch scheduled to arrive at Sheffield Forgemasters in 2026.
