Large technology object handling, storage, transport and exhibition installation G. Klebba Australian War Memorial Abstract: This paper describes the development of large technology object handling, storage, transport and exhibition installation techniques at the Australian War Memorial over the past eleven years. It covers the establishment of a specialist Large Technology Object (LTO) Team, their training, the skills and experience that team members have gained while working on various projects and the processes and procedures that are used to plan, prepare and execute an LTO operation. Safety aspects of LTO operations and the management of objects that have been subdivided both physically and on a computer data base are also discussed. Introduction Since the opening of the Australian War Memorial building in Canberra in 1941, Large Technology Objects have been used to illustrate many themes/displays within and outside the museum. The term “Large Technology Object” (LTO), as it applies to the Australian War Memorial collection, can be defined as any technology object that requires two or more persons, and/or mechanised equipment, to handle or move it. Examples of types of LTOs are wheeled vehicles, artillery pieces, tracked vehicles (such as tanks), aircraft and large ship’s parts, including items such as propellers and missile launchers. Until recently large technology installations have mainly used single level display techniques, for example items placed on the floors of galleries. In 1996 the Australian War Memorial embarked upon a major redevelopment program of its galleries, with a fresh approach to the installation and display of LTOs. Objects in the new exhibitions were placed on columns or plinths or suspended from ceilings, as well as being positioned on gallery floors. This meant that many object installations were far more complex and sophisticated than before, and required the development of new handling, transport and installation techniques. In addition to the redevelopment program in the existing galleries, a large technology exhibition hall (ANZAC Hall) was constructed on the Memorial site during 2001, providing another 3000m2 of display space. In preparation for the considerable increase in LTO activities, the Memorial increased the density and mobility of storage facilities within its warehouses. This again meant that new handling methods had to be devised, using equipment such as cranes, high lift forklifts, universal mobile handling frames and trolleys, and tow tractors. Also, given the specialised nature of many of the LTO installation, storage and handling operations and the sheer volume of objects required for gallery re-development, ANZAC Hall and other Memorial activities, a specialist LTO handling and movement team of four people was created within the Registration Section at the Memorial. The LTO Team

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The main role of the LTO Team is to develop, plan and execute safe LTO handling, storage, transport and installation operations. The team also provides the Memorial’s Gallery Development section with advice on gallery and building design and other LTO-related issues, and provides advice and support for organisers of travelling exhibitions and special events, such as “Open Days” or off-site temporary displays. This is done with input and assistance from many internal and external sources, including conservators, curators, in-house and contract engineers and heavy vehicle, crane and rigging suppliers. During major activities it is common for the LTO Team to expand to up to 12 people and to draw on expertise from the Memorial’s large technology conservation team and curatorial staff. With the establishment of the LTO Team, it was important for team members to gain the necessary skills and qualifications to safely achieve the project outcomes. This was done by assessing the handling tasks needed to achieve the outcomes, researching handling methods at other relevant facilities and developing a training program for team members. Major elements of the program included formal training and qualifications in operation of equipment such as cranes, forklifts, elevated work platforms and heavy vehicles. It became apparent early on that many of the relevant courses available did not specifically target the needs of LTO operations in a museum-based environment and that collections, facilities, activities and proposed display methods in other institutions were often very different to the Memorial’s. We therefore developed most of the complex handling methods in-house, based on information gathered from research, consultation with stakeholders and experienced practitioners and formal training programs. Over the past eight years the LTO Team has gained experience, knowledge and skills through considerable involvement in the following major projects:

• Demount of LTOs from Memorial galleries prior to installation of new exhibitions. Objects included Spitfire and Kittyhawk aircraft, a Messerschmitt Me 262 aircraft fuselage, the “G for George” Lancaster bomber, four First World War bi-planes, an HMAS Australia gun breech mechanism, and numerous artillery pieces.

• Installation of LTOs in the Second World War gallery including a Spitfire aircraft, a V1 rocket, a Bren Gun carrier, a Stuart tank turret, a Japanese midget submarine tail section, two 25-pounder guns, an Oerlikon gun, a 2-pounder gun and the Kuching memorial stone.

• The Ascot boat installation in the Orientation Gallery. • Installation of LTOs in the Vietnam and Korean War exhibitions including a

Sioux helicopter, a M113 fire-support vehicle, a Bofors anti-aircraft gun mount and a L5 howitzer.

• The “Air Power in the Pacific” installation including Mosquito, Zero, Kittyhawk, Wirraway, Mustang and Sea Fury aircraft, and a Type 88 anti-aircraft gun.

• Installation and demount of the “Forging the Nation” travelling exhibition at the Melbourne Museum, which featured a DH9 bi-plane, a Renault FT17 tank and two First World War field artillery pieces.

• The ANZAC Hall LTO installation including Meteor, Deperdussin, Hudson and Messerschmitt 163 aircraft, an Iroquois helicopter, a Centurion tank, an M2A2 howitzer, a Japanese midget submarine, an HMAS Sydney gun,

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an SMS Emden gun, a MK IV female tank, and several wheeled vehicles and artillery pieces.

• The Beaufort aircraft installation in ANZAC Hall. • The “Wings, Wheels and Tracks” display demount from ANZAC Hall

including Beaufort, Hudson and Messerschmitt 163 aircraft, an Iroquois helicopter, a Centurion tank and an M2A2 howitzer.

• The “Striking by Night” display installation including the “G for George” Lancaster bomber, Messerschmitt Bf109, Me262 and Me163 aircraft, a Flak 36 88 mm anti-aircraft gun and a David Brown airfield tractor.

• The Hunslet steam locomotive installation in ANZAC Hall. Planning and preparation Storage and handling To properly manage an LTO, the following questions need to be answered:

- How long will the object be in the possession or care of the institution, and what is the institution’s legal responsibility for the object – ownership? loan? storing an object for another institution? What is expected of the institution in caring for this object?

- Is the item hazardous, or does it contain hazards such as asbestos or radioactive material? What are the legal requirements that govern the storage and handling of hazardous materials? This may have considerable cost implications.

- Does the object have any special legal requirements regarding its storage or handling? (For example, prohibited or controlled articles such as firearms.)

- Will the object be secure in storage, and who will have access to the object? - Is the object structurally sound and stable? Are additional support structures

required to prevent the object becoming physically unstable? - What are the dimensions of the object (length, width, height, weight)? - How often will you need to access the object for cleaning, surveying,

temporary display or stocktaking? - Is there enough space to accommodate the object? Can it be safely stored

using a vertical storage system? - Does the item require specific environmental conditions while in storage, such

as an air conditioned warehouse? - Is special equipment needed to handle the object e.g., cranes or large forklifts? - How can the item be handled without damage? What are the structurally sound

lifting points, centre of gravity, roll centre? Is there any previous damage, or repairs to the object, which could affect handling and storage methods?

- What are the personnel requirements for handling the object? How may people are required and do they need any special training or qualifications, e.g., tank driver?

- Can the object be safely moved using its own motive power? - How much time is required to prepare the item for storage? - What is the estimated dollar cost to manage the object, and are there sufficient

funds available? These questions should be answered in consultation with conservators, curators, engineers and relevant contractors. It is important to find out as much as possible

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about the object in order to develop a broad storage and handling plan and to minimise the possibility of unplanned handling incidents. For many years Memorial LTO storage was fairly static, with objects usually placed directly on floors, or on basic stands for support. With the change of LTO activity levels at the Memorial, however, it was recognised that LTO storage spaces needed to be more fluid, with store layouts able to be altered easily and quickly. Today object movements occur on an almost daily basis to facilitate acquisitions, disposals, conservation, exhibition preparation, object/display trial assembly, maintenance and provision of operating objects for special events. Alongside increased space and staff the key strategy used to achieve the increased flexibility and speed was the purchase of high quality equipment which could be used in flexible and adaptive ways. In 1993 the Memorial’s Treloar Technology Centre was completed at Mitchell, adding a purpose built 4000m2 LTO storage and conservation facility to the 5000 m2 LTO storage already there. In planning the new storage facility, versatility and collection mobility were recognised as an important part of LTO management. One of the main features of the new building was a 16-tonne overhead gantry crane which operates the full length of the warehouse (on the eastern half), covering 2000m2 of floor space, including the LTO Conservation Workshop. The gantry crane allows aisles and space between objects to be minimised, as objects can be moved vertically in and out of their storage location. The crane also makes it possible to change the storage layout in a relatively short period of time. For areas not covered by the crane, mobile universal trolleys and handling systems were created using modular components which could be assembled in a number of different configurations. In most cases there are a number of storage solutions available to the collection managers, with the best not necessarily being the cheapest in the short term. With this in mind “multi fit” storage systems were developed, applicable to a general category of object but able to be adjusted to fit a specific example. For instance, the Memorial’s single engine mono plane aircraft fuselages are typically stored on a standard length heavy duty fuselage trolley, which is fitted with custom brackets specific to that aircraft. Also included on the trolleys are features to accommodate different handling requirements, including towing eyes for coupling to a tow tractor, crane lifting points, adjustable forklift tine tubes (for 2.5-tonne and 12-tonne capacity forklift) and manual push tubes. The advantages of this system are:

- Many types of aircraft and other objects can be fitted to a standard fuselage trolley.

- Most objects are able to be supported at their designated handling points or other high strength points such as wing mounts, engine mounts or propeller shafts.

- Once the object is fitted to the trolley it is should not be necessary to touch the object itself during future moves, which considerably reduces the risk of damage.

- Trolleys can be handled by forklifts and cranes, towed by tow tractors or manually pushed.

- Because objects usually do not usually protrude beyond trolley footprints, the trolley frame provides a barrier or shield around the item.

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- Objects fitted to trolleys can be accommodated in vertical storage systems, therefore saving floor space.

- Objects can be easily moved in case of disaster. - The object is secured to a stable platform for general handling, storage and

transport. - Trolleys can be recycled to new objects with minimal cost and work.

Of course, there are many objects that do not fall into a particular category and require custom storage/handling solutions. In these cases, the basic planning and design process is the same as for “multi fit” units. Consideration is given to the possibility of the handling frame or equipment being modified and reused for purposes other than originally intended. Transport Most of the storage and handling principles discussed above also apply to transport of LTOs, with some major additional factors to be taken into consideration. Instead of an object being static and in a controlled environment, during transport the object has many dynamic forces acting on it and may be at the mercy of external conditions. So objects must be well secured, and wherever possible protected by transporting them in enclosed containers or vehicles such as pantechnicons or curtain sided trucks, to minimise the risk of damage to the object as a result of being exposed to the elements, road debris etc. Where it is not possible to enclose an object, environmental conditions and aerodynamic forces need to be carefully considered. If possible, objects should always travel facing the direction they were intended to travel in, otherwise the risk of damage can be greatly increased due to wind resistance and aerodynamic forces. This applies particularly to aircraft components. Also the speed at which the item is transported becomes a crucial factor when using an open vehicle. It is therefore important to monitor and control speed from inside the transport vehicle by means of a team member riding in the vehicle, and outside the transporter in the form of an escort vehicle. Both transporter and escort should be in constant radio communication with each other. When planning a major transport operation at the Memorial the following details and processes are included (in addition to handling protocols);

- The object is carefully and accurately measured, recording maximum dimensions of the object in its transport configuration (for example disassembled and mounted on a trolley or handling frame), including total weight of the object and trolley and any extra fittings.

- Centre of gravity and roll centre of the object is determined (on a trolley, if applicable).

- A suitable type of transport vehicle is selected. - Any hazardous materials on or in the object are identified, such as radioactive

instruments or items containing asbestos. State or Federal legislation is applied to the transport of hazardous materials and the transport operator is supplied with the appropriate details in accordance with the legislation.

- Exact handling methods (and procedures) for loading and unloading are worked out and recorded, for example use of cranes or forklifts.

- The number of personnel and special skills that are required for the job are listed, including who is needed where and at what time.

- All equipment required for the task is listed, as well as where it is needed and at what time.

- The exact pickup and delivery point is determined.

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- One designated person checks the entire object to make sure that all loose parts are either secured or removed to be transported separately.

- A detailed schedule for the move is created, and a copy supplied to all involved in the operation.

- Weather forecasts are checked on a regular basis for jobs where objects are exposed to the elements.

- A plan of action in case of adverse weather conditions is discussed before the move.

- Vehicles and specialised equipment are booked and confirmed well in advance. Specialist escort vehicles, permits and Police escorts are usually organised by the transport vehicle supplier, as they are most familiar with the rules and regulations regarding overdimensional transport. All bookings are checked again, usually a few days before the job.

- A team briefing is conducted by the team leader prior to the job, and involves all team members, and possibly transport and other contractors. The briefing covers details of the job, and identifies roles and responsibilities.

- Specialised verbal and hand communication systems have been developed within the team, to be used when working in close proximity to other objects or structures. Often those operating object handling equipment (such as cranes or tow tractors) or those co-ordinating the job cannot see the entire object, so our system is able to give the operator and/or team leader a mental picture of the object and its proximity to obstacles or hazards. Spotters are placed at the object extremities to convey this information.

- When ever possible objects are fitted to handling / storage / transport frames or trolleys so we are able to handle the frame rather than the object. The trolley or frame is in turn secured to the transport vehicle.

- A team member always travels with fragile objects as a courier. This person should have detailed knowledge of the object they are escorting.

- Details of the transport and handling are recorded, photographed, drawn and filed for future reference.

Exhibition Installation The process of planning for an LTO exhibition installation can vary greatly. In simple cases, a robust single piece object such as a small wheeled vehicle or small artillery piece can be positioned in the exhibition space and placed on axle stands on the floor without the need to move other items or structures, and with minimal planning and resources. At the other extreme an object installation may take months, even years to plan, test and finally implement. In all cases meticulous attention to detail is required for the installation operation to be a success. When working to a tight installation deadline there is usually no time available to develop plan B if you suddenly discover that plan A will not work when it is put to the test for the first time in the exhibition space. To avoid this problem with more complex installations we conduct a full trial run of the installation at the Memorial’s Treloar annex, with the dimensions of the space marked out in the warehouse and using all the equipment that will be used in the final installation. This was done for the Messerschmitt Bf109 aircraft installation in the “Air War Europe” exhibition in ANZAC Hall, which required the aircraft to be installed on a 4.5m pole in a constrained and oddly-angled space. Another example of this is the Mosquito aircraft installed in the Memorial’s aircraft hall. The aircraft was test assembled at the

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Memorial’s Treloar conservation and storage facilities after major conservation work, then dismantled and transported to the Memorial where it was re-assembled and jacked to a height of 3.5 metres. Dedicated supports were then built under the aircraft, it was lowered onto its new support structure, a mezzanine floor built and other aircraft installed under it and around it. The basic planning guidelines that the LTO team works to during major LTO installations are;

- The exhibition planning group is identified, consisting of designers, external contractors, engineers, conservation, curators, gallery development staff, and registration.

- Regular meetings of the whole exhibition planning group are scheduled. Objects are proposed (usually by curators) for exhibition and assessed by the exhibition planning group for their suitability.

- Any hazards present on or in the objects are identified. The objects undergo careful examination by the LTO team, conservation and engineering personnel to establish the structural integrity of the item. If necessary, external expertise is sought to achieve this and non-destructive investigation (NDI) such as dye penetrant inspection and eddy current testing may be required.

- Objects are accurately measured for their display configuration (this may involve only part of the object going on display, or the object being displayed at a particular angle or with movable parts at specific angles). These measurements are double checked and then provided to the exhibition designers.

- The designated object handling points for the display are established based on curatorial and conservation advice, and items are accurately weighed using pallet scales (up to 1,000kg), cattle scales (up to 2,000kg) or a crane load cell. Weight distribution, roll centre and centre of gravity are documented. Other alternative handling points may also be identified at this stage. Object weights are provided to the exhibition designers and engineers.

- An exhibition design is created by the designers, and reviewed by LTO storage and handling personnel on the team to assess access routes, support suitability and proposed installation methods. Physical access to the exhibition site is checked, also whether objects will actually fit into the display space.

- An initial plan stating methods, costs and resources required for handling, transport and installation of LTOs is developed by the LTO team and is provided to the exhibition planning group.

- Each object is assessed by the LTO Team and detailed LTO handling , transport and installation plans are created by the LTO team. These plans are distributed for comment and a draft LTO installation program is drawn up in consultation with the exhibition planning group;

- The final cost estimate for the LTO handling, transport and installation is calculated.

- Object supports are fabricated by contract engineers and trial fitted to objects. - A final detailed schedule of the object installation is completed by the LTO

team. This is the document used on the day. - Vehicles, cranes and other equipment are organised well in advance of each

installation job, particularly if the equipment required is specialised or heavily booked.

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- All equipment required for each job is listed, assembled and inspected. Any new equipment required is ordered and checked or tested following delivery.

- Safety aspects of the installation are discussed by the LTO team and safety notes are written as required.

- An LTO team briefing is held, where the task and safety issues are covered in detail.

- Equipment bookings are confirmed usually a few days before each job. - The installation is carried out in accordance to the schedule where possible. - Records are made of the installation. - Post installation discussion and debrief is held by the LTO team.

Safety aspects of LTO operations General Operations Safety Safety is the most important element of any operation and is a major consideration in the planning process;

- Communication systems within the team may include verbal, whistle and hand signals. Signals are used to relay instructions to an equipment operator (for example in a crane or forklift) and also to indicate distances between objects and structures or other objects etc. When operating in confined spaces and/or with large objects the team may use spotters to watch for obstacles. The team should aim to create a continuous and accurate picture of the object and its proximity to obstacles. They should keep calling to each other constantly using agreed terms.

- Calculations used for crane operations and the like are checked prior to the task.

- Objects are lifted from their designated lifting points or, if this is not possible, from main structural elements such as axles or chassis on vehicles and from main wing spars or engine mounts on aircraft. When craning an object such as a badly damaged aircraft fuselage, slings are usually placed under the object in a basket type arrangement to prevent it falling.

- Where possible, mechanical back up systems are used when handling LTOs. For example, if an aircraft is being lifted with jacks during an installation, wing trestles would be used to follow it up to display height. In the unlikely event of a jack failure the trestles should be able to support the aircraft until the failure can be rectified.

- All handling and personal safety equipment is regularly inspected according to legal requirements and well maintained.

- During any handling operation, escape routes are identified for all involved in the job and would be used in the event of loss of control of the object, or a major equipment or object failure.

- Work site security must be maintained to ensure the safety of the LTO team and others. During major tasks at the Memorial, barriers and warning signs are set up and site security personnel are provided by the Memorial’s security section.

- Team members maintain an appropriate level of fitness required for LTO operations, as some jobs require many hours of physical exertion and concentration.

- Regular breaks are factored into major operation scheduling to help the team stay alert and focused on the job at all times. These breaks are particularly

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important at night when most of the very large object transport operations are conducted.

In preparing for a major LTO operation, the LTO team leader may create three formal documents to identify and record procedural safety issues. These are the method statement, safety notes and LTO team schedule. Method Statement The method statement includes object specifications and specific handling and installation methods to be used. It also notes any particular procedural and safety issues that would not normally be covered by standard equipment operating or object handling procedures. The statement may be developed from existing handling procedures for the object, with current safe work practices incorporated into the plan. Alternatively, if after scrutinising the existing handling procedures, they are found to be unsuitable for safety or practical reasons, new procedures are developed. If possible, new procedures would utilise existing Memorial equipment that may be adapted or modified to suit the task. A copy of the installation (and handling) method statement for the Hunslet steam locomotive is attached (Attachment A). Safety Notes These specifically target safety issues relating to the job, or a part of the job. For example, before commencing a major task such as lifting an aircraft onto a column for display several metres above the exhibition gallery floor, emergency escape procedures and possible distractions from media presence such as camera flashes and lights might be identified as issues. A copy of the safety notes for transport of “G for George” Lancaster components from the Treloar annex to ANZAC Hall is attached (Attachment B). LTO Team Schedule The schedule is used as a detailed guide for the individual tasks of a major project. This includes timing and location of activities, personnel involved, major equipment required, a brief description of methods used and specific safety notes regarding object handling or transport. Also, the LTO team may identify opportunities during an activity that could be of interest to the media, in consultation with the Memorial’s marketing and public affairs section. These opportunities would be included in the schedule as a controlled event. The media are briefed on worksite safety and access limitations before the event takes place. Team Briefing Before any major operation is conduced, an LTO team briefing is called by the team leader. This covers all aspects of the job in detail including: roles and responsibilities of those involved in the task, the process to be followed in order to complete the job, safety issues and dangers, possible Media positions, “no go” areas, emergency evacuation procedures in the event of a major failure or loss of control of the object,

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communication systems and protocols to be used, chain of command within the team and “what if” scenarios. Subdivision of objects and management of subdivided parts All objects in the Memorial’s collection are given a unique accession number that is used to identify and track them. Information relating to the objects is entered on the MICA (Memorial Integrated Collection Access) database and includes conservation, curatorial and location history and other records. The accession number for the whole object is called the “parent” number. Parts of an object may be subdivided from the parent and given separate “child” numbers if they require information that is only relevant to that part. Subdivision is undertaken for three reasons:

1. the subdivided part will be physically separated from the rest of the object (for example if it goes outside the Memorial or remains in storage while the rest of the object is on display);

2. the subdivided part needs to be featured intellectually (for example as a collection highlight on the website);

3. the subdivided part needs to be managed or worked on in a different way to the rest of the object, for example if it is a firearm.

There are three tiers of subdivision:

Tier 1 – Parent number - for example a whole aircraft, REL 28857 Tier 2 – Child record - for example the fuselage of the aircraft, REL28857.001 Tier 3 – Sub child number, for example the pilot’s seat (which is part of the fuselage), REL28857.001.001.

The subdivision plan is developed in consultation with conservators, curators and registration staff, to ensure that the subdivision will logically reflect the structure of the object and its future management and function within the collection. Subdivision is a lot of work, so it is only done when the division (for one of the three reasons above) will be relatively frequent or permanent, or if the subdivided part needs to leave Memorial premises. If the division is only temporary and within the Memorial, the subdivided parts may be given temporary identification tags which are then removed again when the parts are reassembled back into the larger component. While subdivided parts are physically separate from their related components they given a location under their own Tier 2 or 3 record. When they are reassembled into a larger whole they are given the dummy location term of “reassembled” and their real location is taken to be the same as that of the larger component of which they are part. Examples of LTO storage, movement and installation Based on the principles mentioned earlier in this document, these are a few of the handling, storage, transport and installation solutions that have been developed at the Memorial in recent years.

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Figure 1. Aircraft propeller stand. This is a multi-fit type propeller storage and transport stand that can be used to accommodate propellers from many different aircraft. The propellers are lifted onto the horizontal shafts and custom made cones are fitted into each end of the propeller hubs or pitch adjusters. These cones are then forced together by means of the large wing nut thereby holding the propeller firmly in place. These stands can be lifted using a forklift or crane, and can be moved at ground level using a hand pallet truck.

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Figure2. Aircraft propellers fitted to stand. These propellers have been prepared for storage at the War Memorial’s Mitchell Annex.

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Figure 3. Single engine aircraft fuselage trolley. This is also a multi-fit trolley that can accommodate many types of aircraft fuselages and some other components. Note the custom made top brackets to fit a Kittyhawk aircraft, and the forklift tine tubes fitted underneath.

Figure 4. Kittyhawk aircraft fuselage fitted to trolley. This object is being transported from the Mitchell Annex to the War Memorial building for installation in the “Air Power in the Pacific” display. It can be lifted with a medium to large forklift or crane using the lifting lugs at each corner, towed with a tow tractor and an A-frame draw bar, or pushed manually.

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Figure 5. Messerschmitt Me 163 fitted to a custom storage and transport .trolley/frame This is an example of a custom made trolley for a Messerschmitt Me 163. The wings are of timber construction and would deform if not supported during storage, display and transport. Therefore, we have fitted the aircraft to a very stiff trolley which has adjustable wing support arms, giving us the ability to accurately set the preload on the wings. This trolley can only be lifted using a crane and spreader or lifting beam, towed with a tow tractor and an A-frame draw bar, or pushed manually.

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Figure 6. Aircraft engine trolley. This shows a multi-fit aircraft engine trolley with custom brackets attached.

Figure 7. Lancaster aircraft engine fitted to engine trolley. Here a Merlin V12 aero engine from the “G for George” Lancaster bomber is fitted to an engine trolley.

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Figure 8. Beaufort aircraft engine fitted to engine trolley. This shows the versatility of the aircraft engine trolleys, with a radial aero engine from a Beaufort aircraft fitted for storage and transport. These trolleys can be lifted using a forklift, towed with a tow tractor and an A-frame draw bar, or pushed manually.

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Figure 9. Lockheed Hudson fuselage on low float. This photo shows the Memorial’s Lockheed Hudson fuselage being loaded onto a deck widening float. It has been moved using the same method from Wangaratta in Victoria to Canberra and from the Memorial's Treloar annex to the Memorial main building and back to the Treloar annex. The aircraft’s main undercarriage wheel axle stubs are supported by a modified multi-fit aircraft fuselage trolley placed across the trailer deck. Once the fuselage has been lifted off the float it can be moved around using the trolley and tow tractor with an A-frame draw bar.

.Figure 10. Gallery installation of a Mosquito aircraft. Figures 10-15 show the installation of the Memorial’s Mosquito aircraft in the “Air Power in the Pacific” exhibition in the aircraft hall. The aircraft was broken down into two major components, the fuselage and one-piece wing assembly (plus a number of minor parts) for transport and movement into the gallery. During the assembly process manually operated hoists were used to lift the fuselage and lower it onto the one-piece wing for attachment. The assembly of the aircraft was then completed at ground level and the aircraft was raised up to the display position, again using manually operated hoists and jacks. Once at display height the aircraft had structural supports fitted to the undercarriage mounts and a mezzanine floor was built underneath it.

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Figure 11

Figure 12

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Figure 13

Figure 14

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Figure 15 Particular Problems and Challenges Faced by the LTO Team

- The size and/or weight and/or fragility of some objects. Large object moves or installations consume a huge amount of resources in terms of planning, time, money, personnel and equipment.

- Changing weather conditions may require postponement of a transport operation, if objects are unprotected. This can present problems with rebooking of specialised transport, other equipment or permits soon after the original movement date.

- Changing master installation schedules, which could be due to many reasons, including delays in building works caused by unforeseen circumstances. This can cause problems with availability of freight and handling contractors after short notice changes are made.

- Being prepared for the “what ifs”, such as: • The possibility of police LTO escorts having to attend

other urgent calls in the middle of a major move has to be considered as a very real possibility. As a contingency, the LTO Team always provides a least one escort vehicle in addition to the specialist escort vehicles provided by the transport contractor. In the event of police leaving an LTO move in progress, the job would be completed without police escort if safe to do so, or progress would have to be halted until the police were able to return.

• A punctured tyre on the aircraft fuselage that is being road towed on its undercarriage needs to be

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considered as a possibly. Spare tyres fitted to wheels, jacks and wheel changing equipment are carried by LTO team escort vehicles travelling with the object. Tree pruning equipment, ladders, high powered lights, and a comprehensive general tool kit are also carried.

- And finally - the LTO team members are finding it a challenge to consume more than two large pieces of cake and a Muggaccino during their morning tea break.

______________________________________________________________ Acknowledgements The author would like to acknowledge the input provided by David Gordon, Jason d’Arx and Neill Burton, all of the Australian War Memorial. Attachment A Installation method statement for the Hunslet steam locomotive. Attachment B Safety notes for transport of the “G for George” Lancaster nose & front fuselage section and centre rear fuselage sections from Mitchell annex to the Australian War Memorial.

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Attachment A - Installation method statement for the Hunslet steam locomotive. INSTALLATION OF HUNSLET LOCOMOTIVE IN ANZAC HALL February 2004

Specifications Length overall: 6224 mm Width overall: 1935 mm Height overall: 2780 mm Specified weight: 11.1 tonnes Method Statement Loading method: Attach lifting chains with hooks to designated lifting points at front and rear of Hunslet. Using a Franna type mobile crane at the front of the engine and the AWM gantry crane at the rear, lift the engine clear of the track. Lift the transport track onto a drop deck non-widening float using a forklift. Lift the locomotive high enough for the float to be reversed under. Position the float under the locomotive. Lower Hunslet onto track, chock wheels and secure both to float. Release lifting chains. Unloading method: Prepare 6 linked artillery trolleys to receive locomotive (and transport track) at ANZAC Hall. Ensure that artillery trolley wheels are chocked to prevent unexpected movement. Attach lifting chains to locomotive as described in loading method. Lift front and rear of engine clear of float using 2 mobile cranes. Lift transport track off float and onto 6 linked artillery trolleys using forklift. Lower Hunslet onto transport track (fitted to artillery trolleys), chock wheels and secure engine to track and trolleys. Release lifting chains. Installation method: Fit short draw bar to 6 linked artillery trolleys by means of a plate bolted to front artillery trolley deck. Tow locomotive (on trolleys) into ANZAC Hall using AWM tow tractor. Move engine (on trolleys) to 6 metres in front of display position. Jack front and rear of Hunslet (alternately) using 20 tonne trolley jack until all wheels are clear of the track. Use timbers to support loco during jack changeover. Lift track slightly and support with timbers. Remove linked artillery trolleys from under loco. Lower transport track to display height using pallet trolleys and support with timbers evenly spaced along track. Lower loco onto transport track using 20 tonne trolley jack. Use timbers to support loco during jack changeovers. Chock loco wheels to prevent unexpected movement. Place display track into display position using artillery trolleys, 20 tonne creepers and pallet trolleys. Ensure that display track is butted up to transport track, and that both tracks are the same height. Push or pull Hunslet into position on display track using AWM tow tractor. Chock loco wheels. Secure loco to track to prevent unexpected movement while on display. Written by Gordon Klebba 27 January 2004

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Attachment B - Safety notes for transport of the “G for George” Lancaster nose & front fuselage section and centre rear fuselage sections from Mitchell annex to the Australian War Memorial. Transport of “G for George” Lancaster nose & front fuselage section and centre rear fuselage sections from Mitchell Annex to AWM LTO Team Safety Notes

• All team members involved in Lancaster transport (includes escorting) are to wear white overalls.

• Any person leaving an escort or transport vehicle, (while en route to

AWM) must be wearing a reflective safety vest.

• Obey all safety rules and regulations regarding operation of forklifts, vehicles, cranes & other equipment used for handling and transport operations.

• Be aware of possible media presence during all handling and transport

operations.

• Speed limit for transport vehicles will be 50 km/h.

• Be aware of “rubber neckers” (in cars, on bikes, walking etc) not looking where they are going.

• Escort vehicles – Orange safety beacons are to be switched on when

escorting loads, (during 50 km/h speed limited transport operations) to warn other road users of slow moving vehicles ahead. If you are separated from the load you are escorting, switch off your orange safety beacon until you rejoin the load that you are escorting. Do not speed when you are attempting to rejoin your load.

• We do not have the authority to drive through orange or red lights for

Lancaster transport operations.

• If you have any problems or questions contact Gordon Klebba 0419 402663 or Chris Rentoule 0421 600278.

• Take great care when handling loads in windy conditions.

General Notes

• The Lancaster nose & front fuselage section (Truck 1) and centre rear fuselage section (Truck 2) will travel in convoy to the AWM via Capital Hill.

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• Laura from AWM Marketing & Public Affairs will be travelling in Team A escort vehicle (white station wagon) to deal with any media inquiries during the nose & centre rear fuselage transport. (Load 1 & 2)

• Marylou Pooley from AWM Marketing & Public Affairs will be travelling

in the MIX 106.3 Cruiser at the rear of the convoy.

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