Precise installation in Zagreb: Heavydrive safely installs undulating glass panes
Heavydrive successfully completes a challenging glass installation at the Croatian Music Institute
As part of the extensive renovation of the historic Hrvatski Glazbeni Zavod (Croatian Music Institute) in Zagreb, Heavydrive assisted with the installation of a total of 20 undulating glass panes weighing between 100 and 500 kg. SOLIUM d.o.o. took on the planning and execution of the complex façade work.
The renovation of the listed building on Gundulićeva Street is currently in its final stages. The long-established music institute was severely damaged in the earthquake in March 2020 and required extensive repairs. The restoration is being overseen by the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media, in cooperation with the City of Zagreb and architect Roman Šilje. The cultural monument is set to reopen in early 2027.
Heavydrive supported the project by providing key technology and expertise. To install the unique façade elements for the new concert hall on the top floor, Heavydrive used a customised glass robot, a counterweight beam, a glass transport cart and a suction system adapted specifically for undulating glass panes. This combination enabled the 20 panes to be installed efficiently and precisely.
First, the glass installation equipment was hoisted up to the working level on the fourth floor, followed by the glass transport cart. The suction system and the counterweight beam were connected to make the panes easier to handle.
As each glass pane had its own unique undulating profile, the suction system had to be adjusted precisely to the specific geometry before each lifting operation. The first nine panes were then raised and carefully manoeuvred through the remaining scaffolding. The glass robot positioned them with millimetre precision. Another special requirement was that the panes had to be covered with film before installation, as a wall directly behind them needed to be concealed.
The remaining façade panes were then also fitted precisely into their designated positions below an overhang. Despite space being limited and the scaffolding still in place, Heavydrive’s experienced operators installed all the elements safely and efficiently.
The weather also presented the installation team with additional challenges. In wet weather, the glass panes had to be carefully dried before each lifting operation to ensure secure adhesion of the vacuum lifting system and safe, controlled handling.
Thanks to the precise coordination of all stages of the work, the high-performance lifting equipment and the experience of the Heavydrive team, all the undulating glass panes were installed safely, precisely and professionally, despite the challenging conditions.
Tags: #CurvedGlass #HrvatskiGlazbeniZavod #Heavydrive #GlassInstallation #FacadeConstruction #GlassManufacturing #InstallationTechnology #LiftingTechnology #VacuumTechnology #GlassRobot
