Appearance
A BTA machine weighs 15–40 tons and requires precision realignment within 0.02 mm/m. Professional rigging costs $8,000–25,000. Attempting to save money with unqualified riggers costs more in damage and downtime.
Relocation Planning Timeline
| Phase | Timeline | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment | 4–6 weeks before move | Machine survey, transport route survey, rigging method selection |
| Contractor selection | 3–4 weeks before move | Get 3 quotes, verify insurance, check references |
| Preparation | 2–3 weeks before move | Drain coolant, disconnect utilities, label connections |
| Rigging and loading | 1–2 days | Crane hire, rigging, securing for transport |
| Transport | Variable | Flatbed or low-boy trailer, permits, escort vehicles |
| Unloading and placement | 1–2 days | Crane hire, positioning on foundation |
| Reassembly and alignment | 3–10 days | Level, align spindle, align guideway |
| Re-commissioning | 2–5 days | Coolant fill, electrical check, test cut |
Contractor Selection
Rigging Contractor Requirements
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Experience with machine tools (not just general rigging) | Machine tools require precision handling, not just lifting |
| Insurance: minimum $2 million liability + riggers liability | Covers damage during the move |
| References from similar-size machine moves | Verifies capability |
| In-house engineering for lift plan | Complex lifts require engineered plans |
| CNC machine transport experience | Knowledge of axis locking, way protection |
Tip: Ask potential contractors: "How many deep hole drilling machines have you moved?" If the answer is zero, look elsewhere.
Questions to Ask Rigging Contractors
- What is your experience with machines over 15 tons?
- Do you have experience with long-bed machines (over 6 m)?
- How do you protect precision way surfaces during transport?
- Do you provide laser alignment after placement?
- What is your insurance deductible?
Pre-Move Preparation
Machine Preparation
- [ ] Back up all CNC parameters, programs, and compensations
- [ ] Mark and label all electrical, coolant, and hydraulic connections
- [ ] Drain coolant system completely — including lines and pump
- [ ] Drain hydraulic oil or seal all openings
- [ ] Lock all axes with shipping brackets (manufacturer's procedure)
- [ ] Remove or secure all protruding components (chip conveyor, coolant arm)
- [ ] Wrap and protect way covers, ball screws, and linear guides
- [ ] Take photographs of the machine in its current position for reference
Documentation to Prepare
- Machine serial number and model
- Original installation drawings and foundation plan
- Electrical schematics
- Coolant system diagram
- Weight distribution data (axle loads for transport)
- Rigging points specified by manufacturer
Transport Considerations
Transport Method Selection
| Machine Size | Recommended Transport | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small gun drilling (< 5 tons) | Flatbed truck | $1,500–3,000 |
| Medium BTA (5–15 tons) | Step deck trailer | $3,000–6,000 |
| Large BTA (15–40 tons) | Low-boy trailer | $5,000–12,000 |
| Extra long (> 10 m bed) | Extendable trailer | $8,000–15,000 |
Route Survey
Before transport, survey the route for:
- Bridge weight limits
- Low overpasses (measure machine height on trailer)
- Road width restrictions
- Turning radius at corners and gates
- Loading dock or ramp capacity at both locations
Reinstallation and Alignment
Foundation Requirements at New Location
- Verify new floor meets load-bearing requirements (typically 5–10 tons/m²)
- Check floor flatness: within 3 mm over 3 m for precision machines
- Update foundation plan if the new location has different soil conditions
Alignment Procedure
- Place machine on foundation, leave anchor bolts loose
- Rough level using precision level (0.02 mm/m resolution)
- Tighten anchor bolts to 50% of specified torque
- Fine level: longitudinal and lateral within 0.02 mm/m
- Align spindle axis to guideway using test bar and indicator
- Tighten anchor bolts to full torque
- Verify alignment — readjust if necessary
FAQ
Can I move a deep hole drilling machine myself?
Only for small gun drilling machines under 3 tons. For anything larger, professional rigging is strongly recommended. The cost of one damaged way surface exceeds the rigging contract.
How long does a machine relocation take?
Total project time: 4–8 weeks from planning to production. The actual move (rigging + transport) takes 3–5 days. Reassembly and re-commissioning takes 5–15 days depending on machine complexity.
Does moving a machine void the warranty?
For machines still under warranty, check with the manufacturer. Some require manufacturer-supervised moving. Unauthorised moves may void remaining warranty coverage.
Do I need to recalibrate after moving?
Yes. Even a careful move affects machine geometry. Full recalibration including laser interferometer verification of axis positioning is required. Budget $2,000–5,000 for calibration services.
Should I use the original manufacturer for relocation?
For complex machines under warranty, yes. For older machines out of warranty, a qualified machine tool rigging specialist is sufficient at 40–60% of the manufacturer's cost.
Relocation requirements vary by machine type, size, and distance. Consult the machine manufacturer for model-specific procedures. This article reflects industry practice as of 2026.