Adaptec Integrates Overhead Crane Systems to Power Thruway Stone’s Fabrication Process
Customer Background & Problem
Thruway Stone, a custom countertop fabrication and installation company in Farmington, NY, handles large granite and quartz slabs sourced from around the world. These heavy, oversized materials required precise positioning during fabrication to protect both employees and high-value automation equipment.
When building their new facility, Thruway Stone needed an overhead crane system to safely unload trucks, move slabs through production, and integrate seamlessly with future expansion plans. The space was completely bare, requiring a system designed from the ground up with both immediate needs and long-term scalability in mind.
Approach to the Solution & Partnership
From the start, Thruway Stone engaged Adaptec to plan the crane systems early in the facility design phase. This allowed for a thoughtful, collaborative approach:
- Detailed upfront planning ensured the building’s steel structure could support crane loading and future expansions.
- A New York State Professional Engineer (PE) validated load requirements and structural support for long-term reliability.
- Clear communication with owner Mitch Makowski and his team allowed the design to perfectly align with their operational needs.
Makowski shared detailed use cases and future goals, and Adaptec’s team delivered a tailored design supported by technical expertise and precise planning.
Technology
Adaptec integrated a combination of Gorbel cranes, Harrington hoists, and a UESCO 3-ton single-girder top-running crane system.
Key technical considerations included:
- Maintaining overhead clearances by custom coping the bridge while still achieving the required maximum hook height.
- Ceiling-mounted systems (except the UESCO crane) designed for optimal fit within the facility.
- Accounting for tight clearance obstacles such as gas heaters, sprinklers, and existing process equipment.
- Designing the system in the storage area for quick truck unloading while ensuring seamless movement across production zones.
By involving the PE early, the team created a support structure that was not only safe but also adaptable for future expansions.
Results
The crane systems have transformed how Thruway Stone operates. The team reported huge safety and ergonomic improvements, stating, “We couldn’t operate the way we do without these cranes.”
Key outcomes include:
- Improved operator safety by eliminating the need for manual handling of oversized slabs.
- Reduced risk of equipment damage through precise material positioning.
- Increased efficiency and workflow, allowing trucks to be unloaded faster and production processes to flow smoothly.
- Future-ready infrastructure, thanks to planning for expansion from day one.
Why the Partnership Worked
The success of this project came down to early engagement, mutual trust, and expertise. Thruway Stone came to Adaptec as soon as they identified a challenge, trusted the team’s recommendations, and collaborated closely during the design phase.
From detailed design proposals to the expertise of the Rochester installation team, every step was rooted in precision and partnership.
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