Lifting system and apparatus for constructing wind turbine towers

A method for erecting a high-elevation multiple-bay structural tower and associated wind turbine equipment on a foundation, the method comprising the steps of:

• securing a base bay assembly to the foundation;
• positioning an intermediate bay assembly on top of the base bay assembly using a crane;
• positioning a top bay assembly on top of the first intermediate bay assembly using a crane;
• positioning an apparatus for lifting a wind turbine proximate the top bay assembly using a crane;
• and
• positioning a wind turbine on top of the top bay assembly using the apparatus for lifting a wind turbine,
• wherein the apparatus for lifting a wind turbine includes:
• a support frame connected to the top bay assembly of the tower;
• wherein the tower is a space frame tower having a plurality of legs interconnected by support members;
• wherein said support frame is configured to be removably attached to at least two legs of the space frame tower in order to dissipate loading among a plurality of legs;
• a first lifting truss pivotally connected to the support frame, wherein said support frame is configured to be placed at a single location on the tower during its use;
• the first lifting truss having a distal end extending away from the support frame;
• a rigging assembly connected proximate the distal end and configured for hoisting a turbine to the upper end of the tower;
• and
• an hydraulic ram having a first end connected to the support frame and a second end connected to the first lifting truss.