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Huisman has received an order for the delivery of a Traveling Load Stabilising System, which will be integrated into both 3,000+mt Leg Encircling Cranes for Havfram’s two new NG-20000X-HF Wind Turbine Installation Vessels.

The Traveling Load Stabilising System enables Havfram to stabilise wind turbine components during installation, particularly blades, but also nacelles and tower segments.

Huisman, Siemens Gamesa, and Vestas combined their engineering and operational expertise to launch the patented Traveling Load Stabilising System, designed to mitigate safety risks, reduce the cycle time and increase workability during the installation of components. The system is now being adopted by other turbine manufacturers as well, further advancing sustainability across the wind industry.

The system consists of a combination of two pairs of tuggers working in unison to control to position of the load. One pair is fitted on independent trolleys that can travel along an integrated rail along the crane’s stiff boom. Thanks to the rigid connection between the rail and the crane boom, the system as a whole becomes more stable, resulting in more reliable and effective control.

The trolleys automatically follow the main block to maintain an optimal tugger line configuration. The second pair of tugger lines is deployed from the crane tip providing a force perpendicular to the first pair of tuggers. By approaching the load from two different directions, the system provides significantly more control than a conventional single pair of tuggers.

A specially designed control system holds the actual position of the load, resulting in a much stiffer restraint, and therefore a higher position accuracy compared to conventional tugger systems that rely on constant tension. In case of an unexpected overload, the system will give way but will return to its position setpoint when the force drops below the threshold again.

The Traveling Load Stabilising System will function as an integral part of the cranes and will be operated from the crane cabins as well from an optional walk around box (WAB).

The Leg Encircling Cranes and Auxiliary Crane packages are currently under construction at Huisman’s production facility in Zhangzhou, China. Upon completion, they will be delivered to Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore Ltd., where they will be installed on the NG-20000X-HF Wind Turbine Installation Vessels being built for Havfram.

Sarens has undertaken an integral role in the Shell Polaris CCS project at the Scotford location, contributing to a critical component of the new carbon capture and storage infrastructure.

This project aims to help reduce emissions, aligning with the global push for greener technologies.

The project, which officially started in October of 2024, involved heavy haul / lift operations, including the transportation and installation of an Amine Absorber, an Amine Stripper, and a Quench Tower. Sarens was chosen for this task due to our strong proposal and previous successful collaborations with Shell.

The planning phase of the project was thorough, addressing several key logistical challenges, including de-energising transmission lines, removing railway arms, and evaluating bridge capacities to ensure safe passage of the equipment. Extensive preparations were necessary, particularly around the removal and lifting of overhead power lines, which required 45 days’ notice.

Sarens deployed two Kamag K25 platform trailers with bolsters consisting of 56 axle lines total, carefully selected for their load capacity and capability over public roadways. The equipment performed exceptionally, both in appearance and functionality, during the eight-hour transport via local highways. The heaviest component, weighing 866.000,00 lbs, was meticulously transported, navigating tight corners, railway crossings, and power lines, all while adhering to Alberta Transportation regulations.

The transportation involved an experienced crew of eight members, working under the guidance of our Transport Manager Phil Wiebe, Project Manager Paul Betts, and our well-seasoned engineering team. Sarens also collaborated closely with Alberta Transportation to ensure all load requirements were met. Throughout the project, the team faced challenges related to confined spaces and load capacity, but the professionalism and expertise of the crew ensured smooth operations.

The heavy lifting unfolded over an eight-day campaign, during which the three massive columns were expertly set in place. Among them, the Amine Absorber—towering at nearly 235 feet—now stands as the tallest structure on site. This feat was accomplished using our CC6800 crane, supported by a CC2800 as the tail crane. Both the Amine Stripper and Quench Tower required precise on-site transportation, for which Sarens deployed a fleet of 24 lines of K24 SPMTs. These transport units ensured a safe and efficient operation, meeting the highest standards of performance. Despite the rather frigid conditions, our crane operators and supervision team delivered exceptional results, completing the job safely and seamlessly.

Sarens continues to demonstrate its expertise in managing complex heavy haul and installation projects. The Shell Polaris CCS project stands as another testament to our ability to deliver on challenging tasks while contributing to significant environmental initiatives like carbon capture. With Sarens at the helm of logistics, transport and heavy lifting, the project is on track for timely completion, and its benefits to both the local community and the environment are clear.

Energy and marine consultancy ABL has entered into a knowledge transfer partnership with the University of Strathclyde and the University of Plymouth to develop a decision-making software to facilitate informed decarbonisation strategies for the maritime industry, including vessels and ports, in the context of evolving policy and technological uncertainties.

The software will offer vital support to decision-makers responsible for creating decarbonisation roadmaps, pathways, or making decarbonisation investments. This includes shipowners, charterers, cargo owners, ship and port managers, as well as policymakers and advisors. Financial institutions and insurers will also benefit from the software, as it helps them navigate the complexities of decarbonisation policies and related decisions.

”Such a tool does not exist in the wider maritime industry today. Maritime stakeholders therefore risk taking suboptimal decarbonisation decisions where they utilise information that can only look a year or two ahead as basis for investments that have a 20-30 year horizon. We will apply our expertise within maritime operations, vessels and ports design, energy and emission modelling to develop the new software. This will enable us to provide advanced predictive analysis and simulations, assisting our clients to navigate the complexities and uncertain conditions of their decarbonisation strategy.” Stefano Scarpa, Associate Director for Maritime Decarbonisation & Global Emissions Consulting Lead.

The project is co-founded by Innovate UK and will have a duration of 24 months. It will engage software engineering capabilities that will be co-located with ABL’s maritime decarbonisation team in London, UK, and draw upon expertise from academics from the University of Strathclyde and the University of Plymouth.

ABL has supported maritime decarbonisation projects with solutions for renewable energy production, energy storage and cold-ironing, alternative fuels and electrification, climate change adaptation, emission audit, assessment and abatement (AAA) consulting and shipboard carbon capture and storage.

ABL is part of Oslo-listed consultancy group ABL Group ASA.

Belorg Shipping are new members in India.

Their seasoned team possess in-depth specialist knowledge and expertise in the multimodal handling of project cargo, breakbulk, heavy lift and RORO covering all the key industries.

The company hold MTO certification and their expert project cargo services encompass ocean freight, surface transport, chartering, air freight, loading & unloading, planning, cargo surveys, port feasibility studies, route surveys, documentation, customs clearance, storage & warehousing, trade & traffic forecasts and financing strategies.

Anil Kotadia (Director) says; “Belorg Shipping is your trusted partner in seamless project shipping and logistics, providing a comprehensive suite of tailored solutions.”

“With extensive experience in handling project cargo, Belorg Shipping is a one-stop solution. Our team of experienced logistics professionals are well-versed in identifying the most cost-effective transportation options. We meticulously evaluate all modes of transport to ensure complex cargo reaches its destination efficiently and economically.”

“We employ innovative thinking to develop and execute effective, flexible and safe solutions for any project cargo needs.”

The PROTRANSER team in China are pleased to report on their recent delivery of transformers to locations in Egypt & UAE.

Protranser first received the transformers from a factory in Wuhan before splitting the shipment between its two destinations at Shanghai Port.

Of the 13 transformers, 6 travelled to Abu Dhabi, with 3 of these transformers featuring weights of 105.2 tons and the final 3 measuring 64.2 tons.

After this, 7 sets were transported to Safaga, with 5 of them featuring weights of 54 tons and the final 2 weighing 116.6 tons.

Protranser’s scope of work for this project including receiving the cargo at the factory in Wuhan, port services in Shanghai (for all sets to UAE), as well as customs clearance.

Dredging in the first expansion phase of the Kiel Canal in Germany is nearing completion.

The eastern section of the canal is progressing significantly, with the first phase of dredging almost finished. Our backhoe dredger ‘Peter the Great’ has removed nearly 1.1 million cubic metres of soil, pictured here as Maersk’s green methanol vessel ‘Laura Maersk’ passes by. The current focus is on refining the underwater slopes and removing unevenness on the canal bed, with the works set to finish by mid-2025.

This project is part of a larger effort to widen the canal for more reliable shipping traffic and to prepare it for future shipping needs. The Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration is working on the eastern section between Großkönigsförde and Holtenau, with plans to widen the canal to a minimum bed width of 70 metres. Additionally, the curves are being softened to allow ships to pass more easily.

On the occasion of the International Day of Human Solidarity, Rhenus announces the success of its first Food Drive, held on 9 December in cooperation with the Banco Alimentare ETS Foundation.

The initiative involved all Italian branches, enabling over 500 kg of essential foodstuffs to be collected.

This project was born from the desire to offer concrete support to disadvantaged families, enhancing the role of the Banco Alimentare, which has been on the front line against food waste and poverty for years. Thanks to the collaboration with this important organisation, Rhenus has succeeded in transforming a simple gesture into a significant contribution for those who need it most.

Since 1989, the Banco Alimentare ETS Foundation has been a point of reference in the fight against food waste and in supporting organisations that assist people in need. With a widespread network of volunteers and collaborators, Banco Alimentare collects and distributes thousands of tonnes of food products every year to partner organisations throughout Italy.

The Rhenus in-company food drive, organised in cooperation with Banco Alimentare, involved all employees of the Italian branches and enabled over 500 kg of food to be collected, equivalent to around 1,000 meals for families and people in need.

The project, promoted by the Sustainability and HR teams of Rhenus in Italy, reflects the commitment of Rhenus to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda, in particular Goal 1 (Fighting Poverty), Goal 2 (Fighting Hunger) and Goal 10 (Fighting Inequality). The company intends to make its employees and staff aware of the importance of supporting the disadvantaged, joining forces for a positive impact on the community.

”We are extremely proud to collaborate with Banco Alimentare for this first edition of the In-Company Food Drive,” said Rhenus Management in Italy. ”This project represents a concrete step towards a business model that is increasingly attentive to the needs of society and the communities in which we operate.”

Kalmar Corporation has entered into a EUR 200 million revolving credit facility with a syndicate of its six relationship banks on 13 December 2024.

The facility has a tenor of five years with two one-year extension options subject to the lenders’ approval. The purpose of this facility is to refinance the existing EUR 150 million euros bilateral revolving credit facilities maturing in 2025 and 2027 and general corporate purposes of the group.
With this facility, Kalmar strengthens its long-term liquidity position.

The facility was coordinated by SEB and the Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners are BNP Paribas, Danske Bank, Nordea Bank, OP Corporate Bank, SEB (Facility Agent) and Standard Chartered Bank.

Seaway7 has been awarded a substantial1 contract by Inch Cape Offshore Limited, a joint venture between ESB and Red Rock Renewables, for the transport and installation of pin-pile jacket foundations and transition pieces for the Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm.

The 1.1GW Inch Cape project offshore site is located in the Scottish North Sea, 15 kilometres off the Angus coast, and will comprise 72 wind turbine generators. Seaway7’s scope of work includes the transport and installation of 18 pin-pile jacket foundations and 54 transition pieces with offshore works expected to commence in 2026.

Lloyd Duthie, Seaway7’s VP UK & Asia, said: “We are looking forward to supporting ESB and Red Rock on the Inch Cape project and at the same time making a contribution to the UK’s energy security and emissions reduction targets”.

John Hill, Inch Cape’s Project Director said: “I am extremely pleased to have such an experienced party as Seaway7 sign with the project and take responsibility for the installation of our jacket foundations and the transition pieces.”

1. Seaway7, part of the Subsea7 Group, defines a substantial contract as being between $150 million and $300 million.

Flynn Crane Hire has added the first Tadano AC 7.450-1 all-terrain crane in Ireland to its fleet, further strengthening its ability to meet the demands of diverse lifting projects.

The seven-axle crane combines compact dimensions, impressive reach, and exceptional lifting performance, making it a valuable addition to the company’s operations.

Managing Director Colm Flynn explains the decision to invest in this innovative model: “The Tadano AC 7.450-1 offers unparalleled reach with its 80-metre main boom and optional luffing jib. Its combination of compactness and strength enables us to take on projects that previously required larger cranes, but with greater efficiency. Its small footprint is ideal for Ireland’s tighter job sites, particularly in urban areas.”

The AC 7.450-1 combines the compact size of a six-axle model with the power and performance of an eight-axle crane. Its outstanding lifting capacities include up to 23.7 tonnes with the 80-metre main boom alone and an impressive 37.3 tonnes when using the Sideways Superlift (SSL) system.

The SSL system, first introduced in 2001 and further enhanced for the AC 7.450-1, attaches the Superlift arms directly to the head of the main boom, extending their useful length. This innovative design significantly increases lifting capacity and positions the AC 7.450-1 as a leader in its class. Additionally, the system’s hydraulic pinning and single-wire connection simplify the setup process, reducing manual labour and ensuring efficient operation on-site.

Contracts Manager Simon Carroll highlights the practical advantages: “The SSL design ensures that setup is both safe and fast, which is a tremendous advantage for demanding projects. The AC 7.450-1’s compact size and Surround View camera system make navigating and operating in confined spaces straightforward, while its lifting power matches many larger cranes. These features are particularly beneficial for jobs where space and time are limited.”

Since its delivery, the AC 7.450-1 has been deployed on a variety of projects, including dismantling tower cranes, and replacing air handling units on high-rise buildings.

Operator Paul Douglas has the final word: “The AC 7.450-1 is a highly capable crane that offers smooth and precise operation, whether working with the main boom or the luffing jib. It is also exceptionally easy to transport between sites, which enhances its overall efficiency. This crane has quickly proven itself to be an indispensable asset in our fleet.”

The BlueScope No. 6 Blast Furnace (6BF) Reline Project has reached a major milestone with Marr Contracting’s M2480D Heavy Lift Luffing tower crane successfully removing the 6BF downcomer in a carefully planned engineering feat at the Port Kembla Steelworks (PKSW).

The removal of the 170-tonne, 54-metre long downcomer was safely completed using the 330-tonne capacity M2480D, with Marr’s 400-tonne Grove mobile crane used to assist with rotating the downcomber once it had be lowered to ground level.

Once removed and lowered to the ground by the M2480D, the downcomer was horizontally rotated and placed on Marr-supplied supports and reconfigured to be transported for refurbishment and replacement.

Engineered and planned by the BlueScope Reline Project team in collaboration with Marr, the innovative heavy lifting solution provided a less complex and safer alternative to using a traditional heavy lift crawler approach.

With previous experience removing similar sections of plant on a similarly congested worksite during the Blast Furnace No.5 Reline Project, BlueScope’s team knew that using a large crawler crane and superlift combination would present numerous challenges due to the location of the project and the restricted space available on the site.

According to PKSW Project Director, Justin Reed, “Marr’s team have challenged our traditional thinking by enabling large sections of equipment that were previously maintained in situ to be lifted to ground for repairs or replacement.”

“The capability and capacity of the M2480D is a true game-changer for our project. At vertical industrial sites like a Blast Furnace we have always wished there was a ‘sky-hook’ that could deliver a lift at any point on the plant, and now we have a solution with significant lifting capacity,” Mr Reed said.

With safety and minimising disruption to production at PKSW a priority, Marr’s solution is also helping to mitigate risk to critical path by providing BlueScope with an instant cranage solution for a large volume of smaller lifts at site during the relining process.

Installed on a specifically-design 7.5 x 7.5m piled foundation, the M2480D provides the heavy lifting capacity required with the additional benefits of a small footprint and long reach across the project.

“By engaging us early in the planning stages, BlueScope’s team unlocked the possibility to develop a simple solution that helped to reduce complexity and secure the tight construction program.” said Marr’s Managing Director, Simon Marr.

The refurbished downcomer will be reinstalled in another major lifting operation using Marr’s M2480D in mid-2025.

BlueScope anticipates that the 6BF will be recommissioned in mid-2026.

Hiab, part of Cargotec, has signed a strategic HIAB loader cranes dealer agreement with Ring Power Utility | Truck | Crane in the US.

The agreement comprises HIAB loader cranes, as well as services.

Founded in 2008, Ring Power Utility | Truck | Crane has grown into a leader in utility equipment, vocational trucks, and cranes, offering top-tier products from world-class brands and delivering innovative solutions, exceptional service, and lasting value through 11 U.S. locations.

The addition of HIAB equipment to Ring Power Utility | Truck | Crane’s portfolio marks a significant milestone for both companies. “This partnership represents an exciting new chapter,” says Mike Beauregard, SVP, Director of Utility | Truck | Crane. “By combining HIAB’s industry-leading products with our strong salesforce, established network, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re confident in a bright future together.”

Hiab loader cranes are known and respected in the US for their high quality, reliability and industry’s best-in-class safety features. Hiab has an unparalleled service network that provides over 700 service points across the country.

“Hiab is looking for future growth, and an important part of that is to further expand our leading position in the growing North American markets. The cooperation that we now embark on with Ring Power Utility | Truck | Crane will greatly support our ambitions in this,” says Pauliina Kunvik, SVP Sales & Services, Hiab USA. “Ring Power Utility | Truck | Crane is strategically very well positioned in the US and their sales and services organisations are well-known for their enthusiasm and expertise.”

“The geographical coverage of Ring Power Utility | Truck | Crane is excellent and from Hiab growth point of view very attractive. Both teams Ring Power and Hiab show a 100 percent commitment to the cooperation, and are excited to head towards joint growth together,” says Bob Cannady, VP Sales, Hiab US.

Egypt’s oil & natural gas company Petrosafe recently partnered with ABL Group to host an industry seminar on the topic of asset integrity management and safety of petroleum facilities.

The seminar, entitled “Managing Today’s Assets for Egypt’s Tomorrow”, took place in Cairo, Egypt and brought together industry representatives including national and international oil & gas companies, and government stakeholders.

Tamer Gamil, Country Manager to ABL Egypt, commented: “This seminar represented the value that our successful collaboration with Petrosafe can bring to the Egyptian energy market – working together to unlock technical solutions that support the long-term commercial bankability of Egyptian oil & gas. With Petrosafe we were able to bring those solutions to more stakeholders and to engage the wider industry in meaningful discussion.”

The event included a series of presentations, which focussed on the value of effective asset integrity management to operators, the importance of developing a strategy for maintaining efficiency and reliability in assets, as well as looking at solutions to ensure an asset is fit-for-purpose throughout its design life.

The day also included a presentation on ABL Training in process safety asset integrity for installations and pipelines.

The technical programme was put together by ABL Group’s energy and marine consultancy branch, ABL, together with its design and engineering house, Longitude.

“Together with Longitude, we bring unique value to the Egyptian energy market, combining our expertise in the operational lifecycle of a project and asset, with their process and asset design and engineering know-how. Finally, our well-established presence in the market, means we possess first-hand practical expertise in the challenges and opportunities faced by Egyptian oil & gas companies, positioning us best to find the most pragmatic solutions. Continues Tamer Gamil.

Fortune International are glad to share their recent shipment involving large machinery at Genoa.

This delivery featured extreme dimensions, especially its width, which measured 4.87 metres across a weight of 110 tons.

Fortune International ran into their first obstacle at the entrance of the factory – the width of the door was only 4.85 metres.

Dismantling the machinery or the the door itself were not feasible solutions, and so after a survey, Fortune discovered a back door allowing the 4.87 metre-wide cargo to enter.

However, the road to this back door was incredibly narrow and the specialised truck was unable to turn due to its length.

To solve these issues, Fortune organised the trucking to be conducted with a heavy carrier/low loader up to the closest area to the final destination (around 200 metres away).

The company then transshipped the machinery onto a much smaller truck, which allowed them to enter the narrow road and complete the transport through the bigger back door.