Netherlands-based Mammoet has introduced a new line of PTC super heavy-lift cranes. Designed in-house by the company for use on large construction projects such as oil refineries, power stations, and offshore projects throughout the world, the New Generation PTCs were engineered for reliability, ease of transport, and harsh environments. Their design was fully reviewed by Lloyds’ Register. Last month, two models, with capacities of 140,000 and 200,000 ton meters, were presented and demonstrated at Mammoet’s dedicated site in Zeeland, the Netherlands. For mega construction projects, Mammoet uses PTC (platform, twin ring, containerized) ring cranes of its own design. One of the strengths of the company is its experience on challenging projects which demand innovative solutions, and in the coming years it wants to concentrate more on projects demanding highly specialized equipment.
Because the modules used to build refineries and other plants continue to increase in size and weight, Mammoet designed this new generation of PTC cranes to build large structures more efficiently and safely. The cranes feature high lifting capacity and reach combined with a small footprint for versatility. They are real cranes rather than gantries with strand jacks. They can pick up and place loads across a large part of a construction site and reach across tall structures with their luffing jibs.
Mammoet’s nonstop interpolation principle means that the load charts for different main boom angles may be interpolated. This helps make the best use of the crane’s capacity when planning a heavy lift. The new PTCs have a relatively small footprint (45 or 55 meters, depending on the capacity) and can slew a full circle in only 15 minutes. Their winches can lift loads up to 3,200 tons to a height of 120 meters in just 12 minutes. Their containerized design means the cranes can be mobilized and erected anywhere in the world within three to six weeks.
Because of their large reach there will rarely be a need to relocate the cranes. However, their bogies can be placed on tracks, or the whole crane can be picked up and relocated on site by self-propelled modular transporters. Mammoet notes the units can operate in both arctic and desert climates without loss of capacity and can withstand high winds. They can even survive hurricanes and minor earthquakes, according to the manufacturer.
Critical drives, control systems, and safety equipment are duplicated for increased reliability. The hydraulic power packs which drive all the equipment are fuel efficient and meet strict emission requirements, and most of the ballast can be sourced locally to reduce the need for transport.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
