Huisman has completed a key testing phase for its new system for installing offshore wind turbine components from jack-up vessels.
The company’s Jacking Gearbox, as part of its Jacking System, has completed a factory acceptance test (FAT).
The Jacking System, available in a range of models, is specifically designed for wind turbine installation jack-up vessels, taking into account both present and future requirements in the installation of turbines at sea.
The Jacking System features two available gear versions available, which are L and XL versions, suitable for vessel designs of various independent design companies.
The system can achieve static pinion loads up to 800 tonnes (L) or 1000 tonnes (XL).
It also includes a flexible suspension method for integration with different vessel designs and potential to achieve leg preload capacities beyond 30,000 tonnes, depending on leg layout and the system’s number of layers.
The system contains a dedicated proprietary control system which optimises the system’s load distribution, specifically for turbine and foundation installation.
Huisman has teamed up with its long-term supplier of gearboxes for offshore equipment, German based O&K Antriebstechnik, part of the Bonfiglioli Group.
An important aspect of a successful delivery of the gearbox has been the FAT, consisting of multiple tests under motion at O&K’s test facility in Hattingen.
Upon delivery of the gearboxes to one of its production facilities, Huisman will continue with full-load jacking demonstration trials.
Huisman has experience in the application of large-scale drive systems in offshore applications that include large pinions, large gearboxes, and large amounts of power, combined with control systems.
Cees van Veluw, Product Manager Cranes at Huisman, said: “We are proud of achieving this important milestone for our new range of jacking systems. This will further enable the implementation of the systems in vessel designs that may emerge in the years to come.
“The interest of vessel owners, operators and designers has encouraged us to apply our knowledge and expertise to this.”
Marco Cesari, General Manager Business Unit Mobility & Wind Industries at Bonfiglioli, added: “We are honoured to have partnered with Huisman on this important project, which is a mark of the strong relationship we have built over the years.
“This achievement confirms our position as a leading provider of special large gearboxes – and thanks to this new tailored solution for jacking systems, we are extending our range of offshore solutions.”