Penta-Ocean Construction has commissioned Ulstein Design & Solutions to design a heavy lift vessel for the Japanese offshore wind market.
The Ulstein HX118 design will feature a 5000MT Huisman crane and Ulstein’s U-STERN stern, enabling the installation of larger monopile foundations.
Seatrium has been awarded the contract to carry out the engineering, procurement and construction of the vessel.
Huisman’s order from Penta-Ocean Construction comprises a 5000MT tub mounted crane along with a monopile handling system, including a motion compensated pile gripper.
The tub mounted crane features a dual main hoist and Universal Quick Connector, enabling efficient, safe tool changes to reduce cycle time and safety risks.
The pile gripper is specifically designed for the installation of large-diameter, variable-length monopiles over the vessel’s unique U-shaped stern.
With the monopiles being stored lengthwise on the vessel, the integrated upending system enables direct handling from storage to installation.
These features minimise lifting operations, while the aft installation method enhances shielding, improving the vessel’s workability and operational efficiency.
Tetsunori Ohshimo, senior managing executive officer, head of the offshore wind construction business divisions group of Penta-Ocean Construction, said: “We are proud to finalise the contract with Huisman for the development of a 5,000mt fully revolving crane and a monopile handling system to be installed on the advanced heavy lift vessel.
“The vessel, equipped with an innovative crane system, is essential for installing the increasingly heavy monopile foundations required for larger wind turbines. We are confident that Huisman’s heavy lift and installation technology will make a significant contribution to the development of offshore wind in Japan.”
Timon Ligterink, commercial director APAC of Huisman, said: “We are honoured to be awarded this prestigious contract, which celebrates the incredible collaboration between Penta-Ocean Construction, Ulstein, and Huisman.
“Working together, we have created fully integrated equipment for this groundbreaking, next-generation heavy lift vessel. This partnership exemplifies what can be achieved through shared vision and innovation, and we are committed to advancing the future of heavy lift and installation technology in Japan.”
The partnership with Penta-Ocean Construction represents Huisman’s entry to the Japanese market.