OTC 2019: Giant crane designed for heavier FPSO module lifts

May 8, 2019
ALE has unveiled what it claims is the world’s largest land-based crane, the SK10,000.

Offshore staff

HOUSTON – ALE has unveiled what it claims is the world’s largest land-based crane, the SK10,000.

The structure provides a lifting capacity of 10,000 metric tons (11,020 tons), and was engineered partly in response to demand for lifting of larger and heavier modules for FPSO and FLNG construction.

ALE’s existing AL.SK350 has performed module lifts in the range of 3,000 metric tons, but the new crane will allow installation of modules directly onto vessel hulls.

The SK10,000 employs the same design features as the AL.SK190 and AL.SK350, and has a similar footprint and ground bearing pressures to the AL.SK350, but with the following advantages:

  • Outreach with jib of up to 200 m (655 ft)
  • Ground bearing pressure below 25 metric tons/sq m
  • Winch hoisting system, with various hook blocks to maximize lift capacity and hoisting speed
  • Small plot area: the central ballast design is said to eliminate the need for a full ring or crane track unless required for the project, reducing occupancy of the lifting area by up to 45%. This feature should suit busy shipyards.
  • Large lifting radius allows the crane to be fully rigged and operated off-plot, with fewer lifting positions and reduced ground preparation. Foundation work can continue while critical pieces are installed, reducing schedule and lowering cost.
  • Containerized design and fast-assembly designed to minimize mobilization and assembly time. ALE can assemble the crane in weeks using standard plant and a crawler crane.

05/08/2019