Huisman signs LOI for delivery of 2,600mt Leg Encircling Crane

In order to be deployed for offshore wind installation, the crane setup of the BT-220IU unit has been optimised. With its 140m long boom and 2,600mt lifting capacity, the new Leg Encircling Crane enables OIM Wind to install the next and future generation’s wind turbine generators and foundations safely and efficiently. In highest position, the crane’s main hoist is capable of lifting the maximum load of 2,600mt with a hook height of approximately 165m above main deck level. 

For this project, Huisman will implement the same robust and proven technology on drive systems and slewing bearings as used for the LECs that the company has been delivering to the offshore wind market over the past years, e.g. to installation vessels Seajacks’ Scylla and Van Oord’s Aeolus. Huisman LECs are characterised by their lightweight, yet robust crane designs, with a high level of reliability, positioning accuracy and energy efficiency. 

The BT-220IU Wind Installation Unit has been designed by CIMC’s engineering office in Yantai, P.R. of China, and its subsidiary Bass Tech AB, Sweden, based on technical input and market knowledge from OIM Wind Ltd. The crane for the first unit will be built at the Huisman production facility in Xiamen, P.R. of China. Huisman will deploy its Skyhook Crane for the installation of the LEC along its quayside, scheduled for late 2022. 

Oddgeir Indrestrand, OIM’s Founder, President and CEO: “OIM have been working closely with Huisman over a long period, and we are very pleased to install Huisman’s ‘state-of-the-art’ 2,600mt Leg Encircling Crane, and more of their products aboard our upcoming newbuilds.” 

David Roodenburg, CEO at Huisman: “Huisman is excited to build upon the relationship with CIMC and OIM to deliver this Leg Encircling Crane and support the development of sustainable offshore wind projects. We have great respect for their entrepreneurship and are very proud to be participating in their ambitions for the future.” 

Features & benefits of the Huisman Leg Encircling Crane:

• A fully electrically driven system, resulting in high positioning accuracy, efficient energy use, reduced maintenance and high reliability.
• In-house developed slew bearing system, providing highly reliable and accurate positioning of the crane.
• A unique Lambda boom design ensuring a lightweight and stiff design.
• Stiff construction of the Lambda shaped boom leading to reduced motion at the crane tip.
• Small tail swing allowing for optimised utilisation of free deck space.