Porsgrunn, Norway – Cranemaster has unveiled the world’s largest Passive Heave Compensator (PHC) and shock absorber, designed to handle dynamic loads of up to 3500 tonnes for offshore lifting operations.
The new model, CM3-3000T-5500-A, was created with Heerema Marine Contractors to meet the demands of large-scale offshore wind projects.
Offshore structures increasing in size and weight present challenges beyond traditional crane capacity, where dynamic forces from vessel motion and load interaction pose the primary challenge.
Recognizing the magnitude of future installation projects, Heerema partnered with Cranemaster to develop a system managing these significant dynamic forces.
Developed for Record-Scale Offshore Projects
This collaboration leveraged Heerema’s experience in complex offshore projects and Cranemaster’s four decades in shock absorption, resulting in a system stabilizing ultra-heavy loads while protecting cranes and structures.
The new PHC system absorbs shock and controls vertical movement during lifting, enhancing control and safety under challenging offshore conditions. By reducing peak loads, it expands operational weather windows and safety margins.
Already deployed in offshore wind projects, the unit is scheduled for further installations this year.
Unlocking New Lifting Capabilities
Beyond its 3000-tonne capacity, Cranemaster will introduce a parallel deployment capability for the units, doubling the system capacity to 6000 tonnes. This allows for safe lifting of large offshore structures such as jackets, topsides, and heavy subsea infrastructure.
Supporting the Next Generation of Offshore Installations
The CM3-3000T-5500-A enables:
- Ultra-heavy lifting up to 3000T – Allows handling of massive structures, reducing offshore time and risk.
- Large-scale decommissioning and salvage – Facilitates intact removal of structures without cutting.
- Offshore wind installations – Provides pile run protection for larger foundations during installation.
- Improved safety – Lowers stress on equipment by reducing peak loads and motion.
Proven through Full-Scale Testing
Before deployment, the CM3-3000T-5500-A underwent rigorous testing in Norway, including dynamic response and structural verification under simulated conditions, ensuring compliance with international standards.
Setting a New Benchmark for Offshore Lifting
Manufactured in Norway, the CM3-3000T-5500-A is the latest in Cranemaster’s longstanding solutions for offshore lifting challenges. For over 40 years, Cranemaster has enhanced safety and control in heavy lifting. The increasing scale of offshore wind and decommissioning projects shows how collaboration with engineering specialists can unlock new industry capabilities.
About Cranemaster
Cranemaster specializes in passive heave compensation and shock absorber technology for offshore lifting, widely used in the offshore energy sector to improve safety and control.
About Heerema
Heerema Marine Contractors is a leading offshore contractor executing complex projects with a fleet of large crane vessels, specializing in the installation and removal of offshore structures in the energy industry.
For inquiries, contact:
Espen B. Johansen
CEO
[email protected]
+47 4586 8899
Learn more about the 3000T Passive Heave Compensator →
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Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz