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Enter the LEEA Awards 2022

Wednesday, 30th March 2022

The LEEA Awards is a great opportunity to give your company and colleagues the recognition they deserve. Winners will be announced during the ‘party of the year’ at the LEEA Awards Ceremony, which will be held at P&J Live in Aberdeen on the evening of 5 October 2022 – Day One of LiftEx.

Why enter an award?

In addition to being recognised as among the best companies in the industry by fellow members and customers, successful entrants will receive valuable editorial coverage in The Lifting Engineer publication, both in print and online.

You will raise your profile as a successful business leading in your award category, while also rewarding your teams and celebrating your achievements at the prestigious Awards Dinner.

Entries will gain endorsement from an independent panel of industry experts, and if chosen as a winner, you will receive the award directly from our special guest – who will be revealed soon. The award categories are as follows:

1. Best Accredited Training Scheme Member
2. **Best Contribution to GLAD 2022
3. Best Digital Innovation
4. Outstanding Apprentice
5. Rising Star
6. Craig Morelli Award – Accredited Training Scheme – Best Trainer
7. Kevin Holmes Award – Excellence in People Development
8. **LEEA Member of the Year
9. **LEEA CEO’s Award
10. **Robert Gordon University Engineering Award
11. **Stuart Everitt Award for Outstanding Contributions to LEEA

**These awards are not open for nominations. Winners will be selected by a LEEA /Member panel.

Making your application for LEEA Awards could not be easier. To reach the registration page, visit: https://awards.leeaint.com/. You’ll find advice and guidance how to open your account and start making your nominations. The portal enables you to track your entries and save them to add to and submit later.

You can also add a supporting document, in a PDF format, to back up your statement. Once submitted, you will receive a reference number and the option to print your entry for your records. You can apply for multiple categories if you wish.

The nomination portal will close at 23:59 on Monday 1 August 2022.

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Glasdon Announces Goal to Reach Net Zero by 2035

Wednesday, 23rd March 2022

Leading UK manufacturer Glasdon have announced their pledge to reach Net Zero by 2035 with Scope 1 and 2 emission targets to be achieved by 2025.

The Glasdon Group of Companies aim to demonstrate environmental sustainability and champion social responsibility in every way possible. A passion for the environment and supporting local and wider communities has inspired the business to integrate sustainable and ethical practices into their day-to-day activities, something they are continually assessing and improving.

Over the years, Glasdon, who specialise in Marine life-saving equipment have invested considerable resources into understanding their impact on the environment. This has resulted in many improvements to buildings and working practices.

Glasdon Group Founder and Chairman, Donald J Sidebottom MBE, FCIHT, said:

“As a market leader in our field, we understand the responsibility we have to improve our environmental and social impact, and our Net Zero goals are a huge factor towards achieving this. We have work to do to reach Net Zero, but with the right dedication and experience we are confident that we will hit our 2035 target.

We welcome the challenge and look forward to sharing our responsible business journey along the way!”

Committing to reaching Net Zero is something that has and will impact on all areas of the business, including premises, supply chain, business processes, distribution and more. Continuing to work alongside employees, customers, and suppliers, Glasdon aim to lead the way in seizing every opportunity to drive down emissions and hit their goal of reaching Net Zero by 2035.

Glasdon are also inviting readers to subscribe to their newsletter and in exchange they will pledge to plant a tree on their behalf. Learn more about the Glasdon Net Zero pledge and how to their new tree planting initiative here: https://uk.glasdon.com/

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Rotec Deliver Vessel Overhaul at A&P Falmouth

Tuesday, 22nd March 2022

Rotec's Electrical Mechanical Services team have recently carried out significant maintenance and overhaul works on the vessel Norbay at A&P Falmouth.

Originally built in Rotterdam in 1994, Norbay and her sister Norbank were two of the first of a new generation of ‘super freighters’. The vessel is currently used as a car, passenger and freight ferry in the Irish Sea for P&O Ferries. 

Specialists in alternators and generators, Rotec’s Electrical Mechanical engineers have completed a significant overhaul project on the vessel Norbay, on-site at A&P Falmouth. The work included:

  • On-site Aft Bow Thrust Overhaul inc. internal inspection, replacement bearings, rebuild, testing and full works report
  • Port Alternator Clean and Bearing Change
  • Main Vehicle Deck Aft Cargo Fan Overhaul inc. collection from dockside to Rotec workshop inspection, steam clean, re varnish, new bearings, dynamic balancing, testing and reinstall
  • Cargo Fans motors overhaul.

The work carried out will ensure the continued performance and availability of the vessel. Greg Sandy, Business Development Manager and part of Rotec’s Electrical mechanical Services team said: 

“Rotec are proud of their strong relationship and partnership with A&P Group in Falmouth, which sees us providing quality services and solutions.

“Our extensive range of services and products, combined with the experience and knowledge of our technical team has given us the well-deserved reputation for being a trusted provider of quality Electrical Mechanical Services.”

Rotec have been trading for over 30 years and take pride in delivering project-specific solutions, sustainable results and added value to their clients. 

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

3000T jack-up barge arrives at HMNB Portsmouth

Monday, 21st March 2022

OverWater (part of The SMS Group), with a permanent presence on HM Naval Base Portsmouth, has won a significant contract to support KBS Maritime with the operation and maintenance of a new, state-of-the-art 3000T jack-up barge called the ‘Typhoon 3000’.

The SMS Group, specialise in dry dock vessel and ship repair.

OverWater will be working to commercialise the asset, via commercial charters, when it’s not required within HMNB Portsmouth.

The Typhoon 3000 is a Ravestein platform of the following dimensions: 60m LOA, 28m beam, 800T on deck crawler crane capacity, 3000T lift capacity, with 52m spud legs.

It is an extremely capable multi-role semi-submersible jack-up barge which can also be utilised as a dry dock, lift platform or transport barge.

The asset has numerous commercial marine applications and will be homeported in the Solent.

Dave Chaffers, General Manager for The SMS Group, said: “The principal purpose of the barge is to obviously support the RN, but by working in close partnership with the various stakeholders we look forward to commercialising the jack-up not only within the Solent but also within UK and European waters.

“She offers immense capability to the marine civils, dry dock, and commercial refit and repair markets; not to mention the heavy lift, and ports and harbours sectors.

“As a jack-up she’s definitely a ‘premium’ solution and tremendously capable.”

Chris Norman, the Managing Director of The SMS Group, said: “The jack-up barge is a unique piece of kit, but perhaps more importantly our commercial offering is somewhat unique too.

“Not only can we now support programmes of work which involve either heavy lift or dry dock operations, we can obviously support the works to be undertaken onboard the platform.

“Our core engineering capability is now fully mobile. This places us uniquely in the market, with a turn-key technical and engineering solution very much available to civil, defence, and commercial customers alike.”

Mr Chaffers added: “The Typhoon 3000 give us ship lift capacity, in the Solent, up to 3000T.

“It also gives us the ability to move the platform, as required, to any one of our eight sites.

“This capability is unrivalled in the UK, and now available for charter via OverWater – our focus now is on managed, turn-key, engineering solutions.”

KBS Maritime is a joint venture between infrastructure asset management and services provider KBR and BAE Systems.

It delivers ambitious, modern and enduring change to the Portsmouth base infrastructure and provides world-leading fleet support for the Royal Navy and the UK.

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

New marine sensing and monitoring instruments introduced at Oceanology International

Monday, 21st March 2022

New marine sensing and monitoring instruments introduced at Oceanology International

new Bathy2 – an enhanced, robust integrated instrument to provide reliable and accurate density corrected depth data up to 6000m
new miniIPS2 and uvSVX – with unique interchangeable pressure heads, these next-gen sensors benefit users who work at different depths
new SWiFT CTD and SWiFT CTDplus – designed for a seamless workflow, these user-friendly profilers deliver improved accuracy and versatility to those requiring CTD measurements

A ‘must see’ for visitors to Oceanology International was the showing of Valeport’s new Bathy2, an exciting evolution in the collection of bathymetric data, which was on the Valeport stand ahead of its formal release later this year.

Also in the spotlight on the environmental sensors manufacturer’s stand, were four innovative instruments designed with ease of use at their core, where a much improved user experience is now available alongside the highest quality, precise data.

As high-tech oceanographic equipment goes, the Bathy2 is designed to meet customer bathymetric requirements for a reliable, accurate and robust instrument with more functionality to suit specific operations up to 6000m in depth. An enhancement of the popular Midas BathyPack, the new Bathy2 uses state-of-the art sensors to generate Sound Velocity and Density profiles for precision depth and height data.

This evolution brings together the benefits of density-corrected output directly from one instrument, alongside the flexibility of third-party pressure sensor input and Valeport interchangeable pressure modules to allow users enhanced accuracy at different depths.

Improving the user experience has been a key driver in the development of this superior bathymetric instrument and the addition of a dedicated data output for INS allows bathymetric data to be efficiently communicated directly with users’ own operational software.   Other helpful benefits include the flexible pressure options using Valeport’s interchangeable pressure sensors, these field-swappable sensor heads make it easy for users to select the correct pressure for their working depth bringing benefits of exceptional reliability and a higher degree of accuracy.

Designed for surveyors requiring bathymetric data from ROVs, underwater vehicles or drop structures, Bathy2 also has an external pressure sensor input option for Digiquartz referencing.  This comprehensive bathymetric package offers other useful parameters such as Altitude and Bathy2 interfaces with the Valeport VA500 altimeter and other popular third-party makes.

Data transfer is via Ethernet or RS232/RS485 interfaces and the Bathy2 Interpreter function via the Valeport Configure software allows data out on extra ports in industry standard formats, this facility also allows for an atmospheric pressure data input.

Valeport will launch the Bathy2 later this year

miniIPS2 – The smart miniIPS2 underwater pressure sensor with accuracy to 0.01%, offers a cost-effective solution to vehicle pilots who require highly accurate depth information in real time.

This innovative pressure sensor, with a unique interchangeable pressure module, allows the user to quickly and easily change the pressure transducers whilst in the field, with no tools required, to maximise operational specific depth requirements.

uvSVX – The compact uvSVX is designed for underwater vehicles where space is at a premium and it  delivers calculated salinity and density data, along with SVP as standard. Like the miniIPS2 it also features field-swappable sensor heads, has a depth rating of 6000m and delivers 0.01% accuracy.  The interchangeable pressure transducer, with integral calibration is easily changed in a couple of minutes without opening the instrument and is available in 10, 20, 30, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 600bar variants.

SWiFT CTD and SWiFT CTDplus

The latest addition to Valeport’s popular SWiFT profiler family, the SWiFT CTD profiler provides enhanced accuracy and versatility for those requiring CTD measurements. The SWiFT CTD profiler delivers survey-grade sensor technology coupled with the convenience of Bluetooth® wireless technology, rechargeable battery and an integral GPS module to geo-locate each profile.
Using Valeport’s high accuracy sensor technology to combine sensors for multiple profiles in a single drop, the SWiFT CTD features a new fast response temperature probe and operates down to 500m as standard. With an operational battery life of up to five days and the convenience of charge via USB, the SWiFT CTD is intended for offshore, coastal, harbour and inland environmental and hydrographic survey use.
A CTDplus version is currently available with Turbidity at present and combines CTD measurements and Turbidity observations, in addition to providing computed Salinity, Density and Sound Velocity.

Guy Frankland, Valeport Head of Marketing commented: “Oi is a great opportunity for a proper get-together with the marine community.  We’re delighted to be back at this long-established event and sharing our latest sensor innovations with our customers and industry contacts. We’re particularly looking forward to taking feedback on our Bathy2 instrument and its capacity to offer increased survey-grade performance, as well as getting Valeport’s unique range of interchangeable pressure sensors into the hands of potential users so they can get a real sense of the streamlining benefits they bring.”

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Important partnership set to continue

Monday, 14th March 2022

Rotec Hydraulics Ltd are happy to announce that their long-standing partnership Somerset County Cricket Club (SCCC) will continue for at least another 12 months.

The two organisations can reveal that an extension to the existing sponsorship agreement has been signed, which will see Rotec continue as the Club’s Principal Royal London Cup Partner.

Rotec Hydraulics Ltd specialise in marine hydraulic power packs.

Investing in and supporting the local community is a keystone is Rotec’s ethos. The company, who recently sponsored the Bristol Children’s Hospital’s Grand Appeal charity, are delighted to have extended their contract at SCCC and support the club which is within walking distance of their head office and largest service centre in Taunton, Somerset.

The deal will once again see Rotec branding appear on the front of Somerset’s Royal London Cup matchday shirt, whilst their company logo will continue to feature prominently on the pitch covers at the Cooper Associates County Ground.

Following the extension of the partnership, Somerset CCC’s Commercial Director, Caroline Herbert said: “We are delighted to be working with Rotec again in 2022. Their name is synonymous with our 2019 Royal London Cup triumph at Lord’s in 2019 and we are hopeful that further success is on the horizon.

“Last year’s Royal London Cup saw a fresh new wave of talent make a name for themselves and this exciting and dynamic side reflects the nature of our relationship with Rotec.

“We have developed an outstanding working relationship with Paul Prouse and his team over the last few years, and we thank them for their continued support of the Club.”
Established in 1979 as a supplier of hydraulic hoses and couplings, Rotec Hydraulics has gone from strength to strength. The company is now one of the leading specialist providers of hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical mechanical products and engineering services to all industry sectors throughout the UK and internationally.

Paul Prouse, Rotec Managing Director said: “We are thrilled to be continuing our strong relationship with SCCC. Our head office is based within walking distance of the Cooper Associates County Ground and as loyal followers, we relish supporting the Club. 

“Our business has seen real benefits over the years from our close working partnership, including the use of the Club’s fantastic facilities throughout the year and coverage we gain from the Royal London Cup. 

“On the pitch we have an exciting and enthusiastic team whom we believe will do a brilliant job for the County this season and hopefully reward those on and off the pitch with the trophies they justly deserve.”

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Igus energy chain developed to help generate environmentally friendly shore power

Friday, 11th March 2022

Igus energy chain developed to help generate environmentally friendly shore power.

The e-loop energy supply series which increases safety and reduces procurement and installation time has been expanded to suit static applications, including shore power supplies.

Shore power offers the provision of electrical power to a ship at berth so that its main and auxiliary engines can be shut down. Stricter guidelines are forcing ports to implement more environmentally friendly technologies and the Igus-Loop series allows not only the reduction of air pollution and noise but also minimises the vibration from vessels while at berth.

Igus developed the e-loop as an alternative to the service loop – a product with no defined bend radius and which, in worst case scenarios, can break. Another drawback to the service loop is that when it is serviced or repaired the complete system must be replaced since the cables are sealed into the system.

Justin Leonard, a UK Director of Igus, the global manufacturer of energy chain systems and polymer plain bearings, said: “The e-loop multi-axis energy supply system combines the advantages of a polymer energy change with a high-strength rope. The rope absorbs the tensile forces inside the chain and transmits them to the mounting brackets. This means that the cables remain completely free of strain.

“Due to its success, we recently expanded this e-loop series to include a version with crossbars across every second link. It is lightweight and cost-effective, withstands vibrations and shocks and is specifically developed for static applications such as shore power, enabling energy to be supplied from the mast to the power container. This saves on the fuel that would otherwise be used to power vessels while in port, dramatically reducing air pollution.”

The e-loop readychain system, harnessed by igus and tested with a Megger VLF Sinus 34kV, has been found to save the user almost 90% procurement and 68% assembly time. In addition, Igus has a guarantee of up to 36 months depending on the configuration of the e-loop, and when the machine and system reach the end of its service life, Igus can take it back and recycle it.

Igus now offers its energy chains with special connectors and cables as fully tested ready chains. The e-loop is also available with rollers and handle modules so that it can be easily moved at quay facilities. It guides cables safely at a defined bend radius and even withstands shocks and impacts.

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

Dales Marine Services Ltd celebrates the successful launch of a new vessel build in Aberdeen

Thursday, 10th March 2022

Dales Marine Services Ltd (Dales Marine), a leading UK Ship repair & maintenance company, celebrates the launch of its new vessel in Aberdeen harbour.

In June 2021, Dales Marine Services Ltd secured a contract to fabricate a new multi-cat style vessel platform to support the Aquaculture sector. Build of the new vessel, named the Réalt na Farraige, commenced in July 2021.

Réalt na Farraige was lowered into the water for the first time on the 5th March 2022 at the Dales Marine’s facilities in Aberdeen, with quayside support services provided by Whytes Crane Hire and McIntosh Plant Hire.

The Dales Marine’s Aberdeen dry dock last saw a new vessel build over 33 years ago when Hall Russell operated the dock.

The launch of the Réalt na Farraige is a monumental occasion and represents a significant project for Dales Marine. It has delivered several firsts for the business, including the first vessel they’ve built and the first vessel to be built in Aberdeen for a long time.

The vessel’s initial sea-water launch marks the completion of over eight months’ work by the Dales team. Over thirty technicians and engineers, with trades including platers, welders, electrical engineers, and hydraulic engineers, have been utilised in the build. The project has also involved Dales Marine’s Aberdeen-based apprentices. Gary Norrie, Project Manager, has overseen the complete project, including managing the build process and the vessel’s launch, and will oversee both the harbour and sea trials and the client handover.

“Today is a very proud moment for myself and my team here at Dales Marine. I have worked for Dales Marine Services Ltd for the last 14 years, and today has to be the most memorable of all those years. It has been a test for each and every one of us during the build over the last 8 – 9 months. From the day the first flat steel plate was brought into our workshop to the last brushstroke of paint applied, it has been a challenge and an exciting one for us all. The experience and skill utilised on this build by the team have been second to none.” Said Garry Norrie, Project Manager at Dales Marine Services.

Gary continued: “Today marks a memorable milestone in Scottish shipbuilding history; the Réalt na Farraige is the first built vessel here at Dales Marine Services Ltd and the first vessel launched here at this shipyard in over 33 years. Exciting times lie ahead at Dales Marine Shipyard in the shipbuilding industry. I want to thank our skilled team that helped make this project become a reality and get us to where we are today and also a special thanks to McIntosh Plant Hire & Whytes Cranes for the assistance with today’s launch.”

After entering the water, Réalt na Farraige was moored in its final berth before she completes her harbour and sea trials, following which she will sail, to the Dales Marine site in Greenock for the final handover to the client.

“The Réalt na Farraige build has been an exciting opportunity for Dales Marine Services Ltd. The company is renowned for its expertise and experience in vessel engineering and repurposing vessels. This project has been a fantastic opportunity to showcase the Dales Marine’s skills that have been required to build this new multi-cat style vessel. It has been a great privilege to be part of this project. The vessel is a testament to the outstanding work undertaken to complete the build within an eight-month window.” said Michael Milne, CEO, Dales Marine Services.

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

The Wight Shipyard Co. secures new contract to build the future of hybrid technology for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

Thursday, 10th March 2022

Cutting-edge East Cowes shipbuilder, the Wight Shipyard Company, secures contract for two new vessels determined to hit carbon net-zero targets and deliver the quietest, most efficient passenger ferries in the world.

Britain’s leading aluminium shipbuilder, The Wight Shipyard Co. has secured the new build of two passenger catamarans for operation on the ever-growing Thames commuting and sightseeing line for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. Building on the shipyard’s proven technology and sustainability credentials and employing some of the highest-skilled personnel in modern shipbuilding based at the iconic Wight Shipyard in East Cowes, the new contract is a significant coup for both the business and the Isle of Wight.

Speaking about the contract, Peter Morton, CEO of The Wight Shipyard Co. commented: “We are delighted that Uber by Thames Clippers has awarded us the contract to build the next generation of Clipper-class vessels utilising the very latest battery-power technology and re-charging options. The Wight Shipyard Co. has built a reputation for meeting and exceeding the demands of a global client base, especially in terms of sustainability where our concentration on weight reduction, build quality, hydro-dynamics and efficiency yields real, tangible results and savings. With the fusion of modern drive technology, we have a highly compelling proposition today.”

The hybrid design will allow the new Uber Boat by Thames Clippers vessels to operate solely on battery power to transport both commuters and sightseers along the Thames throughout the Capital’s central zone between the Tower Bridge and Battersea Power Station piers and recharge while using bio-fuel power outside of Central London. The technology is not reliant on shore-based charging with the new boats using excess power from the bio-fuel engines to re-charge their batteries for the Central London stretch.

Furthermore, the vessels built by The Wight Shipyard Co. will be some of the quietest ever seen in the passenger boat industry and will stand as future-proofed examples of environmental excellence. Sean Collins, Founder and CEO of Uber Boat by Thames Clippers recently commented:

“For over 20 years we have been at the forefront of innovation for the river marine sector. We are committed to supporting sustainable growth, infrastructure and economic development on and around the river to endorse the river’s importance to London as a form of transport. As a business, we are continuing to embrace the emerging technological advances that will see us continue to develop our fleet and infrastructure, thereby supporting a sustainable future in our industry.”

The Wight Shipyard Co. has been a trusted builder of Thames Clipper vessels since 2017 when the shipyard received its first commission. Since then, three of the innovative, high-spec and highly durable Thames Clippers have been built and are a much-loved part of London’s waterway as well as being a vital and eventually net zero carbon commuting option.

And it’s a partnership that is determined to achieve environmental targets as Sean Collins continues: “Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is committed to achieving net zero with all new builds by 2025 and for its wider fleet, infrastructure and environmental footprint by 2040. We’re looking ahead with this hybrid design, ensuring easy conversion to green hydrogen or another renewable energy source – something we’re also focusing heavily on with the new projects we’re undertaking thanks to recent DfT funding. It is the next step in our strategy to net zero and, ultimately, tailpipe zero.”

Peter Morton is unequivocal in his support for the approach: “At The Wight Shipyard Co. we are firmly on the side of those forward-thinking owners and operators that are revolutionising the industry.

Our employees have true global expertise in delivering on the net zero challenge for shipbuilding and we are very proud of what is being achieved, as well as receiving awards such as the Queen’s Award for Enterprise, that are the rubber-stamp on our innovative and cost-effective approach to modern shipbuilding.

We thank Sean and his team at Thames Clippers for not only recognising that The Wight Shipyard Co. is at the forefront of the aluminium shipbuilding industry but for trusting us to deliver their future. We won’t let them down.”

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
SubSalve USA Schwer Marine Fittings Hystat Hydraulic Cylinder Manufacturers BP Norse Marine Southbay Marine Services

DLM Load Cells Measure Centre of Gravity

Monday, 7th March 2022

Dynamic Load Monitoring (DLM), of Southampton, UK, hired four, 100t capacity compressive load cells to Harlyn Solutions for centre of gravity testing.

Harlyn, of Blyth, UK, specialises in engineering-led heavy transport. It moves large, complex pieces of equipment for clients that are often global leaders in their fields of expertise such as marine load testing. In this instance, it was necessary to calculate the centre of gravity of a Pipe Line End Termination (PLET) prior to transportation.

The load cells on hire included DLM’s cabled compressive load cells calibrated to 100t. These products are manufactured using high-strength stainless steel and are particularly suited to rugged environments, specifically vessel weighing and hydraulic lifting operations. Moreover, DLM has a centre of gravity software package to be used in conjunction with its TW-3.0 range of products. It features a tare function, various weight units, and the ability to calculate and visualise the centre of gravity dynamically using up to 12 TW-3.0 load cells.

The load cells combined with a 600t capacity crane, 12m-long spreader beam, self-propelled hydraulic trailers, climbing jacks, and an assortment of other ancillary equipment to complete the task. The load was weighed four times and recorded in real time by Harlyn’s in-house software on a laptop, in addition to DLM’s TW-2.0-S standard handheld display; the results correlated within 0.25% across the tests.

Hamish Adamson, managing director at Harlyn, said: “Engineers from the equipment [PLET] manufacturer provided a centre of gravity estimate and a window; we designed our lifting arrangement to suit the extremes of this window, and had all equipment on site. Once we weighed the equipment and had a known centre of gravity, we could choose the preferred rigging gear from the different engineered options to obtain a flat lift—in other words, to avoid there being a tilt on the cargo.”

Adamson explained that short-term hire of the equipment was preferable because the load cells arrived fully calibrated and effective. “Given the nature of our work, such technologies can sit on the shelf for a period of time, whereas renting them means they’re delivered and ready to use immediately,” he said.

Adamson reconnected with Martin Halford, managing director at DLM, at the recent RenewableUK Global Offshore Wind event, but the companies have frequently collaborated on similar hire agreements in the past. Adamson’s primary business at the event was to network with wind energy professionals, having endured a period away from in-person eventing due to the Covid outbreak.

Halford said: “Our standard compressive load cells have been a stable design now for over 20 years and have widely been used across a variety of industries. Although a stable design, we have made significant improvements and added features to them over the years, which include the latest development of a COG [centre of gravity] compatible software to pair with our TW-3.0-S handheld display. It is great to be able to help Hamish and his team with his load monitoring requirements and it is exciting to see how his company is growing from strength to strength.”

Adamson said: “[DLM’s] range covers a vast amount of equipment, and the load cells are simple to use. These compressive load cells again performed well, and the results gave us the information we needed to complete safe transportation for the customer. They are our go-to provider for this type of equipment, and we will continue to use the rental option for future applications.”

He added: “Business is good; we’re busy fulfilling offshore wind, onshore civil engineering, and oil and gas contracts. We were founded as the pandemic hit, but we have managed to grow during challenging times and have assembled a great team that delivers projects across the world—including Europe, the Middle East, and Far East.”

Liferafts International DiveCo Marine Civils Sealane Maritime Engineering
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