Engineered heavy lifting and transport specialist Mammoet has started assembling the world’s strongest land-based crane, the SK6000, at its Westdorpe facility in the Netherlands.
The project marks a new era in heavy lifting technology, says Mammoet, with the ring crane offering a maximum capacity of 6,000t and the capability to lift components up to 3,000t to a height of 220 metres.
Mammoet says this means its customers can build more efficiently in larger pieces, shrinking the logistics, integration and mobilisation phases of projects.
The SK6000 ring crane will offer full electric operation. According to Mammoet, this means it facilitates the transition to cleaner power sources while driving down the carbon impact of energy projects themselves.
Mammoet says the crane will be used to lift latest generation offshore wind turbine components which are getting ever bigger to achieve higher yields.
Mammoet also expects the new crane will be utilised in the oil and gas sector, building on the popularity of its established SK190 and SK350 series cranes, and in the construction of new modular nuclear facilities. .
Following mobilisation of all parts to Mammoet’s Westdorpe site, initial works include assembly of the crane’s base frame, power packs and control room. Mammoet’s auxiliary cranes are supporting the build, including two 250-tonne crawler cranes and a 140-tonne Gottwald mobile harbour crane.
Koen Brouwers, project manager for the SK6000, said: “This is a thrilling new chapter for Mammoet and modular construction in heavy industry, as we see the SK6000 taking shape.
“It will offer a hook height, outreach, and lifting capacity far in excess of any crane on the market. We are excited to bring this groundbreaking technology to our customers, helping them achieve their project goals with greater efficiency and more sustainably.”
Assembly of the SK6000 is scheduled to be completed during Q4 2024.
