TTS wins comprehensive contract for new Stena port
Stena Line (UK) has recently announced plans to move its operations and ferry service from their present location in Stranraer, Scotland to a new port facility 10km north of the town, and TTS Port Equipment AB has secured a contract to design and build the entire ship-to-shore interface for the port, including linkspans, fenders, auto-moorings and an elevated walkway.
The adjustable upper and lower deck linkspans will be designed for use by a variety of ropax vessels using a sternfirst approach, with the option of bow approach given within the flexible solution. Both linkspans will be operated by means of hydraulic cylinders housed in fixed towers, one each side of the linkspans.
The three lane lower deck linkspan will have an overall length of 24m. The upper deck linkspan will consist of a 25m concrete wedge, together with steel fixed access ramps and movable ramps. An adjustable ramp will be elevated by means of hydraulic cylinders mounted onto the lower deck linkspan. A lifting ramp will be hinged to the adjustable ramp and rest on the berthed vessel. The upper deck linkspan will offer the possibility of movement along the ship to maximise the port’s flexibility in vessel accommodation. A stop and positioning fender will be installed on the bankseat and supported by the lower deck linkspan. The fender will be adjustable for different vessel types and will act as a guide to fix the vessel’s position.
An automatic mooring system designed for ropax vessels will be installed along the pier. This will consist of several auto-mooring devices, each consisting of a vertical moving unit and two hydraulic cylinders to create the mooring force.
TTS will also design and build an elevated passenger walkway, connecting the ships to the terminal area. The walkway will consist of four fixed sections together with an elevating gangway and hoisting platform, operated by hydraulic cylinders. The hoisting platform will include a telescoping pod that will rest on the vessel in free floating mode and will be continually surveyed by a PLC. There will be guide towers on the pier, which will act as a support structure for the hoisting platform. The total operational window of the entire walkway will be approximately 6m in height and 23m along the quay.
The relocation of ferry services to the new facility at Loch Ryan Port will prepare the area for a viable and competitive future, as well as satisfying traffic demands and cutting ferry journey times and fuel consumption.
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