RN Crane System Completed

HMS Ark Royal and HMS Invincible have been kitted out with the new system, which comprises four overhead travelling cranes fixed to the underside of the main deck in the hanger. Now in service, the system is working effectively, enabling Royal Navy engineers to carry out vital maintenance on Sea Harrier jets and Merlin helicopters.

Later this year, SCX will manufacture an identical system for HMS Illustrious under the contract awarded by MoD project managers Houlder Offshore Engineering Ltd.

The requirement for precision handling and the gruelling environment in which the crane system operates has involved SCX in developing and testing a number of unique features designed to offer maximum safety and control prior to installation.

All four cranes on HMS Ark Royal have safe working loads of three tonnes, with a smooth handling system for precision movement of components.

To counteract the effects of the ships’ motion, the cranes are fitted with a rack and pinnion system to ensure a safe working angle up to 10º to the horizontal.

To prevent loads from falling, the crane hoists have been designed to slow down to a halt when they are overloaded and, to safeguard against main brake failure, a secondary brake system has been fitted.

The system is controlled from a pendant station incorporating all the controls. Movement is restricted to a single axis of motion at any given time.

MJ Information No: 17456