Tetrahedron pioneers a 130m prototype crane

With wind turbine generators getting bigger and bigger, new challenges for the wind installation industry have emerged. One of them is to simply lift higher on a compact Jackup.

The Tetrahedron, which has a 50m lifting height upgrade, enables a market entry to lift 8-15MW turbines for an existing jackup-vessel owner. Tetrahedron is founded on the principle to lift higher.

Novel design

The crane’s unique motion principle and structural force flow were verified during the build through extensive strain and deflection measurements conducted by TNO.

Its fully electric drive and control system boasts impressive features, including a swift and seamless luffing motion capable of reaching heights 40 metres higher than conventional cranes of the same footprint.

Designed with a slender jib for enhanced load maneuverability, particularly beneficial for delicate operations like blade handling, the crane also features real-time side-lead measurement to ensure stability when lifting wind-sensitive loads.

Initially intended for offshore wind turbine maintenance on compact jackup vessels, the Tetrahedron prototype crane remains onshore for demonstration purposes.

The decision to suspend offshore installation reflects current high demand for these vessels in accommodation and light works, altering initial market conditions.

Supported by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Topsector Energie, alongside investment from the Van Es Group, the project has achieved milestones with partners TNO, JackUpBarge BV and Shell GE.