TTS Awarded SemiSubmerged Linkspan Contract

The outer end of the deck will be connected to a buoyancy tank via two columns. The linkspan will follow tidal movements and thus be easily connected to a double-ended vessel, supporting itself directly on the vessel.

During the transfer of rolling cargo and foot passengers the linkspan will follow the vessel’s movements and will work as a link between the main deck and the quay surface.

TTS Ports Equipment has also been awarded a contract for what will be the world’s largest automatic mooring system at the Port of Trelleborg in Sweden.

The contract will require TTS to design and supply an automatic mooring system to service one of port’s railway berths.

The system will be installed on Trelleborg’s railway ferry berth No 9, where the ferries connect via a stern ramp. The installation will be situated along the quay line at the outer end of the berth and will sustain the transverse forces created by vessels while berthed. Scandlines’ ‘Skane’ and ‘Mecklenburg’, both serving routes between Sweden and Germany, will be the first to use the system.

The automatic mooring system comprises a framework fixed to the quay, inside of which runs a vertically rolling unit activated by a hydraulic motor. The mooring hook is connected to the unit and is automatically centred within the fixed stand. Two hydraulic cylinders supply the mooring force. The system will be remotely controlled and its load monitoring and alarm functions will relay information to operations staff in real-time.

Designed to secure the ship quickly and release it instantly, the auto-mooring system will have significant benefits in terms of safety, economy and the environment, and the risk of injury to workers onboard ship and on shore during the mooring process will be eliminated. Only one operator will be required.