Sarens has successfully completed a landmark decommissioning project at the Wergeland Base in Gulen, Norway, involving the lifting, transport, and re-immersion of four massive footings. This project showcased not only Sarens’ engineering expertise but also its ability to execute record-breaking lifts under challenging conditions.

A Record-Breaking Achievement

The standout feature of the project was the use of Sarens’ LR12500-1.0 crawler crane to lift each footing, weighing an extraordinary 1850 tonnes. Lifting such a weight with a single crawler crane is an exceptionally rare feat in Europe and may well be a record-breaking achievement. While SGC cranes are capable of such lifts with ease, achieving this with a crawler crane highlights Sarens’ capability to handle some of the world’s heaviest loads.

Tailored Solutions and Precision Execution

The project, commissioned by Wergeland, involved:
• Lifting the 25m-high, 27m-wide footings out of the water.
• Transporting them to a quay using Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs).
• Re-immersing the footings.

Sarens was selected for its cost-efficient and highly specialised solution. By extending the contract of the LR12500-1.0 crane, already deployed at the site, Sarens ensured seamless execution while minimising costs for the client.

Technical Details

The operation required:
• The LR12500-1.0 crane configured with an 80m main boom, a 35m superlift radius, and 1,240 tonnes of superlift weight.
• SPMTs with multiple axle lines for precise transport.
• A 2000-tonne shackle, a standard but exceptionally large component, designed to meet the unique demands of the project.

Challenges and Triumphs

Executing this project posed several challenges. The footings, floating at sea, required rigging amidst record-breaking rainfall, which tested the team’s resolve. Despite these hurdles, Sarens’ experienced team, led by Project Manager Willem Ditmer and Project Engineer Wim de Keersmaecker, completed the operation on schedule and without compromise to safety.

Sustainability in Action

As a decommissioning initiative, the project highlights Sarens’ commitment to sustainability. The footings were scrapped and recycled, supporting greener practices while contributing to the local economy.

A Milestone for the Team

Wergeland Base’s capabilities were further proven by this milestone achievement, showcasing it as an ideal site for high-complexity operations. The successful completion of this complex and record-breaking lift stands as a testament to Sarens’ ingenuity and dedication. It marks a significant milestone for the operators and reinforces Sarens’ position as a leader in heavy lifting and transport solutions.

Watch the video here!