Ship&Offshore | Issue 02/2017
Compensation system widens offshore load transfer windows
MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has launched a new crane compensation system for offshore ship-to-ship load transfers which, it says, offers substantially larger operating windows as well as safer and faster load transfers. The new compensation system employs a motion reference unit on the deck of the secondary vessel. This transmits motion data to the crane on the primary vessel via a high-speed redundant wireless link. Combining motion data from both vessels, the system calculates and applies the winch compensation necessary to minimise hook movement at the load-handling zone on the secondary vessel. The system features precise tension and position control for accurate load hook-on, pick-up landing and hook-off. Safety is improved for the deck crew working in the load-handling zone. Load pick-up and landing is precise, fast and smooth. It allows the operator to employ a less conservative approach to calculating the maximum load that can be safely handled in any given sea state.