All-Terrain Crane Deployment

Manitowoc fleet expansion facilitates high-reach lifting and improves operational efficiency for complex offshore gas platform construction projects in the Azerbaijan energy corridor.  www.manitowoc.com The heavy lifting and transportation firm HAREKET has deployed two Manitowoc Grove GMK5150XL all-terrain cranes to support the construction of an offshore gas platform in Azerbaijan, commissioned by AZFEN. This strategic fleet acquisition provides the necessary lifting capacity and reach required to navigate the logistical constraints of offshore infrastructure development within the Caspian energy corridor. Addressing Operational Constraints in Offshore Construction Offshore platform construction requires heavy lifting equipment that balances substantial reach with a compact footprint, particularly when operating on space-constrained sites. HAREKET encountered a need for equipment capable of executing specialized lifts at significant heights while adhering to strict project timelines. The primary operational objective centered on maximizing efficiency by reducing setup requirements, such as the use of jibs, which often complicate assembly in limited-access environments. Technical Performance of the GMK5150XL The GMK5150XL was selected for its 68.7 m main boom, which currently represents the longest reach available on a 150 t capacity, five-axle all-terrain crane. This capability allows the operator to perform high-altitude lifts using only the main boom, thereby streamlining site setup and minimizing time-consuming rigging adjustments. Beyond its reach, the crane's design provides the structural durability necessary for continuous operation in the demanding energy sector. The integration of high-precision control systems allows for the repetitive, heavy-duty lifting required for the structural assembly of offshore gas platforms. HAREKET identified this durability as a critical factor in ensuring project continuity and maintaining the integrity of the heavy lifting infrastructure required for subsequent applications, including wind turbine assembly and refinery maintenance. Strategic Integration and Dealer Support The procurement process was managed through KARUN, the regional dealer for Manitowoc. Beyond the initial sale, this partnership ensures comprehensive technical support, including specialized training, service, and the availability of replacement parts. This logistical support framework is essential for maintaining the operational readiness of the fleet in the Caspian region. Versatility in Future Industrial Applications The investment in these cranes extends beyond the immediate AZFEN project. The modularity and mobility of the GMK5150XL platform allow HAREKET to reallocate the equipment across various industrial sectors throughout Eurasia, the Middle East, and Africa. As the energy sector evolves, the ability to utilize a single asset across diverse environments—such as shipyards, wind farms, and industrial refineries—optimizes capital utilization and fleet efficiency. Cihan Bektaş, After-Sales Service Manager at KARUN, noted that the combination of a long boom and a compact footprint positions the crane as a primary solution for the evolving requirements of the energy and infrastructure sectors. Edited by Aishwarya Mambet, Induportals Editor, with AI assistance. www.manitowoc.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing