MacGregor, part of Cargotec, has introduced the 3D Motion Compensator (3DMC), a flexible retrofit device, which is designed to enhance the load-handling precision of an offshore crane.
“MacGregor’s standard active heave-compensation (AHC), supplied through a crane’s winch, compensates for a vessel’s vertical movements. However, when very accurate load positioning is required, such as landing loads on small fixed platforms, the 3DMC is a fantastic new option,” said Alexander Nürnberg , senior vice president, Technology and R&D, MacGregor.
The 3DMC can be fitted to the knuckle jib of new or existing MacGregor subsea/offshore cranes. It compensates for the roll, pitch and heave motions of the vessel to minimize any movement of the load in relation to a fixed point in space, the company explained.
“MacGregor recognizes that any investment must deliver distinct operational advantages, particularly in today’s challenging economic climate,” added Nürnberg. “The 3DMC retrofit option does exactly that. It allows a shipowner to expand the load-handling capabilities of a crane far beyond its original limitations.”
“This means that the crane and therefore the vessel can be used for more assignments and owners will be able to bid on a wider range of contracts,” said Gaute Sjusdal , director of Advanced Offshore Solutions, Global Lifecycle Support at MacGregor.
The 3DMC makes use of the existing hydraulic power unit and control system of the crane. The 3DMC/crane interface is designed so that the unit can be mobilized to a crane with the relevant fittings.
The 3DMC is fully incorporated into the crane’s control system so that all operations are performed from the existing interfaces in the crane cabin. When not required, the 3DMC remains fixed to the side of the crane’s knuckle jib allowing normal lifting operations using the main and whip winches, the company added.