Work has started on the assembly of the world’s strongest land-based crane, the SK6000, at Mammoet’s Westdorpe facility in the Netherlands, offering unprecedented lifting capacity and reach, and opening up new construction methodologies for large projects.
The crane will offer full electric operation which means it enables the transition to cleaner power sources while driving down the carbon impact of energy projects themselves.
Sheer lifting power
The SK6000 has a maximum capacity of 6 000t, and is capable of lifting components up to 3 000t to a height of 220 metres. Its sheer lifting power allows customers to build more efficiently in larger pieces, shrinking the logistics, integration and mobilisation phases of projects.
The crane provides a huge leap forward for projects in emerging energy sectors, supporting the continued constructability of next-generation wind turbine and foundation components needed to achieve higher yields from offshore wind farms. It also unlocks new modular construction options for nuclear facilities, with increased cost-effectiveness and safety.
Massive economies of scale
In the oil and gas sector, the SK6000 helps new build and expansion projects to benefit from economies of scale on a level never before seen. It builds on the design philosophy of Mammoet’s SK190 and SK350 series, which are proven in the market.
Following mobilisation of all parts to Mammoet’s Westdorpe site, initial works include assembly of the crane’s base frame, power packs and control room. Mammoet’s auxiliary cranes are supporting the build, including two 250-tonne crawler cranes and a 140-tonne Gottwald mobile harbor crane.
Taking shape
Koen Brouwers, Project Manager for the SK6000, says, “This is a thrilling new chapter for our company and modular construction in heavy industry, as we see the SK6000 taking shape with completion scheduled for Q4 2024.
“It will offer a hook height, outreach, and lifting capacity far in excess of any crane on the market. We are excited to bring this groundbreaking technology to our customers, helping them achieve their project goals with greater efficiency and more sustainably.”
