15.09.2008

ALE launches 4,300 tonne lifting machine

Dutch-based ALE Heavylift has unveiled its new AL.SK90 machine capable of lifting loads up to 4,300 tonnes. The unit has been designed and built by ALE specifically for a petro chemical contract in Saudi Arabia with a view to being able to lift a 100 metre long, 3,000 tonne item.
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The SK90 was undergoing testing at the launch

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This is the first crane designed and built by ALE

With little modification - widening the base - the unit can offer an increased lifting capacity of 5,000 tonnes - AL.SK120. The units can be equipped with a standad winching system for weights up to 600 tonnes and a strand jack system for loads up to 5,000 tonnes.
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The luffing jib mechanism

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The SK90 has been designed to lift loads up to 3000 tonnes and 100 metres long

Design was started in December 2006 following a negative response for such a machine from the major crane manufacturers.
By the end of 2007 fabrication work involving 65 companies from around the world had begun.
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Up to 40, 100 tonne, specially reinforced open-top containers are used for ballast

At the launch the unit was lifting 3,000 tonnes at 31.5 metre radius on a 130 metre main boom. Other tests to be completed include 1,500 tonnes at 69 metres and 540 tonnes at 114 metres radius.
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The SK90 uses an A frame for increased stability

Initial designs focussed on a smaller SK48 but it was decided not to proceed with this unit in favour of the SK90 and SK120.
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Up to 90 degrees of slew is available

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The SK90 and SK120 can be equipped with a standard winching system for weights up to 600 tonnes and a strand jack lifting system for loads up to 5000 tonnes

A full report will be in the next issue of Cranes & Access magazine.