Modulift and LMS Support Offshore Wind Industry With 660t Load Test
Supporting Offshore Wind Operations
Modulift spreader beams and LMS load cells have been used together by Safe Lifting Europe B.V. to support the successful load test of the MPI Resolution in the North Sea. As offshore wind infrastructure continues to expand across Europe, proof load testing remains an essential part of maintaining safe and reliable lifting operations.
For the project, a MOD600/800 spreader beam was used in a 16-metre configuration, equipped with two 500-tonne LMS load cells positioned beneath the spreader. The full lifting arrangement also included shackles and lifting accessories, providing a controlled setup from start to finish.
This combination gave Safe Lifting Europe both the structural lifting capability and the load measurement accuracy needed for a proof load test of this scale. The project demonstrates how Modulift and LMS products work in unison, combining proven below-the-hook lifting equipment with accurate load monitoring technology.
The MPI Resolution is the world’s first purpose-built, self-elevating jack-up vessel designed specifically for installing offshore wind turbines, foundations and transition pieces. Built in 2003 and operated by Van Oord, the 130-metre-long vessel is used heavily for operations, maintenance and heavy component replacement across European wind farms.
The vessel’s crane, with a rated lifting capacity of 600 tonnes, was tested at 110% proof load, resulting in a total test load of 660 tonnes. The project required a carefully planned lifting arrangement, combining high-capacity below-the-hook equipment, accurate load monitoring and a complete rigging package to ensure the test was carried out safely and efficiently.
High-Capacity Load Testing
Load testing is a critical process used to verify crane performance, confirm lifting capacity and support safe operation in demanding heavy lifting environments.
To support the MPI Resolution test, high-capacity 475 m³/h water pumps were used to efficiently fill and empty the test barge. This helped ensure the operation was carried out smoothly and within schedule.
A Complete Load Testing Solution
Safe Lifting Europe provided the full load testing package for the project. By supplying the spreader beam, load cells, rigging equipment and pumping system, the team was able to manage the complete process and allow the client to continue operations with confidence.
“Completing a 660-tonne proof load test on a vessel like the MPI Resolution requires the right equipment, careful planning and full control throughout the operation,” said Giovani Vroegop, General Manager at Safe Lifting Europe B.V. “By combining the MOD600/800 spreader beam with LMS load cells and our complete rigging package, we were able to deliver a safe, efficient and controlled test from start to finish.”
“When our products are used together like this, the benefit is clear. Modulift provides the engineered lifting capability, LMS provides the load monitoring confidence, and the customer gets a complete solution that performs on site. That’s the real value of having complementary technologies within the group” said Andy Charlesworth, pewag UK Group Sales Director
The successful project highlights the value of combining specialist lifting and monitoring equipment for complex load testing applications, while demonstrating the wider capability available across the pewag UK Group product ranges.