WindSpider launches a step-changing crane for use on increasingly larger wind turbines. The self-erecting crane has no weight or height limitations and can be used in very windy locations. The new solution significantly reduces the wind turbine’s life cycle costs for the global wind industry.
WindSpider is now preparing to start building the first full scale unit of its crane system in aluminium. It is tailored for installation and major component replacement of onshore and offshore wind turbines. The solution eliminates the relative motion between the crane and the wind turbine by using the turbine tower as support.
With an effective lifting capacity of more than 1500 tons, WindSpider solves some of the biggest issues in the wind industry and is prepared for the next generations of wind turbines, at a substantially lower cost. The solution allows for game changing offshore installation and maintenance of floating wind turbines on site instead of tow-to-shore for repairs.
The team behind the innovative technology has an extensive industrial experience and the solution is developed in close cooperation with several of the internationally leading wind operators. The company recently secured new equity from existing owners, such as the industrial group IKM, in addition to attracting new investors.
New industrial investor
WindSpider has entered into an industrial cooperation with Leirvik Group AS (Leirvik), marking the beginning of the first phase of building the first WindSpider unit. Leirvik will also invest in WindSpider and become a new industrial partner.
Leirvik and WindSpider have concluded a study evaluating the use of aluminium in the WindSpider structure and will proceed with engineering and design, according to the agreement between the two companies. Aluminium offers significant advantages, including substantial weight reduction, as well as improved production methods and maintenance. The cooperation will also consider tailor made aluminium profiles to be used in the WindSpider structure.
“WindSpider is very pleased to have partnered with a strong company like Leirvik. We see great strengths and synergies in combining the entrepreneurial spirit of WindSpider with Leirvik’s industrial experience as we begin our process of building the first WindSpider unit, which will follow the currently ongoing development of the control system and the simulator”, comments Hans Olav Hide, Chairman of the Board at WindSpider.
Through the cooperation, WindSpider will gain access to Leirvik’ resources, including engineering, support functions and systems, which will be very beneficial in the process of preparation, fabrication and testing of the first WindSpider unit.
“Leirvik is impressed by WindSpider’s system and believe it will be a gamechanger in the growing global wind market. Combined with Leirvik’s extensive experience and unique knowledge related to large constructions in aluminium, we see great synergies with WindSpider going forward and also significant benefits of building the WindSpider system in aluminium” says Helge Gjøsæter, CEO in Leirvik.
WindSpider has entered into an agreement with Leirvik for building the crane structure in aluminium. Pictured is Leirvik’s facilities at Stord, Norway.
WindSpider offers in situ major component replacement on floating wind turbines as an alternative to towing the wind turbines to port for repair.
About WindSpider
WindSpider is offering an innovative lifting solution for installation and major component replacement of wind turbines, onshore and offshore. The self-erecting solution, which uses the turbine tower as support, has several attractive features, including eliminating relative motion between crane and wind turbine, no turbine weight or height restrictions, compatibility with floating vessels, and good operability at windy sites. With an effective lifting capacity of +1500 metric tons, WindSpider solves some of the biggest issues in the wind industry and is prepared for the next generations of wind turbines at a substantially lower cost.
Contact persons
Kent Lynggaard Vinkel, CEO – phone +47 911 90 817
André Ølberg, CFO & Commercial Director– phone +47 45 20 39 67
About Leirvik
Leirvik is a world leading supplier in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of large aluminum projects and related services for customers operating both on- and offshore. The company was founded in 1946 and has since established itself as a reliable business in the industry. With its headquarters in Stord and 330 employees, Leirvik offers innovative and sustainable solutions within three market areas: Energy (O&G and wind), Aquaculture and Infrastructure.
For more information, please visit our website www.leirvik.com.
Contact person
Helge Gjøsæter, CEO – phone +47 915 71 259
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