Allelys has triumphed in the transport and installation of two units from Buckie Harbour to Rothienorman Substation. The success of this project, which involved intricate planning and adaptability, underscores Allelys’ expertise in heavy lift operations.
Commencing in early 2022, Allelys embarked on extensive route enabling works to navigate the complexities of the route into the Rothienorman Substation site. Thorough route surveys, swept path analyses, and topographical surveys laid the foundation for a detailed route proposal. The challenging journey required meticulous vegetation removal, temporary relocation of street furniture and fencing, and an impressive 17.5m overbridging operation across Gardensmill Bridge.
The discharge of the cargo from the vessel presented its own set of challenges. Limited space necessitated a creative engineering solution. To tackle the space constraints hindering simultaneous crane and girder frame positioning, Allelys mobilized half of the girder frame and pushed the trailer to the pier’s end. The LG1550 then lifted the 352-ton generator and positioned it onto bog mats. Subsequently, a 158-ton transformer was lifted onto 12 axle lines of SPMT for transportation to temporary storage. This intricate dance continued with the derigging of the LG1550 to accommodate the second half of the girder frame.
The generator, a colossal 13m (l) x 4.1m (w) x 4.3m (h) unit, traversed the route on a 28 axle girder frame configuration. Meanwhile, the transformer, measuring 8.5m (l) x 3.4m (w) x 4.5m (h), rode on a 16 axle girder frame. Both units seamlessly transitioned to Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMT) on-site, facilitating navigation within the confined space of the substation.
Anthony Callachan, Head of Heavy Lift and Specialist Transport at Allelys, highlighted the team’s adaptability in facing unforeseen challenges. Severe weather conditions during the generator’s transportation posed a threat. A steep, waterlogged road impacted equipment traction. Quick thinking led to the implementation of a contingency plan, involving a road closure and the mobilization of extra trucks for improved traction.
In Anthony Callachan’s words, “All of our heavy lift projects are engineered in-house, and we enjoy projects that test us. We have significant knowledge and experience within the team, and this enables us to tackle complex projects such as this one.”
This project not only showcased Allelys’ engineering finesse but also their ability to navigate adverse weather conditions, ensuring the safe and successful delivery of crucial cargo to Rothienorman Substation.