INEOS Forties Pipeline System (FPS) has enhancing its offshore operations by acquiring the advanced RL 650 crane from Liebherr. This procurement aims to bolster the material handling capabilities of the Unity Platform, a vital installation operated by INEOS FPS in the North Sea.
The RL 650 crane stands out for its suitability for Not Permanently Attended Installations (NPAI), making it an ideal choice for the Unity Platform’s requirements. This crane, part of Liebherr’s renowned Ram Luffing (RL) series, boasts a compact design coupled with maintenance-friendly features, ensuring efficient and reliable performance.
Following meticulous evaluation and technical discussions, INEOS FPS opted for the RL 650 as a replacement for the existing crane on the Unity Platform, which has faithfully served for over 30 years. The decision underscores Liebherr’s reputation for delivering robust and enduring solutions tailored to the demanding offshore environment.
The RL 650, equipped with cutting-edge technology, offers a maximum lifting capacity of 15 tonnes and an impressive outreach of 30 meters. These specifications make it well-suited for handling various tasks on the offshore platform, ranging from provisioning supplies to facilitating maintenance operations.
In a collaborative effort between INEOS FPS and Liebherr, a kick-off meeting was held at Liebherr’s manufacturing site in Rostock, Germany. The engagement involved key stakeholders from both organizations, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring the seamless integration and functionality of the new crane within the Unity Platform’s operations.
Jason Duncan, Project Lead at INEOS FPS, expressed confidence in the decision, highlighting the advantages of the RL series and emphasizing the importance of reliability in supporting the strategic objectives of the Unity Platform. He remarked, “The Unity Platform is a strategic asset to the UK, and reliability is important to our customers and our business.”
The selection of the RL 650 signifies a strategic investment by INEOS FPS in enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the uninterrupted functionality of the Unity Platform. This acquisition aligns with Liebherr’s commitment to delivering high-quality, tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of its clients in the offshore sector.
The RL series, backed by Liebherr’s extensive experience and expertise in offshore crane technology, embodies innovation and reliability. Designed to excel in challenging marine environments, these cranes offer superior stability and versatile load-handling capabilities, making them indispensable assets in offshore operations.
Matti Basan, Senior Sales Manager Offshore Cranes at Liebherr, emphasized the longstanding partnership between INEOS FPS and Liebherr, built on trust and mutual respect. He stated, “The relationship between INEOS FPS and Liebherr is one based on trust, and the acquisition of the RL 650 reflects our commitment to delivering value and reliability to our esteemed clients.”
The RL 650 stands as a testament to Liebherr’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the offshore industry. As INEOS FPS prepares to integrate this advanced crane into the Unity Platform, it signifies a significant milestone in advancing operational capabilities and ensuring the continued success of offshore endeavors in the North Sea.