JSI Alliance has recently wrapped up the intricate transport of two colossal ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, each weighing 934 tonnes and towering at an impressive 72.45 meters, from Cobh, Cork, Ireland, to Greenock, Scotland. The operation, executed with precision by the heavy-lift vessel Jumbo Jubilee, highlights the company’s expertise in complex logistics and heavy cargo transport.
Moving oversized cargo like these cranes is no small feat. Every detail of the operation was meticulously planned and executed to ensure safety and efficiency. The engineering team took proactive measures to overcome the challenges posed by the high center of gravity, adding 166 tonnes of counterweight to stabilize the load during lifting. Each step of the process, from pre-engineering calculations to the final lift, reflected JSI Alliance’s commitment to excellence.
Using the vessel’s own two 900-tonne lifting capacity cranes, the fully assembled STS units were carefully loaded onboard. Once secured with Liebherr-designed bracing, the cranes made their way across the sea in two separate voyages. Upon arrival, they were offloaded smoothly, thanks to expert coordination and favorable weather conditions.
The cranes, built by Liebherr in Kerry and assembled at the DSG dockyard in Cobh, symbolize a leap forward for Greenock’s port infrastructure. At a cost of £25 million, these machines are set to enhance operational capabilities, paving the way for increased global trade opportunities.
Charles Cowan, UK Director at JSI Alliance, expressed pride in the project, noting, “From the initial approach in September 2022, I am pleased to see the technical strength of the JSI Alliance at work in the safe transportation of these two STS cranes.”
Denis Doolan, Transport/Shipping Manager at Liebherr Container Cranes, shared insights into the project’s challenges and triumphs: “Delivering the Greenock cranes presented unique challenges due to their weight and high center of gravity. Using a lift-on/lift-off method, combined with our engineering expertise and collaboration with JSI, ensured a successful operation.”
As Greenock prepares to welcome these new giants to its port, the impact of JSI Alliance’s efforts underscores the critical role of precision logistics in advancing maritime infrastructure.
