Allelys has achieved a significant milestone with the transport and installation of two units from Buckie Harbour to Rothienorman Substation. The intricate nature of the route into the site prompted Allelys to commence route enabling works in early 2022. This involved comprehensive measures such as route surveys, swept path analysis, and topographical surveys, leading to the design of a detailed route proposal.
The challenging route required vegetation removal, temporary relocation of street furniture and fencing, an extension of road width, and a 17.5m overbridging operation across Gardensmill Bridge. These preparations were crucial to enable the smooth transportation and installation of the cargo.
The cargo discharge from the vessel posed additional engineering challenges due to limited space. A solution was devised, involving mobilizing half of the girder frame, pushing the trailer to the end of the pier, and using a hydraulic gantry system for the installation process. The LG1550 crane was strategically rigged to lift and position the 352-tonne generator onto bog mats, allowing for the subsequent lifting and transportation of the 158-tonne transformer.
The generator, measuring 13m (l) x 4.1m (w) x 4.3m (h), was transported along the route using a 28-axle girder frame configuration. Meanwhile, the transformer, measuring 8.5m (l) x 3.4m (w) x 4.5m (h), was transported on a 16-axle girder frame.
Both units were transhipped to self-propelled modular transporters (SPMT) on-site to accommodate the limited space within the substation. The installation process involved utilizing a hydraulic gantry system for the generator and employing a jacking and skidding operation for the transformer.
Anthony Callachan, Head of Heavy Lift and Specialist Transport at Allelys, highlighted the company’s expertise in handling complex projects. “All of our heavy lift projects are engineered in-house, and we enjoy projects that test us,” he explained. The project faced unexpected challenges, including severe weather conditions during transportation. To address the impact of the weather on traction, Allelys implemented a contingency plan, halting within the road closure and mobilizing additional trucks for enhanced traction.
