ABP upgrades Southampton workboat crane

Associated British Ports (ABP) has invested in a new marine deck crane on board Spartina, one of the Port of Southampton’s operational workboats, to help support safe, efficient harbour operations.

The new HS.Marine AK 30 HE4 deck crane was supplied, installed and commissioned by Southampton-based Marine Cranes, replacing the vessel’s existing crane at the end of its operational life.

“ABP were clear from the outset. The new asset had to be of the highest quality, and reliable in service with low through life costs,” said Ben Pym, managing director of Marine Cranes.

“We now look forward to supporting a local asset through its working life under our planned maintenance programme.”

Marine Cranes developed a bespoke adaptor solution that allowed the new crane to use the vessel’s existing foundation and bolting arrangements, avoiding structural modifications to Spartina. The project also drew on the Solent maritime supply chain, with local businesses providing expertise in fabrication, naval architecture and marine surveying.

The crane has a safe working load of 1,050kg at a maximum outreach of 14.66 metres. It features hydraulically continuous slew capability, radio remote control and a flame-metallised finish designed to provide long-term corrosion protection in demanding marine conditions.

Following installation, the crane underwent a load test at 125% of its safe working load on board Spartina.

Chris Evans, Marine Maintenance Team lead at ABP Southampton, said investing in modern and reliable equipment was essential to maintaining marine operations supporting the UK’s leading gateway for global trade and Europe’s number one cruise turnaround port.

The investment forms part of ABP Southampton’s wider programme to maintain modern and resilient marine assets. The Port of Southampton handles £65 billion of goods annually, connecting UK businesses with markets worldwide.