Cluster project initiates first phase of building process

WindSpider, a project in Norway's Energy Transition cluster project portfolio, has announced a strategic partnership with Leirvik Group AS for the development of a groundbreaking crane designed for the installation and maintenance of large wind turbines. The WindSpider crane concept is addressing some of the largest challenges in the wind market: how to reduce cost and lower the environmental impact.

This innovation could be a game-changer for the wind industry, as it promises to significantly reduce life cycle costs while overcoming key challenges associated with current practices in the offshore wind industry.

The crane is constructed entirely from aluminum, marking a pivotal step forward in wind turbine technology.

Unlike conventional cranes, WindSpider's self-erecting design boasts no weight or height limitations, enabling its use in even the most challenging and windy environments. This versatility not only enhances operational efficiency but also opens up new possibilities for wind energy projects in offshore locations.

With an impressive lifting capacity exceeding 1500 tons, WindSpider addresses critical issues plaguing the wind industry, particularly in the installation and maintenance of next-generation wind turbines. By leveraging the turbine tower itself as a support structure, this innovative solution eliminates relative motion between the crane and the turbine, ensuring seamless operations even in adverse weather conditions.

The environmental benefits are substantial, in terms of reduced down-time of the wind turbines and low CO₂ emissions during lifting operations, as no purpose build large crane vessels are needed.

By leveraging Leirvik's expertise in large-scale aluminum projects, WindSpider aims to capitalize on the significant advantages of aluminum, including weight reduction and enhanced production methods.

Hans Olav Hide, Chairman of the Board at WindSpider, is enthusiastic about the collaboration: 

- WindSpider is very pleased to have partnered with a strong company like Leirvik. We see great strengths and synergies in combining the entrepreneurial spirit of WindSpider with Leirvik’s industrial experience as we begin our process of building the first WindSpider unit, which will follow the currently ongoing development of the control system and the simulator”

Helge Gjøsæter, CEO of Leirvik Group AS, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative potential of WindSpider's crane system in the global wind market.

In addition to its immediate applications in onshore and offshore wind projects, WindSpider's crane holds promise for the maintenance of floating wind turbines, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional repair methods.

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