Cavotec has secured an order for its MoorMaster system – the largest single order for the company’s automated mooring technology in Europe to date.
The order is for a new bulk handling application in Norway and according to Cavotec indicates the potential for its automated mooring systems at ports worldwide.
The 18 MoorMaster 200B units are for international minerals group LKAB's new iron ore berth in Narvik, northern Norway, on behalf of the PEAB construction and civil engineering group, according to a Cavotec press release.
The scope of the order includes manufacture of the mooring units, installation and comprehensive technical support. The units will moor bulk carrier ships of up to 185,000 DWT and 305 metres in length.
The technology is already in use at three bulk handling berths in Western Australia – it is the first MoorMaster bulk handling application in Europe and the first within the Arctic Circle – the units will be built to withstand the harsh winters and demanding operational conditions common to its location.
The MoorMaster system uses vacuum-based automated mooring technology eliminating the need for conventional mooring lines.
The vacuum pads are remotely controlled and recessed in, or mounted on the quayside or pontoons. The system is operated by a via a hand-held radio remote control unit, either on shore or on board ship.
The LKAB facility at Narvik ships 15-20 million tonnes of iron ore annually.
