Modulift lifting frame used in Mocean Energy prototype testing

The Modulift custom lifting frame has a Working Load Limit of 50 tonnes

Aberdeen, UK-based wave power specialist Mocean Energy utilised a custom-made lifting frame from Poole, UK-based engineering company Modulift to help lift and lower a prototype 20-metre long, 38-tonne wave energy machine into the North Sea for its first ever sea-based test.

With the aid of the lifting frame the wave energy machine, called Blue X, has now undergone its first wet testing, load tests and ballast testing at Rosyth, Scotland.

The hinged wave energy machine has completed initial wet testing with the aid of Modulift’s custom lifting frame

Cameron McNatt, managing director and co-founder of Mocean Energy, outlined why it required a lifting frame, “Lifting is a critical operation for Blue X – the device is lifted on and off of transport, into and out of the water – sometimes over steep quaysides. And it’s complex – Blue X is a hinged machine that can be lifted in two configurations.

“Modulift provided a fit-for-purpose solution and delivered not just the lift beam but also the rigging and helped in the design process. We are extremely grateful for Modulift’s support throughout Blue X launch programme.”

Blue X has now been transported to Orkney for further testing at the European Marine Energy Centre.

Modulift added that it is looking to further expand its presence in the wave energy industry with both its off-the-shelf and custom lifting equipment.