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From Concept to Completion

Innovative 30-Meter Modular Frame Redefines Scour Protection

30-Meter Modular Frame

13th August, 2024

Durham Lifting recently achieved a significant milestone in the field of scour protection through an exciting partnership with Pipeshield International. This collaborative project required a ground-breaking approach to design and engineering, ultimately resulting in the creation of a bespoke 30-meter modular frame.

From the outset, the project presented distinct challenges that demanded both creativity and technical excellence. Site constraints limited the lifting equipment that could be deployed, leading to the request for a larger modular frame capable of lifting and positioning multiple rows of mattresses simultaneously. This change not only streamlined the lifting process but also facilitated quicker on-site installation.

Our experienced team of designers and fabricators collaborated closely with Pipeshield engineers to validate and implement the new specifications, bringing the concept to life under tight timeframes. The outcome is a landmark achievement in modular lifting frame design. By adapting to a 30-metre span, the frame enabled the longest installation of scour protection mattresses in a single lift-an accomplishment that would have been impractical with a standard 15.metre frame. This innovation not only saved time on-site but also reduced operational complexity, minimised environmental impact, and enhanced safety by decreasing the number of lifts required.

Our Multisec Modular Spreader Beams provided essential support for the 30-metre frame, ensuring that each mattress row was installed with the precision and stability required. The spreader beams evenly distributed the load across the structure, optimising balance and allowing for safe handling of the increased frame length and weight.

For Pipeshield, the primary goal was to ensure that the installed mattresses could reliably protect critical infrastructure from erosion caused by tidal flows and propeller wash. To achieve this, a rigorous Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) study was conducted to simulate the impact of combined tide and propeller action on the protection scheme. Supported by prior flume tank testing, the CFD study confirmed that Pipeshield’s scour mats-reinforced with their proprietary N2 edge block technology-could withstand extreme hydrodynamic forces.

This testing verified that the mats would remain securely in place, ensuring the long-term stability of the scour protection installation even in challenging marine environments. With their ability to resist shifting and maintain coverage, these mats provide an advanced solution for safeguarding subsea infrastructure.

Amanda Gardiner, Managing Director at Durham Lifting, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to have collaborated with Pipeshield on this project. Our team’s expertise in lifting solutions, combined with Pipeshield’s industry-leading knowledge, has resulted in a product that sets new standards for the industry.”

The success of this project highlights the power of collaboration between Durham Lifting and Pipeshield International, as well as the innovative capabilities within both companies. Together, we addressed complex challenges with precision, efficiency, and a forward-thinking approach, setting a new benchmark in both lifting and scour protection.

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