Mammoet starts assembly of the world’s strongest land-based crane

Mammoet, a global leader in engineered heavy lifting and transport, has begun assembling the SK6000 at its Westdorpe facility in the Netherlands. This behemoth is poised to become the world’s strongest land-based crane, ushering in a new era for heavy lifting technology.

The SK6000 boasts unprecedented lifting capacity and reach, promising to revolutionize construction methodologies for large-scale projects. This innovative ring crane not only reflects Mammoet’s commitment to cutting-edge solutions but also prioritizes sustainability with its full electric operation. This feature aligns with the industry’s transition to cleaner power sources and reduces the carbon footprint of energy projects themselves.

The SK6000’s impressive capabilities include a maximum lifting capacity of 6,000 tonnes and the ability to handle components weighing up to 3,000 tonnes at a height of 220 meters. This immense power allows Mammoet’s clients to construct projects with larger, prefabricated components, significantly streamlining logistics, integration, and mobilization phases.

The crane represents a significant leap forward for the emerging energy sector. It facilitates the construction of next-generation wind turbine components and foundations, enabling the development of more efficient offshore wind farms. The SK6000 also unlocks new possibilities for safe and cost-effective modular construction in the nuclear industry. Similarly, the oil and gas sector can leverage economies of scale on a previously unattainable level for new build and expansion projects.

Drawing upon the proven design philosophy of Mammoet’s SK190 and SK350 series, the SK6000 is currently under assembly at the Westdorpe site. Following the mobilization of all components, initial work focuses on constructing the crane’s base frame, power packs, and control room. Mammoet is utilizing its own auxiliary cranes for this endeavor, including two 250-tonne crawler cranes and a 140-tonne Gottwald mobile harbor crane.

Koen Brouwers, Project Manager for the SK6000, said, “This is a thrilling new chapter for Mammoet and modular construction in heavy industry, as we see the SK6000 taking shape. It will offer a hook height, outreach, and lifting capacity far in excess of any crane on the market. We are excited to bring this groundbreaking technology to our customers, helping them achieve their project goals with greater efficiency and more sustainably.”