ALE has completed the installation of wind turbine components for France's first floating wind turbine, located at Saint Nazaire.
The UK-headquartered heavy transportation and rigging specialist said the installation was part of pre-commissioning works for the Floatgen demonstrator, under development by Ideol. ALE was contracted to complete the mechanical and electrical installation of a 2 MW V80 wind turbine onto a floating foundation.
The turbine components, including two tower sections, a nacelle, hub and three blades, were lifted using 1,200-tonne capacity crane. A 100-tonne capacity auxiliary crane was also used to assist with the erection and lift of the tower sections.
ALE simultaneously performed ballasting operations on the floating foundation during the lifting operation, in order to maintain stability. Four submersible pumps were used to supply water to the ballast tanks situated at the corners of the foundation.
Once the wind turbine was mounted the electrical components and cables were connected and assembled, and the client's sensors and measuring equipment were installed.
Antonio Martin Garcia, project manager for ALE, said: "This was a unique job for ALE and the first time we have undertaken such a complex scope of work in this sector. We were able to provide a bespoke solution for this challenging operation and by providing experienced operators with expertise in each discipline, including the installation, ballasting and lifting, as well as coordination so we could ensure smooth project management."
