Peters & May Group has acquired two patented load systems - Flat Rail and Cat Cradle - from Marine Invest.
According to Peters & May Group, the systems were developed over several years with the aim of reducing costs and increasing flexibility for out-of-gauge cargo loaded on container vessels.
Peters & May Group claims that as well as allowing larger cargo to move as out-of-gauge containerised cargo rather than breakbulk loads, the patented Flat Rail and Cat Cradle systems will speed up loading and open up new transhipment possibilities.
The Flat Rail system consists of two beams which are secured to the flatrack with twist-locks. With lifting points at the end of each beam, the complete unit can then be loaded using slings attached to the spreader of the container gantry crane.
Typical cargoes suitable for carriage using the Flat Rail system will range between 12 m and 15 m in length and have a width exceeding 2.4 m, with a 34-ton (30.8-tonne) capacity.
The catamaran boat cradle - Cat Cradle - system consists of a modular steel frame which accommodates the two pontoons to provide a stable platform.
The Veritas approved systems will be marketed by Bespoke Load Solutions, a company wholly owned by the Peters & May Group.
The new company will be spearheaded by Peters & May Group chief executive, David Holley, and Eric Ferchaud, the inventor of the technology, will be in charge of operations.
