Successful first connection by SMST M series Telescopic Access Bridge

SMST in The Netherlands recently completed the M series Telescopic Access Bridge with active motion compensation, now rented by Offshore Windforce WIK VOF (joint venture between Boskalis and Volker Stevin). For the Wikinger offshore windfarm, the offshore company installs 70 wind turbine foundations and 6 offshore substation piles.

The modular M series TAB is suitable for a variety of vessels and operational situations. It is of compact design, transportable by normal container truck, can be mobilized quickly in one lift and has a large operational window. The system is remotely controlled by vessel’s crew, doesn’t need large generators and is inexpensive to operate. Due to these key assets, SMST Telescopic Access Bridge M series has gained a lot of interest from multiple offshore operators. Two bridges, of the first series of five that are being built, are contracted for rental use.

The M series is part of a range of four types of access bridge systems offered by SMST. These include the S, M, L and XL, which vary in length from a minimum of 4m up to 58m, and can be active or passive motion compensated. The S, M and L are primarily developed for walk-to-work applications, and the L and XL are more suitable for long-term connection between offshore structures and accommodation service vessels. All of the systems can be deployed for cargo handling and are available for purchase or rent.

To complete the equipment package for a multi-purpose vessel or service operation vessel, SMST offers: modular offshore cranes which can be equipped with various knuckle booms and active heave- and motion compensation, daughter craft, davits and crew transfer vessels (CTV).