Barge Master Launches Its Motion Compensated Gangway

Barge Master has launched its new motion compensated gangway. 

“While we are already known for our motion compensated lifting, customers asked us to deliver the complete package: one supplier for both cargo and people transfer,” said Martijn Koppert, CEO of Barge Master. “Based on the input of a team of industry experts we designed the gangway, taking into account experiences with the products already available on the market.”

The company highlighted the gangway’s modular design, which overcomes the limitations that the existing systems have, allowing it to be used on various projects, since every project is different in location, wave spectrum, vessel used and offshore facilities.

The model 3.0 compensates vessel motions in significant wave heights (Hs) up to 3 meters by actively telescoping, slewing and luffing the bridge. Tip compensation allows for landing on any type of offshore facility, without modification of the landing area. The standard pedestal interface is easily mobilized on any type of vessel. It is designed to be compact with a small, lightweight footprint and low power consumption. Built-in safety features like redundancy of all critical components and intuitive operator control allow it to be operated safely by a single operator. The model 4.5 is based on the model 3.0 with the motion compensated pedestal module added, offering an increased workability to Hs=4.5m. This model can be placed at any location on the deck while maintaining performance, Barge Master explained.

Another feature for both models is the integrated lifting winch for cargo transfer up to 1.000kg that has Barge Master’s onboard lifting mode built in. A height adjustable pedestal, two bridge lengths and several access options are some of the available modules, the company added.

“By combining the gangway and a crane on one vessel for example, the hydraulic power unit, motion sensors, operators, spare parts and maintenance services can be shared, leading to lower costs. Besides that, the systems function as a backup of each other as well: the gangway is able to lift cargo and the crane is able to transfer people,” Martijn said.