Project Description

The DLT Subsea Drill Platform Loadout and Lifting Operations at Blyth Port represented a critical phase in the mobilisation of offshore infrastructure. This operation involved the precision handling, lifting, and transportation of the DLT subsea drill platform, utilising specialised heavy-lift equipment to ensure safe and efficient deployment.

The project was executed in collaboration with Croft Rigging and Lifting, Osprey and Walker Tuxford Cranes, leveraging the three companies expertise in complex lifting solutions for heavy offshore structures. The operation required meticulous planning, risk assessment, and execution to facilitate a seamless transition from onshore staging to offshore deployment.

Scope of Work: Loadout & Lifting Operations

  • 1. Preparation & Staging at Blyth Port

    •Croft Rigging and Lifting, Osprey and Walker Tuxford Cranes were deployed to execute the platform’s lifting and load-out operations.
    •A synchronised tandem lift was utilised to safely maneuver the subsea platform from its staging area onto the designated transport vessel.
    •Specialised lifting gear, including spreader beams and heavy-duty slings, was used to ensure load stability and weight distribution.
    •The operation was executed under strict safety protocols, with real-time monitoring to mitigate any risks during the lift.
  • 2. Heavy Lift Operations

    • The components were carefully loaded onto a specialised installation vessel using heavy-lift cranes and transporters.
    • Precision planning ensured that each load-out operation was conducted efficiently to minimise downtime and optimize offshore installation schedules.
    • The jack-up vessel Seajacks Scylla was used for offshore turbine installation, leveraging its advanced lifting and positioning capabilities.

  • 3. Loadout & Securing for Transport

    • Following the successful lift, the platform was carefully positioned and secured onto the vessel for onward transportation.

    • Ballasting procedures were implemented to maintain vessel stability throughout transit.

    • Final inspections ensured compliance with marine transportation standards and offshore deployment requirements.

Key Achievements & Challenges

✅ Safe and efficient execution of the heavy-lift operation, meeting all project timelines.

✅ Seamless coordination between lifting teams, port authorities, and logistics specialists to minimise operational risks.

✅ Strict adherence to HSE regulations, ensuring personnel safety and environmental protection.

✅ Successful load-out and transportation of the DLT subsea drill platform to its offshore destination.

⚠️ Challenges included weather-related delays and complex weight distribution logistics, which were mitigated through real-time adjustments and contingency planning.

Conclusion

The DLT Subsea Drill Platform Loadout and Lifting Operations at Blyth Port showcased industry-leading expertise in heavy-lift engineering and offshore logistics. Through close collaboration between Croft Rigging and Lifting, Osprey and Walker Tuxford Cranes, as well as the project stakeholders, the operation was executed with precision, ensuring the safe and efficient mobilisation of critical offshore infrastructure. The successful completion of this project underscores Blyth Port’s role as a key hub for subsea and offshore energy developments.