Pile Installation, Upending and Removal
From first insertion to final removal, the PLT handles every stage of the pile's lifecycle with the same secure, controlled grip. Below is how it performs at each stage of the job.
Stage 1
Installation and Upending
Whether inserting a pile vertically or upending it from horizontal, the PLT provides secure, controlled handling throughout installation, with the same tool adapting to the method the job requires.
What You Need to Know
- MECHANISM: Hydraulically actuated taper-locks grip the pile wall under vertical load. Once pre-tension is applied, the lock holds independently of hydraulic pressure - fail-safe by design.
- PILE TYPES: Either flanged or open-ended piles can be lifted - the tool grips the pile wall internally, so the flanged joint used to bolt pile sections together is never relied on for lifting.
- INSERTION METHOD: The PLT can be inserted horizontally, using a centre of gravity bracket as a lifting arm, or lowered vertically into the pile, depending on the installation method being used.
- HORIZONTAL UPENDING: Capable of upending a 220 tonne pile from horizontal position.
- OPERATING DEPTH: Standard operation via umbilical to 200m, with an optional ROV-OPERATED PACKAGE: extending capability to 200m–3500m.
- BATTER TOLERANCE: Rated to a maximum pile true batter of 11.77° from vertical at a 600 tonne lift.
Stage 2
Pile Removal
The same tool that installs a pile can also recover it, giving operators a single system for both ends of the pile's service life rather than sourcing separate installation and removal equipment.
What You Need to Know
- MECHANISM: The same fail-safe taper-lock grip used for installation, rated to the same load capacities.
- APPLICATION: Suited to decommissioning or repositioning work - the same tool used for installation, operated in reverse, with no separate removal equipment required.
Optional Upgrade
Upgrade With Our Seal Module
An optional seal module upgrades the PLT to enable suction-assisted installation and pressure-assisted removal, improving control when handling suction piles specifically.
What You Need to Know
- FUNCTION: Enables suction-assisted installation and pressure-assisted removal - suction is supplied by a vessel-based vacuum pump, with the seal module sealing the pile to make this possible.
- COMPATIBILITY: Fits the standard PLT body as an upgrade - no need for a separate tool.
- SIZING: 34" - 84"
Specifications
Pile Lifting Tool (PLT) Specifications
Each Pile Lifting Tool is engineered to the platform or jetty pile it's built for. The specifications below cover the size range, load ratings and certification standards behind every build.
What You Need to Know
- SIZE RANGE: 34" - 84" as standard, other sizes available on request
- SAFE WORKING LOAD (VERTICAL): 600 Tonne
- PROOF LOAD TEST: 800 Tonne
- HORIZONTAL UPENDING CAPACITY: 220 Tonne
- MAXIMUM WATER DEPTH: 200m standard umbilical / 200m-3500m with optional ROV package
- MAXIMUM PILE TRUE BATTER: 11.77° from vertical at 600T lift
- CERTIFICATION: DNV Standard for Certification No. 2.22 (Lifting Appliances)
- TESTING: Client or third-party witnessed Factory Acceptance Test (FAT)
Local Everywhere
Instead of flying people and equipment all over the world, we've set up fully-functional bases in nine strategic locations. These bases enable us to employ local technicians, work with local manufacturers, and invest in local economies. They're a significant investment, but our regional bases are key to delivering the best possible service for our clients - and minimising the environmental impact of our work.
