Australian technology for moving crane loads in high-wind areas gets $178,000 grant

A solution for safely stabilising and installing heavy wind turbines in high-wind areas has earned a $178,000 grant from the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre.

Verton’s Windmaster builds on its existing knowhow for load lifting, rotation and placement, using gyroscope-based, remote-controlled systems.

R&D on the new product involves collaboration between the lead participant and heavy lifting and transport specialist Mammoet, marine engineers Van Oord, and Australian SME suppliers

“Through the AMGC-backed project, we scaled up the loads we can handle with the Everest system, from 25-tonne capacity to deploying a proof-of-concept for our Windmaster solution for testing at Brisbane Airport which will be capable of significantly higher loads,” said Patrick Taylor, Project Manager at Verton.

“The proof-of-concept test will help us develop the best product for high-wind environments, where we use the wind against itself, rather, than try to fight it.”

Dr Jens Goennemann, Managing Director at AMGC, said Verton was a strong example of an Australian manufacturer developing innovative solutions for a global market.

The offshore wind industry is estimated to be worth $US 1 billion by 2040, according to modelling by the International Energy Agency.

“The winds of change are blowing in global energy generation and Verton is a role model for other companies looking to leverage its experience in new sectors both here and abroad, while tapping into opportunities in the growing renewable energy market,” said Goennemann.

“By collaborating with best of breed researchers and industry partners to identify business opportunities, Verton is set to export locally developed craning and lifting solutions into numerous international markets.”

Verton is also involved in a two-year, $4.4 million Innovative Manufacturing CRC-backed project with robotics specialists at Queensland University of Technology.

Picture: supplied

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