For offshore wind developers, precise pile installation is a constant challenge. Handling massive structures in tough conditions demands more than just equipment; it requires innovation.

MPI Offshore faced the task of managing heavy monopiles, essential for turbines, which need accurate positioning, especially in deep waters.

Houlder stepped in to design and install hydraulic "gripper" arms on the MPI Discovery vessel. These arms provide horizontal restraint for piles weighing up to 650 tonnes, measuring 65 metres long, and 7 metres in diameter, ensuring stability in waters up to 40 metres deep.

User-friendly, the arms are controlled from a single console with an X-Y joystick and touch screen. They stow securely when not in use, allowing for safe transit.

Our team collaborated closely with MPI Offshore, overseeing the project from concept to commissioning, and ensuring structural integrity through rigorous design checks.