Winches for polar cranes – maximum safety and durability for the HPC-2 project

Table of contents

Introduction: How we successfully implemented the HPC-2 project with customized lifting solutions
The challenge: Highest safety requirements and a service life of up to 60 years
The concept: Individually developed rope winches for maximum durability and safety
Technology and products: High-quality electric rope winches and customized safety solutions
Additional services: Long-term after-sales service and maintenance concepts
Success and benefits: Long-term partnership and expansion of the project
Conclusion: Investing in the future of lifting technology with customized electric rope winches

How we were able to successfully implement the HPC-2 project with customized lifting solutions

As part of the Hinkley Point C (HPC-2) project, an ultra-modern nuclear power plant in the south of England, PLANETA hoisting technology was faced with the challenge of equipping the polar cranes of the reactor domes with extremely robust and durable winch systems. The requirements were clear: the highest safety and durability standards had to be met because there must be reliable operation of the winches over a period of 60 years. Because we worked closely with the customer, we were not only able to develop innovative solutions, but also lay the foundations for a long-term partnership.

The challenge: Highest safety requirements and a service life of up to 60 years

The polar cranes in the reactor domes of HPC-2 are essential for the safe operation of the plant. In order to meet the high safety requirements, the winches had to have special functions such as an emergency lowering option and a mechanical speed limiter. In addition, an extremely long service life of up to 60 years, including the availability of spare parts, was required. Meeting all these requirements under extreme environmental conditions such as radiation and corrosion posed a particular challenge.

The concept: Individually developed rope winches for maximum durability and safety

PLANETA developed customized electric rope winches that are specially tailored to the requirements of HPC-2. To ensure durability, the winches were made from high-quality steel and special alloys that can withstand extreme conditions. A multi-layer anti-corrosion coating was applied to protect the winches against environmental influences. Because of simulations and tests, we were able to ensure that our winches function optimally even under the demanding conditions in the reactor domes.

Technology and products: High-quality electric rope winches and customized safety solutions

For the HPC-2 project, we used electric rope winches that are characterized by their robustness and precise control. They have an emergency lowering function that enables the load to be lowered immediately in an emergency, as well as a mechanical speed limiter for maximum operational safety. The winches have been specially developed to meet the high requirements for reliability and durability.

Additional services: Long-term after-sales service and maintenance concepts

An essential part of our offer was the development of a comprehensive maintenance concept that optimizes the service life of the winches. PLANETA not only provides regular inspections and spare parts, but also on-site training for the technical staff to ensure that the winches remain in optimum condition at all times. Our after-sales service ensures that the HPC-2 project can be operated safely and reliably for decades to come.

Success and benefits: Long-term partnership and expansion of the project

The successful implementation of the project led to HPC-2 gaining further confidence in PLANETA’s solutions. As a result, a second set of winches was reordered and we are now also in the pipeline as the preferred supplier for the next reactors. Thanks to our reliable products and comprehensive service, PLANETA has been able to build a long-term partnership with HPC-2.

Conclusion: Investing in the future of lifting technology with customized electric rope winches

PLANETA was once again able to demonstrate its expertise in the development of durable and safe lifting technology in the HPC-2 project. With our customized electric rope winches, we not only met the customer’s requirements, we exceeded them. Thanks to our collaborative approach and innovative solutions, we have been able to secure a long-term partnership with HPC-2. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and find out how you too can benefit from our customized lifting solutions.