Palfinger Marine sets new standards with a state-of-the-art transportation system for the maritime and offshore industry – the Offshore Passenger Transfer System (OPTS). The company will showcase a model of the facility for the first time at Nor-Shipping 2023 this June.
The OPTS is a 3D-compensated passenger and cargo transfer system. Designed specifically for marine applications in all kinds of environmental conditions, it compensates on all axes to absorb waves and other motions. It thereby facilitates the safe and efficient transfer of people and cargo between a moving vessel and a static offshore structure such as a wind turbine or drilling platform.
The system is an excellent tool to service fixed or semi-floating offshore installations or perform de-commissioning work offshore. When mounted on small, cost-efficient vessels, the OPTS makes it possible to carry out operations at reduced expense. It can also be installed on service operation vessels (SOV), since the OPTS is equipped with winch that allows the system to be used as a 3D compensated crane.
The OPTS comes in two variations – either as a fixed or mobile unit. The mobile version is the same size as a 40-foot container, which makes it easy to transport. Meanwhile, the fixed OPTS is designed for permanent installation on a vessel, meaning the base frame is not required and the hydraulic power unit (HPU) can be placed below deck.
“With the OPTS, Palfinger demonstrates its innovational strength and position as a provider of complete solutions. The system sets a milestone in the energy transition as it supports, for instance, infrastructure developments in the offshore wind industry or decommissioning activities in the oil and gas sector”, says Gunther Fleck, Vice President Sales & Service Region Marine at Palfinger.
