Dale’s Engineering

  

 

CASE STUDY: Precision Handling for Critical Subsea Infrastructure

IDI Services Delivers Specialized Transport and Logistics Solution for Dales Engineering in Peterhead

Client Profile

Dales Engineering, a leading fabrication and engineering company based in Peterhead, Scotland, required specialized heavy lift and transport services for a critical subsea infrastructure module. With over 30 years of experience serving the oil and gas, renewables, and marine sectors, Dales Engineering relies on partners with the technical expertise to handle high-value, precision-engineered equipment throughout the final stages of production and delivery.

The Challenge

This project involved the handling, transport, and delivery of a sophisticated subsea isolation valve (SSIV) skid, presenting several significant challenges:

  • The yellow-framed SSIV structure contained sensitive valve components requiring careful handling
  • The project required precise weight and center of gravity calculations for safe transport and installation
  • Multiple location transfers were needed between fabrication, painting, and shipping facilities
  • The significant dimensions and weight of the SSIV skid required specialized transport solutions
  • The final delivery to the quayside needed to meet strict shipping schedules
  • The project timeline was critical to meet offshore installation windows

The Solution

IDI Services designed a comprehensive approach to meet all aspects of this complex logistics challenge:

Phase 1: Technical Assessment and Planning
Our engineering team conducted a detailed assessment of the SSIV skid, working closely with Dales Engineering to understand structural characteristics, handling points, and transport requirements. Comprehensive planning documents were developed for each phase of the operation, including detailed risk assessments and method statements.

Phase 2: Jacking, Skidding, and Weighing Operations
Using our specialized jacking system, we carefully lifted the SSIV skid from its fabrication supports. Our hydraulic skidding system was then employed to precisely position the structure onto weight measurement equipment. Multiple measurement points were utilized to accurately determine both the gross weight and the exact center of gravity (COG) – critical information for subsequent handling and offshore installation.

Phase 3: Transport to Paint Facility and Return
Following weighing operations, we deployed specialized transport equipment to transfer the SSIV skid from Dales Engineering's main facility to the paint shop. Our team maintained continuous monitoring during transport, ensuring the structure experienced no excessive movement or stress. After completion of the painting process, we managed the return journey to Dales for final commissioning and testing.

Phase 4: Final Delivery Using SPMT
For the critical final transportation to South Base Peterhead for shipping, we utilized our Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT) system. This advanced transport solution provided:

  • Precision maneuverability despite the SSIV's substantial dimensions
  • Even weight distribution to prevent structural stress
  • Computer-controlled hydraulic suspension for stable transport
  • The capability to navigate the route challenges between Dales and the South Base

Throughout the final journey, our team maintained constant communication with both Dales Engineering and the shipping provider, ensuring perfect alignment with the vessel loading schedule.

The Results

The project was completed with outstanding outcomes:

  • Accurate weight and center of gravity calculations, critical for offshore installation planning
  • Zero damage to the sensitive valve components throughout all handling and transport phases
  • Perfect timing coordination with painting operations, minimizing project timeline impacts
  • On-time delivery to South Base Peterhead, aligning precisely with the shipping schedule
  • Complete documentation package provided to Dales Engineering for their client deliverables
  • Full regulatory compliance throughout all transport operations

Client Testimonial

"IDI Services demonstrated exceptional technical capability throughout this project, from the initial jacking and weighing operations through to final delivery using their SPMT system. Their precise center of gravity calculations were invaluable for our installation planning, and their ability to seamlessly coordinate multiple transport phases kept our project on schedule. We particularly valued their meticulous approach to handling our specialized equipment – exactly what's needed when moving high-value subsea assets."

  • Operations Director, Dales Engineering

The IDI Advantage

This project exemplifies IDI Services' specialized capabilities in handling complex, high-value energy sector equipment through multiple project phases. By combining technical lifting expertise with advanced transport solutions, we provided Dales Engineering with a comprehensive service that maintained the integrity of their product while meeting all project milestones.

Our ability to deliver precise weighing and center of gravity calculations, coupled with our specialized transport capabilities including SPMT systems, demonstrates why industry leaders like Dales Engineering trust IDI Services with their most valuable assets.

For precision handling and transport solutions that protect your investment while maintaining project schedules, contact IDI Services today.