Design and Construction of a Large Shiplift Facility in India

Abstract

Abstract: To meet the growing shipbuilding needs in Indian subcontinent, L&T Shipbuilding has set-up a modern shipyard facility at Kattupalli near Chennai, India. As part of shipyard infrastructure, a state-of the art Shiplift and Transfer System has been implemented. With facility to handle ships of beam up to 43m and lifting capacity of 21000 MT (expandable to 26000 MT), this is one of the largest shiplifts in the world. To optimize the project cost and develop technology capability, entire planning, design, development and construction of Shiplift system including equipment and control system were handled indigenously. This along with stringent time schedule posed numerous challenges to the project team. Innovative solutions were adopted to overcome challenges and to maintain the project cost within budget. This paper covers the design and construction aspects of Shiplift system with focus on civil works. Challenges faced and solutions adopted are provided. The conclusion of the paper is that world class solutions can be developed and implemented successfully by pooling the available expertise and integrating it with specialist support.