DROMEC supports Jan De Nul for complex offshore positioning
Branche: Offshore, Renewable, Specials, Spooling systems
At DROMEC, we develop winch systems that make complex offshore operations manageable, safe, and precise. This exact combination comes together in our contribution to TenneT’s BalWin4 grid connection system.
One of the biggest challenges in this project is to have the platform follow a predefined route as accurately as possible using mooring winches.
22 advanced winch systems
For this project, DROMEC supplied a total of 22 advanced winch systems:
- 7 electric positioning winches;
- 12 electric coupling winches for connecting three separate barges into one compact cable-laying pontoon;
- 2 spud pole winches for safe positioning in critical situations;
- A spooling machine for laying the fiber optic cable.
The strength of this delivery lies not in the number of systems, but in the intelligent integration with which they operate.
Central control system
DROMEC integrated all functions into a single central control system. This allows an operator not only to control each winch individually, but also to operate the entire system as one unified whole. And that is exactly what makes the difference. Where normally multiple functions and movements must be coordinated separately, DROMEC has succeeded in enabling a complete barge in a 7-point mooring configuration to be controlled with a single joystick, maintaining its position with centimeter-level accuracy.
“Technically, this is a unique challenge. Essentially, a system must be developed in which seven winches operate as one unit, while the forces acting on the winches can vary significantly,” says Sander de Vree, Mechanical Engineer at DROMEC.
Electric
The coupling winches and spud pole winches are also fully electric. This not only ensures a high level of reliability but also enables a safer way of working. The systems can be operated remotely, giving operators greater control while minimizing manual operations on deck. In a project environment where safety, timing, and precision come together, this is of great value.
Innovative collaboration
What makes this project even more special is how well it aligns with the innovative direction Jan De Nul is demonstrating in the market. Project BalWin4 is positioned as a sector first, where three power cables and one fiber optic cable are installed simultaneously using specially developed equipment suited for the sensitive and shallow Wadden Sea. Within this broader context, DROMEC provides an essential contribution: we ensure that positioning, coupling, drive systems, and control are integrated into one manageable system.
We are proud of that!
Not only because the project was successfully delivered on time and within budget, but especially because it demonstrates what DROMEC excels at: turning complex technology into a system that works, remains controllable, and inspires confidence in practice. We don’t simply build winches and control systems – we develop an integrated solution that enables complete offshore operations to be carried out more safely, intelligently, and precisely.
