TTS delivers new linkspan systems

Sweden's TTS Port Equipment has a number of ferry linkspan and passenger gangway projects in hand

A new contract from Harwich International Port to deliver an upper deck linkspan has been booked by TTS Port Equipment; the equipment will be used with two large new Stena Line ferries currently under construction in Germany. The linkspan, serving Berth 2 at the UK port, will facilitate double-deck operations at the bow of each vessel.

“The TTS proposal comprises a new structure supported by dolphins, which have been specified to maximise safety and stability, being completely separate from the existing pontoon,” says Håkan Jönsson, vice president for sales at TTS Port Equipment.

The entire ramp will operate as two parts – one adjustable, the other lifting. The adjustable portion will be lifted by hydraulic cylinders built into an arched support structure, while the free-floating lifting ramp will be hinged to the adjustable ramp and will rest on the deck when deployed.

The linkspan project will maximise the efficiency of Stena’s new 240m-long ferries, which are being built at Wadan Yards, significantly reducing loading and unloading times. Work is to be undertaken in Harwich during the first half of this year.

TTS has also secured a conversion order from Stena Line Scandinavia to rebuild the upper deck linkspan and install a new passenger gangway at the ferry terminal in Karlskrona, Sweden. This order is the latest development in a joint project between the two companies, which have been working closely together to optimise traffic flow at the terminal and facilitate cargo handling in time for the arrival of new vessels, which are expected to enter into service on the Karlskrona-Gdynia route next year. PST