HollandMT and FKAB proudly announce their newly developed range of backhoe pontoon dredgers

At Europort 2009, HollandMT and FKAB proudly announce their newly developed range of backhoe pontoon dredgers, named the Dredge-X range. The name has been derived from eXcellent eXcavator dredging.

At Europort 2009, HollandMT and FKAB proudly announce their newly developed range of backhoe pontoon dredgers, named the Dredge-X range. The name has been derived from eXcellent eXcavator dredging.

The new range is setup to provide worldwide dredge and marine contractors with a reliable and tailor made excavator dredging solution. This dredge concept provides the best synergy of superior and proven excavator technology by Liebherr and first class dredge pontoon design by marine engineering specialist FKAB and dredge engineering specialist HollandMT.

The new range of backhoe pontoon dredgers is based on the Liebherr pontoon excavator range P9800, P9500, P9400, P250 & P984. To meet present dredging demands, HollandMT and FKAB have also incorporated the latest line of electric powered Liebherr excavators including the powerful P9800 (800 ton machine). The hydraulic system in the excavator is powered by low maintenance AC-electric motors. Electric power is provided by the power plant which is installed in a dedicated engine-room inside the pontoon. The power plant also provides power to hydraulic power packs for the spud hoisting & mooring system, auxiliary systems and the optional propulsion system.

The pontoon and ship’s systems are designed in such way, allowing any specialized shipyard to easily fabricate, launch, commission and test the pontoon. Only after completion, the excavator will be mounted, electrically connected and prepared for final dredging tests.

Advantages of the Dredge-X are:

• Reliable and proven excavator design & worldwide service

• Electric powered excavator, reducing noise and NOx emissions

• Improved maintenance characteristics and workability

• Improved onboard working and living conditions, due to flexible mounting of the excavator

• Flexible design integrating options like propulsion, heavy fuel system, deckcranes, etc.

Various dredging and marine construction companies have shown great interest in the new concept. With the engineering & project support of HollandMT & FKAB, the backhoe pontoon dredgers can be built by any shipyard in the world that matches the needs and requirements of the contractor. Moreover FKAB/HollandMT can provide and supply the required and matching (split-) barges.