Sarens completes complex transport of filter vessels
Sarens is proud to support Kuehne+Nagel and Aibel in the ongoing upgrade works at Kårstø Gas Plant, contributing our expertise to the safe and efficient transport of two major filter vessels, a blowdown platform, and the associated stair tower structures for the Yggdrasil B scope.
The operation forms a crucial part of the plant’s modernisation, with oversized components arriving by sea and requiring precise handling and transport within a highly controlled industrial environment.
All large components arrived at the construction quay in Kårstø, where Sarens deployed a 2×12 axle K24ST SPMT configuration to receive the cargo directly from the vessel’s onboard cranes. Each filter vessel weighs approx. 357T, with additional units including a 120T blowdown platform and upper/lower stair towers.
The transport plan was executed in phases: Filter Vessel 1: Offloaded and transported to a temporary storage area using pre‑installed load‑spreading systems and engineered support stools; Filter Vessel 2: Delivered directly to the installation area before the SPMTs returned to transport Filter Vessel 1 to its final position; Thailand shipment (Blowdown Platform & Stair Towers): Scheduled for arrival in early October 2025, after which Sarens have again mobilised the SPMTs for direct installation support.
This sequential approach ensured safe routing through the facility while maintaining operational continuity for the client.
Safety remained central throughout the operation. Sarens performed: Safe Job Analyses (SJA); Toolbox Talks with all crew; Continuous weather, wind, and visibility assessments; Strict EX‑rated communication protocols inside the plant.
The SPMT configuration was engineered and verified using detailed stability, load, and lashing calculations demonstrating safe margins for static, dynamic, and slope conditions – fully aligned with DNV and EN standards.
To execute this mission efficiently and safely, Sarens mobilised: SPMT K24ST – 24 axles total; Maxi Powerpacks; 3×HEB500 (8m) heavy transport beams; BS610 support stools; Load spreading materials.
This project showcases Sarens’ expertise in delivering engineered heavy transport solutions in live industrial environments, demonstrating our capability to coordinate complex routing, execute heavy lifts with precision, and ensure continuous safety and quality throughout the operation.
As the Yggdrasil upgrade progresses, Sarens will continue supporting Kuehne+Nagel, Aibel, and Equinor in bringing critical components into position, living up to our mission of making the impossible possible.
