Zoomlion cranes help out in Antarctica

Construction of China's fifth exploration base in Antarctica with the help of Zoomlion telescopic boom crawler cranes. Photo: Zoomlion

Manufacturer Zoomlion has supplied telescopic boom crawler cranes for the construction of China’s fifth Antarctic research station.

It is being built over a 5,244 square metre area on the rocky and inhospitable Inexpressible Island in the Ross Sea. As many as 80 researchers will be accommodated for multi-disciplinary research into the marine environment, the atmosphere and ecology.

Construction time would be just 60 days, Zoomlion said. To help achieve that short construction time and minimise work on site, the new station comprises 84 modules, assembled on a steel floor.

Cold performance

Tasks for the 60 tonne capacity ZCT600V5 telescopic boom crawler cranes from the Chinese manufacturer include unloading materials and assembly of steel frames and other structures. Harsh conditions of severe cold, ice, strong wind and more have to be endured.

The ZCT600V5 has a 46 metre, five section boom and reach can be increased with an 8 metre jib. Specially designed track shoes are to help cope with the ice and snow. It can assemble its own 20 tonnes of counterweight and is designed for easy transport.