The world’s largest crane has completed its biggest ever lift at Hinkley Point C power station in Somerset.
The super-crane - dubbed Big Carl - lifted a total weight of 575 tonnes during the four-day operation to install the first of three prefabricated steel rings, which form the reinforced cylinder around the nuclear reactor.
The 17-metre-tall ring, which has a diameter of 47 metres, was lifted out of a bunker where it was constructed in factory conditions, according to EDF Energy. It was then placed on 96 hydraulic jacks which lowered it into its exact position.
EDF said the crane, which reached out 160 metres to put the ring in place, carried out the work during the night to take advantage of lighter winds.
Stuart Crooks, Hinkley Point C managing director, said: “This spectacular lift is a remarkable achievement in a year when everyone has had to make extraordinary efforts to keep the site and community safe from infection. The precision involved is like watch-making on an industrial scale.
“Our ability to maintain progress in such tough circumstances is a testament to the commitment of the workforce and our suppliers across Britain and the world.
"Construction of Hinkley Point C’s two reactors continues to provide evidence that repeating an identical design improves quality and efficiency – something that will bring big benefits to Sizewell C in Suffolk.”
The major operation follows a number of milestones at Hinkley Point C this year, EDF said, including the completion of the first 3.5km cooling water tunnels and the reactor base of unit two.
Facts about Big Carl
- The first steel containment ring weighs 382 tonnes – around the weight of a 747 Jumbo jet - with lifting gear taking the total lift weight to 575 tonnes.
- The liner ring is the second of five pieces that make up the steel containment for each reactor, including the base and the dome.
- Big Carl is 250 metres tall, moves on rail tracks and will eventually lift pieces weighing more than 1,000 tonnes.