Catastrophic Cargo Crane Slewing Ring Failure

Translations: Chinese   Vietnamese  

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) recently issued a warning to vessel owners following the catastrophic failure of a cargo crane on a four year old bulk carrier. The failure of the crane’s slewing ring led to the crane body collapsing into the cargo hold. The jib fell across the main deck with the jib head resting just above the wharf and the crane cab sustained structural damage. Fortunately no one was injured other than the crane operator who escaped with a broken ankle.

The model SS36T electro-hydraulic jib crane had a Safe Working Load (SWL) of 36 metric tonnes and was constructed by Wuhan Marine Machinery Plant Co Ltd (WMMP), China under license from Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co Ltd (IHI Corporation), Japan. The two row roller slewing ring which failed was fabricated by Dalian Metallurgical Bearing Co Ltd, China.

The vessel was one of 443 “Dolphin 57” type bulk carriers built by a number of Chinese shipyards between 2008 and 2014. Some may have been fitted with similar cranes.

Members operating “Dolphin 57” bulk carriers constructed in China are advised to check whether their vessels are fitted with SS36T cranes and slewing rings, and if so, to take appropriate action including inspection and testing to minimise the risk of similar incidents.

Full details can be found in the TSB news release: Catastrophic failure leads to warning about potential risk with cargo cranes aboard bulk carriers.

Members requiring additional guidance should contact the Loss Prevention department.