Project Overview

As the demand for renewable energy and wind turbines continues to grow globally, the need for efficient wind turbine manufacturing facilities is more important than ever. Gantrex had the opportunity to partner with Amenabar, the main contractor of Haizea Wind, a prominent player in the wind turbine industry, to complete a rail installation project at their tower manufacturing factory. The scope of this project involved installing industrial rail systems that would support the transport and assembly of heavy equipment required for the production of wind turbine towers.

The objective of this project was to install high-quality rail systems that would meet Haizea Wind’s rigorous operational needs. In total, Gantrex installed 1,815 linear meters of rail for overhead cranes and an additional 2,655 meters for heavy machinery movement. The project required precision engineering and robust installation to facilitate efficient handling of turbine tower components throughout the production process.

By adhering to Gantrex’s quality standards and meeting the specific requirements of Haizea Wind, the project aimed to ensure seamless operations in this high-demand manufacturing environment.

Every rail installation project presents unique challenges, and the Haizea Wind project was no exception. Not only was this one of the most ambitious projects for Gantrex Spain, but it also involved navigating difficult site conditions that required adaptability and resourcefulness.

The installation began in coordination with ongoing civil works, meaning structural elements and floor slabs were still under construction. This required the Gantrex team to communicate closely with Amenabar’s construction crew, ensuring that schedules aligned and that critical areas were completed in time for rail installation. Additionally, building cladding and weatherproofing had not yet been finalized, exposing the site to harsh winter conditions including rain, storms, and high winds.

Winter weather in the region proved challenging, with high winds and frequent rainfall impacting the team’s ability to maintain a consistent installation schedule. Despite these obstacles, Gantrex employed weather-resistant materials and developed strategies to minimize downtime, ensuring the rails were installed to specification and on schedule.

One key factor in overcoming these challenges was the expertise of the Gantrex Spain team. This was the largest project of its kind for the team, and they demonstrated resilience and adaptability in working with the client. Gantrex and the main contractor collaborated closely to mitigate delays and address logistical hurdles, ultimately delivering a rail installation that met all technical requirements despite challenging conditions.

The successful completion of this project highlights Gantrex’s capability to deliver high-quality rail systems for the wind turbine manufacturing industry. The industrial rail systems installed by Gantrex enabled Haizea Wind to:

• Optimize their use of overhead cranes, enhancing the facility’s productivity.
• Improve the transport and handling of turbine tower sections and heavy machinery.

All rails were installed according to Haizea Wind’s precise specifications. By meeting stringent safety and operational standards, Gantrex provided a rail system that supported Haizea Wind’s needs for efficient and reliable equipment movement.

One significant takeaway from this project was the importance of beginning rail installation only when civil works are fully completed. Early commencement led to occasional conflicts with ongoing construction, highlighting the value of a phased approach. In future projects, Gantrex aims to specify the inclusion of surveying services in their scope to ensure site readiness, streamline installation processes, and minimize potential delays.

The project has set a high standard for future collaboration and has enhanced Gantrex’s reputation within the wind turbine manufacturing sector. Gantrex demonstrated its ability to handle complex and large-scale rail installations in demanding conditions, establishing a successful foundation for potential future projects with Haizea Wind and similar clients.