At the OSEA 2024 conference held at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Balltec Engineered Solutions took center stage with a compelling presentation on its groundbreaking offshore lifting technologies. Delivered by Engineering Manager Adam Jackson, the session highlighted how Balltec’s innovations are transforming offshore wind installations and decommissioning operations around the globe.
The presentation was co-hosted in partnership with Alliance Sealand Equipment Solutions, Balltec’s exclusive regional agent in Singapore. Together, the two companies are strengthening their presence in Asia’s offshore energy markets with advanced, safety-driven solutions.
From Oil & Gas to Renewables: A Shift in Strategy
Founded in 2004, UK-based Balltec built its early reputation supplying tooling for oil and gas projects. But in recent years, it has pivoted toward the booming offshore wind and decommissioning sectorsa transition that now accounts for about half its revenue. In 2022, the company was acquired by Ventera Group, whose investment has accelerated Balltec’s growth in the renewables space.
“We’ve completed projects in over 775 locations worldwide,” said Jackson, “and today, we’re leveraging that experience to meet the rising demands of offshore wind and decommissioning operations.”
Game-Changing Technologies: Ball & Taper and Ball & Groove
The core of Balltec’s innovation lies in two proprietary systems: the ball and taper and ball and groove lifting tools. These solutions reduce rigging time dramatically – sometimes from two hours to just minutes – and improve personnel safety by enabling remote operation and quick disconnects without manual intervention.
- Ball & Taper tools grip directly onto bare steel, making them ideal for decommissioning work where structures are decades old and inaccessible.
- Ball & Groove tools feature precision-machined internal grooves, providing a highly repeatable and easy-to-train solution for ongoing wind turbine installation projects.
“These tools reduce working-at-height risks and eliminate the need for subsea welding,” Jackson noted. “That’s a game-changer in both safety and cost.”
Real-World Impact: Vineyard Wind and Chevron Decommissioning
Two major case studies showcased the effectiveness of Balltec’s tools:
- Vineyard Wind Project (Massachusetts, USA):
Using a specially designed 2000-tonne lifting tool with a fully remote operating system, Balltec has already performed over 330 lifts on the 64-turbine field. The system works in tandem with a feeder barge system to comply with U.S. Jones Act restrictions, enabling European vessels to handle installations without violating maritime laws. - Chevron Decommissioning (Gulf of Thailand):
In Southeast Asia’s first large-scale decommissioning campaign, Balltec’s modular tools helped decommission 35 assets in just 11 months. The tools’ adjustable diameters allowed them to adapt on the fly – saving time, cutting costs, and reducing risk by keeping all personnel on the vessel.
“We’re talking about going from 5-tonne shackles and hours of setup to safe, precise connections in seconds,” said one project manager. “That’s the level of innovation Balltec brings.”
What Clients Are Saying
While safety remains a key driver before a project, efficiency is the lasting impression, according to Jackson.
“At the end of the day, what sticks with clients like Chevron is how much time – and therefore money – we save them.”
Alliance Sealand’s on-ground support in Singapore was also instrumental in delivering these capabilities to local operators. The collaboration continues to open new doors in Asia’s offshore markets.
