Damen Anchor & Chain Factory (AKF), based at Schiedam in the Netherlands, has completed the refurbishment of 12 giant lifting hooks for Tata Steel in IJmuiden.

AKF refurbishes 12 giant hooks for Tata Steel

Each hook has a lifting capacity of either 225 or 240t and is used to lift the enormous bowls, known as ladles, which carry and pour out molten iron and steel in steel foundries.

To ensure safety and efficiency at steel works, all such lifting hooks undergo regular inspections and repairs. This is determined for each set of hooks based on its operational profile.

Tata Steel transported its hooks to AKF where they were dismantled, inspected and repaired as required. They were then reassembled and realigned, and 42mm rivets used to bind each hook into a single, solid structure.

The final stages of the process then see manganese sleeve bearings pressed into the arms, Hardox plates welded on to the lifting areas and rubbing plates welded onto the lifting hooks to protect them from damage.

The company said its ISO 9001 and ISO 3834 certifications demonstrate that it follows stringent quality management systems and has strict procedures in place for its welders and welding procedures.

General manager Laurens van Gelder said: “Our ability to handle heavy-industry projects such as this demonstrate the capabilities that we have at AKF. We have both the skills and equipment to fabricate and repair very large-scale steel components of all types to the highest tolerances, and welcome enquiries from all sectors.”

AKF refurbishes 12 giant hooks for Tata Steel