Sparrows Group’s cranes to support Qatargas’ North Field expansion

Sparrows Group has secured a contract to manufacture three cranes for Qatargas’ North Field expansion project.

The project, awarded through engineering firm McDermott International, will see the firm deliver two of its EC750 cranes for installation on wellhead platforms, as well as an EC1000 crane for a riser platform.

North Field is the world’s biggest single non-associated natural gas field, located offshore north-east Qatar peninsula. The field has recoverable reserves of more than 900 trillion standard cubic feet, or approximately 10% of the world's known reserves. The expansion project includes the development of four new LNG trains and eight wellhead platforms, where 80 new wells will be drilled.

The cranes, which will be manufactured to API specification 2C 7th edition, are expected to be completed in Q4 of this year. On delivery to Batam, Indonesia, where the platform topsides are currently being constructed, Sparrows will oversee installation and commissioning of the cranes.

Once on location in the North Field, Sparrows’ local team in Qatar will support the continued operation of the cranes. Spare parts will be stored locally, ensuring future maintenance work can be carried out efficiently.

Stewart Mitchell, Sparrows chief executive officer, said: “We have a strong presence in Qatar and our ability to provide ongoing support in-country for safety critical equipment was a key factor in us securing this project. The award is a testament to our experienced local workforce who continue to deliver operational excellence for our customers.

“The North Field expansion is a key project for the Middle East and will see LNG production capacity increase by 43% upon completion. We’re excited to be part of this key development in Qatar and look forward to working closely with Qatargas and McDermott.”

Sparrows currently employs approximately 300 people across the Middle East at its bases in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.