Ship transfer systems STS

PSI Hydraulic manufactures Ship Transfer Systems (STS) for shipyards and dry docks, designed to move ship hull sections with a total system capacity of up to 40000 tons. The system is based on 4–120 self-propelled marine trolleys, each rated for up to 320 tons, allowing flexible configuration for shipyard heavy transport and modular block movement.

A centralized hydraulic power unit (HPU) with diesel generator supplies synchronized power to all lifting cylinders and drive motors. Load-sensing control enables precise regulation of speed and force, with controlled movement from 0.01 to 2.0 m/min. PSI STS platforms support hydraulic self-powered transfer systems and electro-mechanical transfer system elements for reliable operation in saltwater-exposed and low-temperature dockyard environments.

Explore our Ship transfer systems STS Models

The STS 80 ship transfer system is a compact, high-precision platform engineered to transport small to medium ships, modular blocks, and heavy components during shipbuilding, dockyard maintenance, or industrial assembly processes. It is also deployed in mechanical engineering plants for transporting heavy equipment across shop floors.
The STS 125 ship transfer system is an industrial-grade transport platform designed for relocating vessels, modular ship sections, and oversized components during shipbuilding, maintenance, or production processes. It is also widely applied at machine-building facilities for the controlled movement of heavy equipment.
The STS 200 ship transfer system is a robust and modular transport solution engineered for relocating vessels and large prefabricated blocks during shipbuilding, maintenance, and dry-docking procedures. It is also utilized in heavy industry for transporting oversized equipment and components with maximum stability and control.
TheShip Transfer System STS 250 is a robust heavy-duty transport platform developed for precise handling of vessels, block sections, and industrial-scale components during shipbuilding, shipyard modernization, and large-scale infrastructure projects. It is also applicable for relocation of heavy process equipment in machine-building plants.
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Manufacturing Process of Ship Transfer Systems

PSI ship transfer systems are developed as fully synchronized hydraulic transport platforms, capable of moving extremely heavy structures with millimeter-level control. A typical STS configuration consists of 4 to 24 self-propelled marine trolleys, with the option to connect additional units depending on operational requirements.

At the core of the system is a centralized hydraulic power unit (HPU), supplying energy and control to all transport modules in real time.

Key System Specifications

  • Maximum system payload (24 trolleys): 3000 tons
  • Maximum payload per trolley: up to 320 tons
  • Weight of one trolley: 5.5 tons
  • HPU weight: 9.5 tons
  • Operating pressure: up to 350 bar
  • Hydraulic fluid: HVLP-32 oil

Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) Manufacturing

The hydraulic power unit is built on a reinforced steel frame housing:

  • Diesel generator set
  • Hydraulic oil reservoir
  • Pumping modules
  • Control cabin with operator console
  • Integrated wheelsets

The HPU is engineered for dockyard and dry dock operations, operating reliably under saltwater exposure, rain, and low ambient temperatures. All structural elements are protected with marine-grade coatings, while critical components are enclosed within sealed panels.

Load-Sensing hydraulic technology allows power consumption to vary from 5% to 100%, enabling the operator to precisely control:

  • Travel speed (from 0.01 m/min up to 2.0 m/min)
  • Lifting force of hydraulic cylinders
  • Torque applied to trolley drive motors

This ensures energy efficiency and smooth operation even during complex modular block transport.

Submersible Hydraulic Cylinders & Lifting Systems

Each trolley is equipped with a heavy-duty hydraulic lifting jack, designed for high-pressure operation up to 350 bar. These cylinders are manufactured using corrosion-resistant materials and advanced sealing systems suitable for:

  • High humidity environments
  • Saltwater splash zones
  • Continuous 24/7 duty cycles

Integrated linear displacement sensors provide real-time feedback, enabling synchronized hydraulic system operation across up to 100 lifting points. The system continuously monitors load distribution and stroke position, ensuring safe and uniform lifting of large hull structures.

Drive Systems & Mobility

Each self-propelled trolley is powered by a radial-piston hydraulic motor, offering high torque at low speeds. This configuration allows:

  • Precision movement systems for shipyards
  • Controlled turning by lifting and rotating wheelsets up to 90°
  • Seamless movement along longitudinal transfer tracks

The system supports track-based hose carrier solutions, maintaining organized hydraulic and electrical connections during movement.

Intelligent Control & Remote Operation

PSI STS platforms utilize advanced automation and remote control transport systems, allowing operators to manage:

  • Synchronized movement of up to 100 trolleys
  • Real-time pressure distribution analysis
  • Hydraulic centering mechanism operation
  • Direction changes without repositioning the load

The control system can automatically evaluate cargo position by analyzing pressure data across trolley groups, significantly improving safety during shipyard heavy transport operations.

Oil Cleanliness & Environmental Protection

Given the sensitivity of precision hydraulic components, PSI integrates a multi-level oil protection strategy:

  • Water contamination sensors
  • Dedicated oil-water separation circuits
  • Automatic self-cleaning functionality without operator intervention

This ensures long service life and stable performance even in harsh maritime environments.

Structural Integrity & Load Handling

To ensure safe industrial heavy equipment transport, each STS platform incorporates:

  • Reinforced cross-frame connections
  • Load distribution beams
  • Under-keel support beams
  • Modular trolley configurations for uneven load geometry

These features make PSI solutions ideal for heavy machinery movement platforms, large vessel blocks, and complex dockyard logistics.

Contact

Phone: +86 139 6168 9585
Fax:+86 139 6168 9585
info@psi-hydraulic.com

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