The European Space Agency (ESA) develops the European Space Programme. 22 member states collaborate on projects that they could not achieve individually. For the assembly of space objects - such as satellites - ESA's European Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk is using some cleanroom lifting solutions of Mennens Cleanroom Cranes (MCC)*.
In short
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ESTEC assembles and tests delicate space equipment in cleanrooms
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MCC improved the cleanliness of two existing overhead cranes
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For a new cleanroom, MCC developed a custom cleanroom crane
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For another location, MCC delivered three overhead cranes and a cleanroom-compatible pillar jib crane
About ESA / ESTEC
The European Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk is ESA's largest site and the technical heart of the space organization. More than two thousand specialists work here on dozens of projects.
Dyneema rope hoist
Previously, ESTEC used two conventional overhead cranes with steel cable hoists to move equipment. ESTEC wanted to improve the cleanliness of their hoisting actions. Jarno Vermunt, Manager Projects at Mennens Cleanroom Cranes, says: "We replaced the steel cable hoist with a Dyneema rope hoist. This rope is made of a very strong fiber and emits practically no particles. The micro-particles that are released are ultra-light and are immediately sucked away through the air handling system in the cleanroom ceiling."
"Dyneema rope is made of a very strong fiber and emits practically no particles."
Jarno Vermunt
Manager Projects
New ISO 5-cleanroom
ESTEC was so satisfied with this 'upgrade' that they once again called in the expertise of Mennens Cleanroom Cranes for the construction of a new ISO 5 cleanroom. Jarno: “ESA came with a list of requirements and specifications. It was crucial that the cleanroom crane could perform within the ISO 5 standard. We discussed each point in detail. Together we came up with a tailor-made lifting solution.”
Tailor-made solution
Mennens Cleanroom Cranes designed a double girder overhead crane with a rope hoist, with a working load of 16 tons. Jarno: "The crane is equipped with a walkway with a fall protection anchor line. We equipped the hoist and crane with a work platform. Through this work platform, employees can safely perform service and inspection work on the drum and connect an emergency provision if necessary. This was a specific request. The crane also has a display showing the load reading and the digital positioning in X-Y directions. With this crane, ESTEC can move objects up to almost 9 meters high. A nice detail: we integrated a dust extraction system and magnets into the crane. This further helps to prevent any conceivable form of contamination."
Factory acceptance test
After the cleanroom crane was fully assembled, Mennens Cleanroom Cranes carried out the factory acceptance test (FAT). This tests the completeness and safety of the crane and all associated equipment. It was then dismantled and transported to Noordwijk, where Mennens Cleanroom Cranes installed, assembled the crane and performed the Site Acceptance Test witnessed by a satisfied customer.
Smooth collaboration
Both ESA and Mennens Cleanroom Cranes reflect positively on the project and the collaboration. Jarno explains: "The project went smoothly and, above all, structured. We worked together well throughout."
The hoist has a work platform to safely inspect the drum.
Close partnership
Jarno concludes: "For a new location where ESTEC will conduct tests in the field of radio frequency waves, we delivered three new overhead cranes. For another room at the same location, we delivered a cleanroom-compatible pillar jib crane. This performs within the ISO 7 class. We are happy with this partnership and look forward to new beautiful projects together."
About ESA
ESA (European Space Agency) was founded in 1975 and coordinates and promotes cooperation between European countries in the field of space research, technology, and applications. With 22 member states and various partners worldwide, ESA plays a crucial role in space missions, scientific research, and Earth observation. Some well-known projects are the Rosetta mission to a comet, the Sentinel satellites for Earth observation, and the collaboration with NASA at the International Space Station (ISS).
More information
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* The contract was carried out under a program of and funded by the European Space Agency
Disclaimer
The view expressed herein can in no way be taken to reflect the official opinion of the European Space Agency.