Sarens Completes Heavy Lifting Campaign at Algeria’s Tinrhert Gas Fields
- Meagan Wood
- Jan 16
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
Sarens has successfully completed a major heavy lifting campaign in Algeria’s remote southeastern desert, supporting the development of the Tinrhert gas fields at Alrar. Awarded by Petrofac on behalf of Sonatrach, the project involved installing critical gas infrastructure components under extreme environmental and logistical conditions, with operations carried out between March and July 2025.
Supporting a Strategically Important Gas Development
Sarens has delivered a complex heavy lifting scope at the Tinrhert gas fields in Alrar, located
in Algeria’s southeastern desert. The contract, awarded by Petrofac on behalf of national energy company Sonatrach, forms part of the EPC2–Lot1 development package and supports a nationally significant gas project.
Operations were executed between March and July 2025 in one of the region’s most remote environments, requiring detailed planning, robust equipment selection, and strict safety controls.
Heavy Lift Scope and Site Challenges
Extreme Conditions in a Remote Desert Location
The project involved the installation of 11 heavy components essential to the site’s gas infrastructure. Work was carried out under challenging conditions, including confined working areas, temperatures exceeding 50°C, frequent sandstorms, and complex logistics linked to the isolated location.
Sarens’ scope required careful coordination to ensure progress despite environmental constraints and limited access to on-site resources.
Crane Configuration and Mobilisation
Long-Distance Transport and On-Site Assembly
Key equipment deployed for the campaign included a 600-tonne CC-2800 crawler crane, configured with a 54-metre main boom, supported by an AC-140 crane.
Both cranes were transported overland from Sarens’ base in Oran, covering approximately 1,600 kilometres in journeys lasting up to 10 days. Once on site, crane assembly required a further 10 days, highlighting the logistical complexity of operating in remote desert conditions.
Critical Lifts and Precision Execution
Fire Water Tank Roof Installation
The main lift of the campaign focused on the installation of the fire water tank roof, an 88.9-tonne structure lifted at a 30.9-metre radius.
Due to limited available space, the CC-2800 was required to perform slewing and crawling movements while carrying the load to achieve precise positioning. This operation was supported by detailed lift planning, real-time coordination, and strict safety procedures to ensure controlled execution.
Health, Safety, and Environmental Controls
Maintaining Safety in Harsh Conditions
Sarens implemented intensive health, safety, and environmental (HSE) measures throughout the project. These included stability planning for sandy ground conditions, dust and heat protection measures, structured hydration protocols for personnel, and continuous mechanical support to ensure uninterrupted operations.
These controls were critical in maintaining safety standards while sustaining productivity in extreme temperatures.
Ongoing Works and Future Lifts
Continued Mobilisation for Upcoming Scope
The Tinrhert gas fields project is ongoing. Sarens has recently mobilised an additional 400-tonne Terex Demag CC2400-1 crawler crane to support upcoming lifts, including the installation of two columns weighing 411 tonnes each.
About Sarens
Sarens is a global leader in heavy lifting, engineered transport, and crane rental services, supporting complex infrastructure, energy, and industrial projects worldwide. Known for operating in some of the world’s most challenging environments, Sarens delivers tailored lifting solutions backed by engineering expertise, advanced equipment, and a strong safety culture.
Website: https://www.sarens.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What project did Sarens support in Algeria?
Sarens supported the development of the Tinrhert gas fields at Alrar by completing a major heavy lifting campaign involving the installation of key gas infrastructure components.
Who awarded the contract for this project?
The contract was awarded by Petrofac on behalf of Algeria’s national energy company, Sonatrach.
What were the main challenges of the project?
Challenges included extreme heat exceeding 50°C, frequent sandstorms, confined work areas, and complex logistics associated with the remote desert location.
Which cranes were used during the campaign?
The primary crane was a 600-tonne CC-2800 crawler crane with a 54-metre main boom, supported by an AC-140 crane. A 400-tonne CC2400-1 crawler crane has since been mobilised for upcoming lifts.
What key lifts were completed?
A major lift included the installation of an 88.9-tonne fire water tank roof at a 30.9-metre radius, requiring precise slewing and crawling movements under load.
