Heavy lift and transportation giant Mammoet has started an investigation into possible intellectual property rights violation by Dutch crane maker Huisman and Danish crane specialist BMS over an order to build and deliver a 3,000mt ringer crane that BMS has placed with Huisman.

According to a statement by Mammoet, the investigation “concerns the recently announced series of land cranes, including a 3000-ton ring crane, by Huisman and BMS”. If any violations are found, Mammoet will “take steps to actively enforce its legal rights in any and all applicable jurisdictions”, it added.

“As the global leader in heavy lifting and transport, Mammoet drives innovation in the industry. This includes major developments such as SPMT trailers, hydraulic skid systems, Mega Jack series and containerised (ring) cranes. This innovation is one of the foundations of Mammoet’s business and therefore any violation of its rights, including its intellectual property, will be pursued via legal enforcement,” said Mammoet.

Mammoet also released photographs that compare its SK350 crane with the artist’s impression images that Huisman recently showed of its planned crane for BMS.

Meanwhile, Huisman said it was “surprised” by Mammoet’s move to investigate its planned new crane. In a statement to the media, the company explained: “We were surprised to read in the media Mammoet’s allegation regarding an alleged breach of intellectual property. We have not received any details of infringement claims.

“Huisman is the inventor of the Modular Ringer Crane. Since the delivery of the first one of its kind 25 years ago we have built up a multi-decade track record of designing and constructing this type of crane. Huisman has very high standards when it comes to intellectual property in the development of our technically advanced products. This is also the case with the design of the 3,000mt Ringer Crane for our client BMS Heavy Cranes, an entrant in the growing heavy lift market.

“As we do with each contract, prior to the signing with BMS Heavy Cranes, we conducted a thorough patent investigation to ensure that there were no infringements. Therefore, we will await the outcome of Mammoet’s investigation with confidence.”