China's first self-developed 2,500-kJ hydraulic pile-driver [Photo/ntjoy.com]

China's first self-developed large hydraulic pile-driver has recently been approved by DNV (Det Norske Veritas), an international certification and classification body that specializes in technical assessment, advisory, and risk management.

The machine was produced by China Forging Machinery Co (CFM) and Jiangsu Longyuan Zhenhua Marine Engineering Co. It weighs 355 tons and can hit with a force of up to 2,500 kJ. 

A pile-driver is essential for the installation of offshore wind power plants. Currently, all of the world's large pile drivers are produced by European companies, which to a certain extent has hindered the development of the wind power industry in China.

In response, two Nantong-based companies started working to develop their own equipment in September 2017.

The new self-developed pile-driver was completed in early 2019. It was tested in an array of geological conditions before being evaluated by DNV.

According to experts, the breakthrough will greatly reduce the cost of installing offshore wind power plants in China.