Royal IHC hits first milestones for Subsea 7 reel lay vessel
KINDERDIJK, The Netherlands -- Royal IHC has successfully passed the first significant milestones in the design and build process of an integrated reel lay vessel for Subsea 7. The technologically advanced ship is intended for the installation of complex rigid flowlines, including pipe-in-pipe and electrical trace heating systems. This cost-effective technology will address the market trends towards longer tie-back developments.
Notable achievements include the early completion of the model testing for resistance and propulsion as well as seakeeping performance validation, both of which were conducted at MARIN to the full satisfaction of the client. In addition, crucial gate reviews have been passed in the engineering process with the interfacing of the reel lay system having been defined and concluded.
Currently, Royal IHC’s team in the UK has reached the stage in which the operational concept design of the reel lay system is being translated into the production phase. This world-leading pipe lay system focuses on crew safety, operational efficiency and flexibility.
As well as creating a number of in-house innovations, IHC has also recently awarded a number of key contracts to suppliers of critical equipment. These will further enable the development of systems that are an integral part of the project.
Croonwolter&dros and Bakker Sliedrecht will deliver and fit the integrated electrical and nautical installation for the vessel. The main diesel-generator sets will be supplied by Hyundai, while the thruster package will be delivered by Wärtsilä. IHC has commissioned Huisman for the manufacture and installation of the 250-tonne main AHC offshore crane.
IHC is on track to meet milestones for this prestigious project which will include the cutting of the first steel plate in March 2018 and the keel laying, which is planned for mid-2018. The delivery of the vessel is scheduled for the first half of 2020.
