Rolls-Royce has signed a contract with the shipyard group Vard for its latest DP3 dynamic positioning system to be installed on two new offshore construction vessels.
Dynamic positioning (DP) control systems allow vessels to be held in exact position, when anchoring is not possible, by using satellite technology to enable automatic control of the vessel’s thrusters.
DP systems with classification 3 are the most advanced defined by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), and this is the first Rolls-Royce contract for DP3. Vessels constructed to DP3 standards are able to operate in very demanding situations where any loss of position has the potential to result in fatal accidents, severe pollution or damage with major economic consequences.
Arnt-Ove Austnes, Rolls-Royce, Sales Manager – Automation and Control, said: “We are very happy that Farstad Shipping is the first owner to select our DP3 system. Farstad is an important partner for Rolls-Royce in the continuous development of automation systems.
“An increasing number of offshore operations are performed with rigs and vessels having to be kept in precise position without using anchoring systems. With an increased focus on risk limitation in the oil and gas sector, we expect a growing demand for DP3 classed vessels.”
The two vessels will be built at VARD Group, Langsten, Norway and delivered during the first half of 2015. Rolls-Royce will also supply engines, thrusters, propulsion systems, steering gears, and rudders. Rolls-Royce has already delivered many DP2 systems to VARD Group, across a range of ship designs.