Sleipnir, Heerema Marine Contractor’s semi-submersible crane vessel and the world’s first LNG-powered construction vessel, has completed its sea trials and crane load tests.
During Sleipnir’s sea trials all major systems performed according to specifications or even better, Heerema said on Friday.
Sleipnir’s speed was tested and when fully deploying all eight thrusters, a speed was reached of 12.2 knots, approximately 22.6 km per hour, reducing its transit time to projects around the world.
The vessel’s two 10,000-tonne revolving cranes which can lift loads of up to 20,000 tonnes in tandem, were also put to the test. Heerema said that, being the largest crane vessel in the world, Sleipnir can lift huge loads and the tests showed it can meet the cranes’ specifications.
Operational tests were carried out with loads of 11,000 tonnes per crane (110 percent of its capacity).
The dynamic positioning system was also tested showing it can keep Sleipnir stationary within the footprint of a garden tile of 30 x 30 cm during operational work, Heerema’s statement reads.
Sleipnir will soon commence its maiden voyage to southern Spain where it will be prepared for its first installation project in the Mediterranean.