China: COSCO Completes Offshore Installation of Propellers in GM4000

On August 25, after five days of unceasing work, the offshore installation of six propellers in the world’s sixth generation semi-submersible rig GM4000 was successfully completed in COSCO Nantong Shipyard.

The rig has passed a series of tests and is ready for sea trial. Fully satisfied with the installation of propellers and the inspection works, the owner’s representative gave the on-spot constructors the thumbs up, saying that it was the best team that he had worked with in China.

The installation of the six propellers began at 15:10, August 20, when GM4000 arrived in COSCO Nantong Shipyard after being on tow for 50 hours. To make sure that the installation goes smoothly, COSCO Nantong Shipyard started planning before the rig launched out, carrying out several on-the-spot investigations and technological demonstrations, taking into consideration the impacts of the tides and the approaching typhoon. Under the guidance of Guo Xiaodong and Qiu Ming, Assistant General Managers of COSCO Shipyard Group, utilizing advanced hydraulic lifting technology, the project team set the new record of completing the installation and commissioning of six propellers within five days.

The successful installation of propellers in GM4000 gave a firm base for the sea trial and delivery of the rig and provided valuable experience for the offshore installation of propellers for other offshore products.

[mappress]

Source: COSCO, August 27, 2012; Image: COSCO