Kleven to Build ABB’s New Cable Layer

Kleven in Ulsteinvik, Norway has secured a new job to construct a DP3 cable-laying vessel for a Swiss-based cable specialist ABB.

The 140 by 30 meters vessel, based on a design from Salt Ship Design, is scheduled for delivery in 2017.

MAATS Tech is responsible for the integration of the cable lay mission equipment in the design development.

The new SALT 306 Cable Lay Vessel is intended to boost the capacity of ABB’s subsea cable operations.

A number of local suppliers, such as Brunvoll, Hareid Group and ABB Marine in Ulsteinvik will also contribute to the project.

“This next-generation vessel incorporating state-of-the-art ABB technologies will be a key differentiator for our high-voltage cable business, enhancing flexibility and execution ability,” said Claudio Facchin, president of ABB’s Power Systems division. “It will also improve operational efficiency and customer focus, supporting profitable growth in line with our Next Level strategy.”

“This project is a great example of the strength of Norwegian ship design and ship building in tough international competition. Close cooperation between ABB, Salt Ship Design and Kleven has resulted in a vessel that is future-oriented, competitive and highly inovative,” said Ståle Rasmussen, Kleven’s CEO.