MacGregor Systems for New OSVs in Asia and Europe

MacGregor bulk handling systems are to be installed on four offshore support vessels (OSV) of various types under construction in Asia and Europe.

In the last quarter of 2011 Cargotec secured contracts for MacGregor bulk handling systems for installation onboard four offshore support vessels (OSV) newbuildings belonging to two different owners; one in the UAE (two vessels) and the other in Spain (two vessels).

At the end of November, Grandweld Shipyards in the United Arab Emirates ordered MacGregor bulk handling systems for two anchor-handling tug/supply (AHTS) vessels, hull Nos 389 and 390. They will handle cement, barite and bentonite for their owner Halul Offshore Services Company, in Doha, Qatar. Equipment for both vessels is scheduled for delivery at the end of June 2012.

In December Cargotec received an order for MacGregor bulk handling systems to be installed on two PSVs (hull Nos 446 and 447) under construction at Astilleros Balenciaga S.A. in Spain, for North Star Shipping in Scotland, UK. The vessels will operate in the North Sea and will handle cement, barite and bentonite. The equipment is scheduled for delivery in June and November, 2012.

“For the owners, it was important that the vessels were fitted with simple and well proven bulk handling technology, with a solid track record,” says Pankaj Thakker, Cargotec Sales Manager, Marine Selfunloaders. “Each installation will feature dust-free operation and low power consumption, making these some of the most environmentally-friendly systems available today.”

Bulk handling systems are standard equipment for offshore support vessels, enabling them to perform their supply role. The main task of such a system is to receive cargo, store and discharge it. MacGregor can offer operators two main system types: one uses a more conventional method where the storage and discharge of cargo is carried out using pressured tanks; and the other uses the hopper and blow pump concept.

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Offshore Energy Today Staff, January 12, 2012; Image: MacGregor