The Netherlands: IHC EB Delivers J-Lay Tower for New Build Vessel Saipem FDS2

IHC Engineering Business (IHC EB), a part of IHC Merwede group, has successfully delivered its largest project to date, a 2,000 tonne capacity J-Lay tower for client Saipem. After intensive design, manufacture and installation, assisted by Saipem teams, the system is en route to West Africa.

The rigid pipe lay system, one of the worlds most versatile, was installed, commissioned, tested and trialled on the new build vessel, Saipem FDS2, in South Korea. The system can handle pipes from 4” to 36” in diameter and with the tower angle adjustable from 45 to 96 degrees can lay in deep and shallow water. An integral bulky item handling system and an adjustable stinger also contribute to the high functionality and versatility of the system.

The key design drivers throughout the development of the system were the efficiency of the pipe handling operations to ensure low cycle time, weight optimisation and safety in all aspects of operation. IHC EB has successfully delivered an industry leading system that meets Saipem’s challenging requirements as well as achieving DNV design approval.

IHC EB Sales and Marketing Director, Toby Bailey commented on the completion of the large-scale project, “The delivery of the Saipem J-Lay tower is another significant step forward for IHC EB as it is our first turnkey deepwater pipe lay system. IHC EB has undergone major development and streamlining to cope with the demands of such a large-scale project, and is now positioned as one of a small number of companies around the world capable of delivering vessel systems of this size and complexity.”

To discuss the innovative J-Lay tower further and any other subsea engineering requirements, visit IHC EB at OTC, Houston 2-5 May on the IHC Merwede stand number 2625 in the Dutch Pavilion.

Company profile IHC Merwede

IHC Merwede is focussed on the continuous development of design and construction activities for the specialist maritime sector. It is the global market leader for efficient dredging and mining vessels and equipment – with vast experience accumulated over decades – and a reliable supplier of custom-built ships and supplies for offshore construction.

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Source: IHCMerwede, April 28, 2011.