China-built Deepwater Pipelay Vessel Sets Sail for Liwan Gas Field

May 15, 2012

China’s Rongsheng Heavy Industries and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (“CNOOC”) have successfully completed construction of a 3,000-meter deepwater pipe laying crane vessel (“DPV”) “HAI YANG SHI YOU 201.”

The vessel has set sail for the “Liwan 3-1” gas field in the South China Sea today and will prepare for pipe laying works. “HAI YANG SHI YOU 201” marks the first self-design and self-build deepwater offshore engineering vessel project in China, advancing the nation’s deepwater resources exploration strategy.

As the flagship of CNOOC‟s deepwater exploration fleet, the vessel is expected to arrive at the “Liwan 3-1” gas field in June after departing from Qingdao. The vessel is to collaborate with “HAI YANG SHI YOU 981”, the deepwater semi-submersible drilling platform which started production in early May, and will prepare for pipe-laying works. This collaboration marks the beginning of the practical stage of deepwater resources exploration for China.

Mr. Chen Qiang, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of China Rongsheng Heavy Industries, said, „HAI YANG SHI YOU 201‟ advances the technology and construction capabilities of the Chinese offshore engineering industry to a global leading level. After its christening ceremony in May 2011, „HAI YANG SHI YOU 201‟ has been on a one-year trial period and is now ready for production. It is dedicated to ensuring the reliable supply of energy to China, and to promote the strong maritime developing strategy and protect the integrity of sovereignty in China.”

According to Rongsheng, HAI YANG SHI YOU 201 is the world’s first deepwater pipe laying crane vessel featuring 3,000-meter deepwater pipe-laying, 4,000 tonnes of lifting capacity and DP-3 dynamic positioning capability. It is designed to handle deepwater pipe-laying and gearing tasks. The vessel marks the culmination of the first joint offshore engineering project of CNOOC and China Rongsheng Heavy Industries.

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Offshore Energy Today Staff, May 15, 2012