Scheldepoort B.V. to Convert M/V Agile Into Pipe Lay Support Vessel (The Netherlands)

Scheldepoort Repair & Conversion Yard in the Netherlands secured a major contract for the conversion of the “M/V Agile” into a high-tech flexible Pipe Lay Support Vessel (PLSV).

The Owner and operator of the vessel McDermott Inc is a well known company in the world-wide offshore industry. The converted Pipe Layer Support Vessel “Agile” shall be commenced by McDermott in a 5 years contract for Petrobras in Brazilian waters laying flexible pipes to a water depth of 2,000 meters.

The “Agile” originally 1977 Russian built ice-classed semi-submersible heavy load carrier was initially used for transportation of submarines.

The modifications, amongst others, include:

-Installation of sponsons to increase stability and deep sea lifts;

-Installation of a 200Mt A-frame for flexible pipe deployment;

-Installation of various new cranes;

-Installation of required Abandon and recovery (A&R) systems;

-Installation of the equipment and systems associated with the “lay operations”;

-Construction of new ROV (Remote Controlled Vehicle) platform including necessary equipment;

-Installation of an additional thruster to improve DP-capabilities;

-Expansion of power generation systems by adding a new generator room with 2 new diesel generator sets;

-Complete renovation of the bridge and accommodations;

-All tanks cleaned, blasted and coated as well as vessels exterior.

Completion of this conversion project is anticipated early this summer after which the vessel will transit to Brazil to commence its contractual obligations.

Scheldepoort, member of the DAMEN Shipyards Group, has substantially expanded her activities in the offshore business in the recent years and established a sound reputation with significant projects for Acergy, Helix Well-Ops and Fugro.

During preceding years already two smaller projects for McDermott where executed which initiated the present good relationship. This significant order emphasized once more the increased activities on Scheldepoort Repair and Conversion Yard. According planning AGILE shall be docked in the state of the art covered dry dock and will be undockcd around June this year.

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Source:Scheldepoort ,March 11, 2011;