Fugro awards contract to Bosch Rexroth to fully maintain and further improve Fugro Synergyâ€™s hydraulic equipment

Thursday, 14th November 2019

Extensive maintenance work onboard geotechnical drilling vessel.

Fugro, the world’s leading geo-data specialist, has worked with Bosch Rexroth for over a decade to ensure it has the best hydraulic systems and software solutions on board its geotechnical drilling vessel, the Fugro Synergy. Now, they are working together again in order to better prepare for the future.

The Fugro Synergy vessel has been in operation since 2009, and is primarily used to drill into the seabed in order to analyse whether it can be safely used as a foundation for structures like wind farms or oil rigs. This ship was built to be effective in the harshest conditions, and Bosch Rexroth provides the drives and controls for operating under these circumstances. During the operation, motion compensation of the vessel at sea is one of the drive and control challenges we faced. Two long stroke Heave Motion Compensator cylinders in combination with a compensating accumulator and intelligent software ensures that the drilling operation remains steady and accurate even when waves increase in size.

As the ship has been operational for ten years, a full service of the hydraulics systems and associated software is required. It has been performing reliably for the entire time, so the main focus of the service and maintenance is to ensure another decade of smooth operation. However, as the vessel is in dry-dock, this presents a great opportunity to look at ways to improve the system even further.

“A full recertification process is necessary every ten years, and this is to ensure that the vessel continues to comply with the DNV GL standards,” says Mark Timmermans, Account Manager at Bosch Rexroth. “Fugro then asked us what we would recommend for the hydraulics system going into the future. Generally speaking, they want another ten years of smooth operation, improve up-time, and more specifically asked for some alterations to improve the existing setup.”

An overhaul and exchange program for the main hydraulic pumps is in place as part of planned maintenance, and all these activities require good cooperation of the Boxtel service shop and service technicians on board. Fugro also requested that Bosch Rexroth look into a way to fix the level of noise coming from some parts of the ship, along the main hydraulic pressure lines. So, as part of the overall maintenance, Bosch Rexroth are implementing a solution.

“As part of the 10-year survey, we’re replacing all seals, bearings and wear parts of the hydraulic components” adds Mark. “We are ensuring that everything is operating as it was when it was new, but now with the benefits of all the software updates we’ve implemented over the years. The hydraulics system was still in very good shape thanks to the competence and care of the crew on board the Fugro Synergy, but this was the right time to replace these parts. It’s a more complex task to reduce the noise level, but we are solving it together with Fugro by changing the entire layout of the pressure lines, and installing noise dampeners.”

Although the system was still performing according to expectations, the replacements are necessary in order to extend lifetime under the harsh offshore conditions. This process ensures that there will be no surprises or problems in the years to come. However, as the vessel was in dry dock for a number of weeks, it was the perfect opportunity to modernize further and introduce “smart maintenance” solutions.

“Previously, if there were software issues, we would have to send out a Bosch Rexroth engineer,” explains Mark. “So jointly, we decided to install additional software making remote access of the control system possible. This means if there’s an issue we can analyse it much quicker, without the need to travel wherever the ship may be. In addition to this, we are implementing a data logger to monitor and analyse the system over longer periods as a basis for predictive maintenance in the future. These additions can help to optimize the operational efficiency for longer periods, and we’re happy to be able to innovate alongside a partner like Fugro.”

Kloeckner Introduces NobelCladâ€™s Bi-metallic Plates

Wednesday, 13th November 2019

Kloeckner Metals UK have recently formed an exciting new partnership with NobelClad, the world leader in dissimilar metal bonding. It’s through these kinds of partnerships that Kloeckner has become one of the largest independent distributors of steel and metal products in the world.

Bi-Metallic Plates

Composed of two dissimilar metals, bi-metallic plates are bonded by explosion welding, a cold precision explosion that retains the best properties of both metals. NobelClad has pioneered the use of explosion welding in dissimilar metal bonding. This innovative technique enables bonding in milliseconds, reducing the amount of heat required and therefore preventing any damage that can occur to the metals during the cladding process.

NobelClad bi-metallic plates are renowned for the reliability and strength and are available in over 260 metal combinations.

Using NobelClad’s expertise, Kloeckner can advise the best welding solution and the combination of metals. This will ensure high mechanical strength, thermal and electrical conductivity, metallurgical bond, prevention of galvanic corrosion and reduces the weight of the product.

Bi-metallic plates are used in a wide range of industries as they maintain their mechanical properties regardless of the structure and geometry. Some typical applications include ship building components, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, nuclear components, crystallisers and autoclaves.

Explosion Welding

Barrie Salter, Business Development Director at Kloeckner Metals UK: “At Kloeckner we are continuously on a look out for unique products and services that would benefit our customers. The ability to source unique, hybrid materials that meet extraordinary demands further supports our vision of establishing Kloeckner as a supply chain partner for the marine industry such as oil and gas, power generation, transportation, marine and defence.

Diverse Marine certified for ISO 9001

Monday, 11th November 2019

Diverse Marine is pleased to announce that it has been assessed and certified as meeting the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 with the British Assessment Bureau.

Demonstrating Diverse Marine’s commitment to being at the forefront of developments in the workboat industry, the management system covers the provision of boat design, construction, engineering, outfit and refit, including consultancy services for workboats, defence and leisure craft for the UK and global market.

Diverse Marine will continue to ensure processes and systems are adapted and improved to meet the highest quality system standards, improving not only the management of internal processes, but also ensuring customer focus and delivery of customer excellence.

Commenting on the company’s achievement, Matt Chessell, Director: “The Company’s achievement provides a number of key benefits for customers. Certification to ISO 9001:2015 provides assurance that Diverse Marine has developed its management system to meet the growing needs of customers and other key stakeholders, identifying future customer needs, improving customer retention through better customer service and improving supply chain management.

Diverse Marine has worked extremely hard to ensure our systems and processes are in place and everyone is fully trained. Customer satisfaction remains our key objective.”

In addition to this certification, Diverse Marine will be undertaking Stage 2 audits for ISO 14001 Environmental Management and ISO 45001 Occupational Health & Safety early in 2020.

Reaching out on Exmouth Tidal Defence Scheme

Monday, 11th November 2019

WM Plant Hire have been working with one of their larger 100 tonne long reach machines on the important £12 million flood defence scheme to protect 1800 properties in Exmouth. The scheme has been developed by the Environment Agency working in partnership with East Devon District Council employing civil engineering framework Contractor Team Van Oord to complete the works.

Working with marine contractors Teignmouth Maritime Services (TMS), the CAT 385 long reach excavator with 26m outreach was used on the Esplanade seafront to successfully protect Smeaton’s historic sea wall. Over 2200 tonnes of rock armour with rocks up to 5 tonnes in weight were placed using a specialist hydraulic rock grab and with a camera mounted on the dipper to ensure the accurate placement of the rocks.

South Coast firm secures order for four Patrol boats

Thursday, 7th November 2019

PDL Marine based at Trafalgar wharf in Portchester has been awarded the multiple build contract for four patrol boats for Nigeria. The contract to supply the patrol vessels was signed off yesterday by the client.

The 10.5m vessels are to be built in Aluminium and fitted with Volvo inboard engines, capable of speeds of up to 30 Knots and will be used to patrol ports and harbours.

Capable of operating with a crew up to four, the vessel is built with crew comfort in mind with shock mitigation seats, accommodation and galley.

The vessels are designed by Bruce Roberts Europe BV, based in the Netherlands who have been working closely with PDL Marine on a variety of projects. Edgar Van Smaalen of the design team said “it is great news for the project to have been awarded to PDL and we look forward to continue working closely with the team and ensure another great project is delivered to the client"

Managing director, Phillip Lovegrove said “it is with great pleasure that we have been awarded this significant project and a testament to the team working in the background to ensure the opportunity to bid was successful. We all look forward to getting the builds underway imminently.

It is a busy time for all the team at PDL Marine, with a 15m high speed Aluminium catamaran workboat also underway.
PDL Marine are specialists in Aluminium and steel workboats, pleasure boats and fabrications works.

Sewage and waste water disposal for floating pods â€“ no problem!

Wednesday, 6th November 2019

With the growth of floating holiday and permanent homes, comes the need for effective and reliable Sewage and Waste Water disposal systems. This is certainly the case at Thornham Marina in Emsworth, where two new floating “Armadillo sleeping pods” have recently been located on a Walcon pontoon.

Warwickshire based LeeSan, the recognised specialists in marine and leisure sanitation, were asked to help and were happy to design and install the perfect solution.

The attractive and interestingly designed luxury pods are heated for Winter use and air conditioned for the Summer. They feature a bedroom, kitchen, dining area and bathroom with toilet, shower and washbasin. The waste from the toilet, shower, basin and kitchen sink needed to be disposed of effectively.

However, since the pods are also “motorised”, and therefore moveable, there were a few connection challenges to be coped with.
Luckily, the LeeSan team are well used to handling these types of installations and designed a system which would fit all of the requirements.

A large, bespoke, 900 litre holding tank was installed below the access pontoon. This gives reasonable “redundancy” in case of problems.
A powerful grinder pump which will handle all of the flow was selected. A safety control panel to monitor the waste was also fitted. This uses a probe system and automatically activates the pump out when appropriate.

The under-pontoon tank currently pumps to a large holding tank sited in the marina, but will eventually pump directly to the main sewer system.

When the pods are required to move, stop valve couplings are easily released, sealing the systems. Once re-moored the couplings can easily be re-connected.

Karl Sutcliffe, Technical Sales Director at LeeSan, comments:

“We are seeing a considerable increase in the demand for this type of equipment. Floating homes are a growing market. Our long history (and therefore considerable experience) in all aspects of this type of equipment and environment means that we find it relatively easy to come up with really effective solutions”.

“Our facility to custom-build systems to fit almost every project means that we are confident in our ability to handle anything that designers ask of us.”

Blackman & White to showcase Orion cutting solution at The METSTRADE Show

Wednesday, 6th November 2019

Blackman & White has announced it will be showcasing its Orion cutting system on stand CMP.41.EL at the upcoming METSTRADE Show. Taking place at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre between 19th and 21st November 2019, the METSTRADE Show is the world's largest trade exhibition of marine equipment, materials and systems.

Blackman & White's Orion flatbed cutting machine is a quick and accurate low ply cutting/plotting system with an unrivalled range of blade and pen tool options in its class. Built for high-volume production, the Orion is designed for companies looking for an easy-to-use, affordable and reliable cutting system. The company will also be demonstrating a full workflow from digitising to nesting and then cutting. The digitising solution enables templates to be photographed and saved digitally which can then be edited before being exported to the nesting software to optimise material usage, before being sent to the machine for fast and accurate marking and cutting.

Renowned for its flatbed laser systems, the company will be happy to discuss its laser cutting systems for parachutes, sails, kites and other leisure industry materials. Blackman & White's unique expertise in marine applications has benefited companies globally – markedly improving their productivity and delivering a fast ROI.

As the UK's only manufacturer of cutting systems – with all machines designed and manufactured from start to finish at the company's factory in Maldon, Essex – Blackman & White has over 50 years' experience and is able to offer complete solutions. Highly regarded for quality and innovation within the boat building, sail making and composite markets to name a few, Blackman & White works continuously to develop cutting solutions for handling even the most difficult to manage materials accurately and efficiently.

Alex White, managing director of Blackman & White, comments: "We are looking forward to meeting visitors to METSTRADE and discussing how we are able to offer the perfect cutting solutions for their businesses' needs."

The METSTRADE Show takes place at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre between 19th and 21st November 2019.

For more information, please visit https://www.metstrade.com/

Blackman & White will be located on stand CMP.41.EL in the construction material pavilion. For more information on Blackman & White, please visit www.blackmanandwhite.com.

Global Renewables Shipbrokers starts strategic partnership with COLI Schiffahrt & Transport GmbH & Co. KG in Japan

Tuesday, 5th November 2019

Globally leading consultancy and specialist shipbroker for the planning and installation of offshore renewable energy projects focuses on growth markets in Asia.

(Hamburg, Nov 2019) Global Renewables Shipbrokers (GRS) from Hamburg is celebrating the start of the strategic partnership with COLI Schiffahrt & Transport GmbH & Co. KG in the offshore renewables market in Japan.

The aim of the cooperation is to provide fast and first-class project development of offshore wind farm projects in Japan. “With COLI a competent and experienced partner in the field of break bulk and project cargo – especially between Europe and Far East – is by our side,” explains Matthias Mroß, GRS Managing Partner. “With CPC Consolidated Pool Carriers (Asia) Co. Ltd. the COLI Group has already been successfully established in Japan since 1997.”

GRS is one of the worldwide leading consultancy and shipbroking businesses in offshore wind, wave and tidal energy. As an independent advisor, GRS supports the negotiation of all contracts across all value creation stages of the entire project development. At the subsequent installation and operation stage, GRS, as an internationally operating and independent specialist shipbroker, takes on the chartering of all vessels and crews required as well as the contracting of all further offshore service providers.

“The market entry to Japan is ideal at this point in time,” says Mroß. “Currently all levers are set in motion to achieve the ambitious plans for the expansion of offshore wind energy in Japan. We have monitored the offshore renewables market in Japan for a long time. Now we take the opportunity to enter this market. Building on our experience and expertise, we can ensure that mistakes will be avoided and expansion targets achieved.”

“We look forward to a successful collaboration with GRS. Together, we are able to guarantee the market a broad service portfolio as well as a reliable and swift implementation. All parties will benefit from the synergies created,” Herbert Lösing, managing director at COLI Schiffahrt & Transport GmbH & Co. KG points out.

The expansion of offshore wind energy in Japan in progressing in a dynamic way. The legislative adaption at the end of 2018 paved the way for all future developments of “far offshore” projects in Japan. After a few offshore wind test projects, the next larger commercial scale projects will be installed within the next two years. This is followed by already successfully tendered windparks with the imminent project contracting. With its long coastline and high wind speeds Japan is in a very good position for establishing offshore wind projects in a large scale.

LEEA Academy receives prestigious recognition

Tuesday, 5th November 2019

LEEA – the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association – received a Bronze Award in the ‘Best Learning and Professional Development’ category at the Association Excellence Awards 2019, which took place recently in London.

The Award recognises the success of the LEEA Academy which was launched in 2016 and offers a range of courses designed to raise standards in the examination and inspection of in-service marine lifting equipment across the world.

Courses are delivered either online, at a member’s premises or at LEEA’s national training school in Huntingdon. In addition, combined training events have been developed to allow members for whom face-to-face learning was previously not an option to access a range of studies.

Since the Academy’s introduction, over 1000 qualifications have been issued to LEEA members worldwide.

The Association Excellence Awards judges were looking for a professional learning and development programme established by a trade association that responds to the needs of its members and/or a wider circulation. Evidence was sought of innovation, expertise and success in all areas including:

–  Strong communication of the programme's USP and benefits to the intended audience;
–  Take-up and enrolment that met or exceeded objectives;
–  Wider benefits to the industry of the programme;
–  High loyalty retention and referral rates;
–  Further advancement of the association’s aims.

In announcing LEEA as the winner of the Bronze Award, the host of the Association Excellence Awards 2019, author and broadcaster Dominic Holland, stated: “The Awards judges were impressed by an excellent and well supported submission from LEEA. The LEEA Academy is a first class example of a development programme with truly international reach and the dedication of the LEEA team that delivers it deserves the highest praise.”

Andrew Wright, LEEA’s Deputy CEO, commented: “We are very proud to have received this award against strong competition and I would like to thank the entire LEEA team who, through their engagement, commitment and support for the LEEA Academy, are helping to raise engineering standards and safety at sites across the world.”

Founded in 2014, the Association Excellence Awards reward the achievements of trade bodies, professional membership organisations and associations.

Customisable Immersion Suit and Robust Lifejacket Introduced for Offshore Training Centres

Tuesday, 5th November 2019

To meet a market demand for lifejackets and immersion suits capable of withstanding the repetitive rigours of offshore training programmes, Survitec will introduce its 1300 Series training suit and Halo training lifejacket with Emergency Breathing System (CA-EBS) at OPITO Global this November.

The 1300 Series training suit is based on the proven Survitec 1000 Series immersion suit range. The Halo training lifejacket with optional EBS, meanwhile, is based on the new helicopter passenger transfer lifejacket introduced earlier this year.

Andy Wilson, Design & Development Manager, Survitec, said: “The 1300 Series immersion suit and Halo training lifejacket provide an authentic reproduction of the operational system in a form more suitable for the training environment.”

Rick Brown, Managing Director, Sequ Offshore Safety, said: “The training versions of Survitec’s operational systems give our students invaluable experience in their correct use. This means that when they are in real time survival situations, wearing and operating the equipment is second nature. For us, as a training provider, frequent use immersion suits and lifejackets that are robust and easy to maintain are a much more cost-effective proposition than investing in the full operational versions of these products, given their usage.”

Based on feedback from leading OPITO-approved training providers, like Sequ Offshore Safety, the training models have been adapted to include a number of practical features tailored to the training environment.

For instance, the 1300 Series training suit can be tailored using PU-Nylon or high end breathable Gore-Tex Pazifik, with either patented hypo-allergenic seals, Seamtite Latex, Neoprene or a Si-Tech modular system with Silflex Silicone. Additionally, training providers can choose between a diagonal waterproof zip manufactured from either YKK Aquaseal plastic or YKK Proseal metal, depending on preference.

“The Si-Tech modular system is a great addition and enables the training provider to easily replace seals onsite when necessary,” said Wilson.

The Halo training lifejacket is a stripped-down version of the more technically advanced Halo unveiled at SPE Offshore Europe in September. The removal of items with an expiry date, such as strobe lights, simplifies the maintenance aspect of this product for the training provider.

With its modular equipment pockets and EBS attachment points, it offers the training provider with a single lifejacket solution replacing the need to hold both Passenger and Pilot options in their fleet – as well as being the ideal upgrade for the Tropical BOSIET MK28 training models.

The cover material has also been changed from Nomex, chosen operationally for its high-quality heat and flame-resistant properties, to a hardwearing and quick dry 300D Polyester. To accommodate the frequent opening and closing of this cover, the zip has been modified to a QBZ YKK variant. This is further protected by a panel secured in place with a popper in addition to Velcro straps for longevity.

“The training version of Halo also incorporates a modified inflation bladder with a 'fake' inflation mechanism,” added Wilson. “This simulates the operation of the actual Halo system but reduces rearming costs and simplifies the repacking process in the training environment.”

Month: November 2019

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