Fred. Olsen Windcarrier has two purpose-built WTIUs (wind turbine installation units) under construction scheduled for delivery in 2012. Both are classed by DNV.

According to Tor Erik Andreassen, managing director of Fred Olsen Windcarrier, the WTIUs include a number of innovative features. They are self-propelled, self-elevating vessels that can operate in water depths up to 45 meters. The high performance continuous hydraulic jacking system is designed for frequent and rapid jacking, allowing for faster installation times.

The vessels are equipped with an 800 tonne capacity crane that wraps around the stern port leg, allowing for greater stability and making room for a large, and accessible deck space measuring 3,200 square meters. “A lot of deck space allows us to carry more turbines and pylons, which means fewer trips to shore,” explains Mr Andreassen. “And the high capacity crane allows for greater operational flexibility.”

To class the vessel design, Fred. Olsen Windcarrier worked with DNV, which has emerged as the industry’s leading class society for WTIUs. Henning Carlsen, business development manager in DNV’s Offshore Classification unit says that the segment requires a different approach to safety and technical issues. “When completed, the Windcarrier units will be among the largest purpose-built WTIUs on the market,” he says. “These vessels are equipped with large cranes, which required an analysis of the interaction between the crane and the legs to ensure safe operations. Our job was to verify the safety of these units.”

The Windcarrier newbuilds are classed in accordance with DNV’s new standard for classification of WTIUs. For Fred. Olsen Windcarrier, DNV ‘s expertise in this market segment made them an attractive partner. “Fred. Olsen has a long relationship with DNV, and their reputation and competence in this area made them the logical choice,” says Mr Andreassen.

Date: 2011-03-31