BMT improves offshore windfarm vessel designs
Drawing showing the new active fender system (AFS) for use on windfarm support vessels being developed by BMT
BMT Nigel Gee, a subsidiary of the BMT Group, has announced a number of innovative technologies to help improve the experience of personnel travelling to and from offshore windfarms.
It is not only the vessel performance that is affected by rough weather since seasickness amongst workers travelling to offshore sites is a very real business consideration for windfarm operators. In order to further improve vessel performance and enhance the levels of comfort for passengers, especially in rough seas, BMT has introduced an active motion damping system to a number of its designs. This is capable of reducing motions by more than 50% compared to a conventional platform.
BMT has also developed a solution to significantly reduce internal ambient noise levels and eliminate structure borne vibration. This is achieved by incorporating an innovative, resiliently mounted superstructure which does not compromise the design or performance of the vessel and is fully isolated from the hull.
Several of these technologies are currently being incorporated into the new 19m vessel under construction for Turbine Transfers, the design of which fully complies with the new DNV Wind Farm Service 1 class notation introduced earlier this year.
Through its partnership with Turbine Transfers, BMT is also developing a new active fender system (AFS) for use on windfarm support vessels. The unique design requires no hydraulics or electrical power and ensures that, in the event of a heavy docking with the turbine foundation, the loads imparted on both the vessel and the turbine structure are minimised. Potential damage to either can have a significant impact on the future operability of the windfarm.
Ed Dudson, technical director at BMT Nigel Gee comments: “Technicians who need to carry out vital maintenance on offshore wind turbines have to contend with extended transit times to and from the shore, therefore high levels of comfort and safety is paramount. Our innovative designs and technologies not only deliver such requirements, but optimise the performance of the vessel in areas such as fuel consumption.”Images for this article - click to enlarge
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