Works include fitting of four new spud cans

Damen Shiprepair Dunkerque (DSDu) has completed an eight-day refurbishment project for the 132-metre DP2, self-propelled, jack-up vessel Sea Installer. Operated by A2SEA, which was purchased in 2017 by DEME’s subsidiary GeoSea, Sea Installer was purpose-built in 2012 for installing the next generation of large wind turbines off the coast of Europe.

The primary task was the fitting of new spud can shoes to the vessel’s four columnar legs. These massive pieces of steelwork, weighing 160 tonnes each, required the deployment of specialist logistics including the use of self-propelled modular transporters to move them into position and a 700-tonne crawler crane.

While Sea Installer was in the drydock at DSDu, the client also took the opportunity to prepare her for the next contract. This required a substantial amount of steel work related to the installation and securing of equipment on deck including stairs, grillages and containers.

Sea Installer also had her thrusters overhauled and her external paintwork was refreshed with the branding changing from the blue and white of A2SEA to the green of DEME.

“With just eight days allotted for the repairs, the yard worked around the clock to ensure that everything was completed on time,” said Fabien Guillemot, commercial manager at Damen Shiprepair Dunkerque. “The logistics for the replacement of the spud cans required external resources, but at DSDu we have excellent access to the relevant specialist suppliers to enable the efficient completion of projects such as this.”

Torben Breyen, Vessel Superintendent at A2SEA, commented, “Prior to the docking we had several planning meetings as, with the installation of the shoes, modification of the jetting system, maintenance of two bow thrusters and painting of the topsides, the entire operation could have ended up a logistical nightmare given the short time available. However due to the good planning all the jobs were executed on time and with a satisfactory result.”

Sea Installer is now employed on the installation of 42 Siemens 7MW wind turbines at the Rentel offshore wind farm off the coast of Ostend, Belgium.