The Importance of Dynamic Positioning Systems in Offshore Operations
If the dynamic positioning (DP) system went down on an offshore supply vessel, it could result in a collision. On a dive support vessel, it could result in injury or death for a diver. On a drilling rig, it could result in a blowout with loss of life, pollution, and fire.
When it comes to ensuring the safety and efficiency of offshore operations, built-in redundancy is key to avoiding failures. This is where the design and configuration of thrusters, electrical systems, and engines come into play to enable DP systems.
According to Lauri Tiainen, Director Thrusters and Propulsion Control Systems at Wärtsilä Marine, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for DP systems. Each vessel has unique operational requirements and design considerations. Vessels operating in shallow waters, such as those supporting walk-to-work operations, require different system solutions compared to traditional oil and gas vessels operating in deeper waters.
Wärtsilä’s design philosophy focuses on examining the hydrodynamic and aerodynamic forces acting on a vessel and determining the best ways to counteract these forces with thrusters. This includes optimizing propulsion efficiency by assessing the placement and integration of steerable and tunnel thrusters within the hull. The selection of electrical systems, gensets, and DP control systems is then made to support the required redundancy and performance needs.
Technological Advancements in DP Systems
With the increasing prominence of DP systems in vessels involved in offshore wind projects, Wärtsilä has introduced new technologies to address the evolving needs of the industry. One such innovation is the WST-E thruster family, designed specifically for specialized shallow-water applications. The company has also been a proponent of 8°-tilted thruster designs to improve operational efficiency and accuracy.
Wärtsilä has developed the patent-pending OPTI-DP simulation tool and thruster allocation logic to provide detailed insights into thruster interactions and enhance DP capability calculations. Additionally, ABB Ability Marine Pilot Control uses speed-dependent hydrodynamic models to increase the energy efficiency of DP operations, as explained by Kalevi Tervo, Corporate Executive Engineer and Global Program Manager at ABB Marine & Ports.
Furthermore, Miros has introduced PredictifAI, a wave and vessel motion prediction technology that leverages artificial intelligence to improve the energy efficiency of DP operations. By providing real-time predictions of wave, wind, and current conditions, this technology enhances operational safety and efficiency.
Enhancing DP Operations in Offshore Wind Projects
Kongsberg Maritime has focused on optimizing DP systems for offshore wind operations, enabling vessels to maneuver within wind farms more efficiently. The company’s recent development, Tow Assist, allows unpowered floating structures to become DP-enabled, reducing operational risks and enhancing performance during the installation of giant floating wind turbines.
With the rapid growth of the floating wind industry, the Tow Assist System is set to be commercially available in 2025, offering a solution to the challenges associated with transporting and installing floating wind turbines.
Overall, the advancements in DP systems and technologies are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of offshore operations, particularly in the growing offshore wind sector.