Kongsberg Maritime Revolutionizes Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Installation
Kongsberg Maritime has introduced a range of innovative methods aimed at revolutionizing the transportation and installation (T&I) of floating offshore wind turbines. These groundbreaking solutions have been developed to streamline the entire process, from anchor and mooring installation to electrical cable pull-in, ensuring efficient connection to energy grids. This comprehensive approach signifies a significant advancement in the floating offshore wind market.
As part of a strategic effort to contribute to the emerging floating offshore wind market, Kongsberg Maritime is continuously working on more initiatives. Four key elements of this new approach include new vessel designs and methodology for anchor and mooring installation, a novel approach for towing turbines to site, an integrated tensioning concept for mooring lines, and an innovative cable pull-in system.
“We aim to provide a complete package of equipment and technology for the entire process of floating turbine installation, from assembly site to grid connection,” said Gunnar Thorsen, Senior Vice President of Business Concepts at Kongsberg Maritime.
New Vessel Designs for Anchor and Mooring Installation
Two cutting-edge vessel concepts have been introduced to facilitate large-scale mooring and installation operations. The Floating Wind Installation Vessels (FWIVs) are specifically designed to address the challenges of transporting and installing floating wind turbines and other offshore structures.
The anchor handling version (UT 7900 FWIV AH) features a triple cross-tensioning winch system capable of handling up to three mooring lines simultaneously, significantly reducing bollard pull requirements. On the other hand, the subsea construction vessel design concept (UT 7600 FWIV Subsea) is equipped with advanced systems for handling mooring elements, making it ideal for high-volume floating wind installations.
Tow Assist System for Enhanced Towing Operations
Kongsberg Maritime has developed Tow Assist to address the challenges of transporting giant turbines to offshore fields. This innovative approach combines Dynamic Positioning (DP) technology with operational analysis to improve situational awareness, safety, and efficiency during towing operations.
Tow Assist, based on the K-Pos DP system, enables unpowered floating structures to become DP-enabled during towing operations, enhancing precision and efficiency in positioning offshore structures.
Integrated Tensioning for Simpler Hook-Up Operations
The Integrated Tensioning Concept enhances the efficiency and safety of mooring line hook-up operations by compensating for relative movements between the floater and the vessel. Utilizing advanced Permanent Magnet (PM) winches, this system ensures precise and efficient tensioning of mooring lines under challenging offshore conditions.
Innovative Cable Pull-In for Year-Round Operations
A new method for cable pull-in operations has been introduced to simplify the installation process, reduce complexity, and enhance safety. By placing all necessary equipment on the vessel, this patented method minimizes risks associated with the operation, reduces the number of personnel onboard the floater, and allows operations to continue in harsh weather conditions, ensuring year-round productivity.