Saipem’s Castorone Pipelay Vessel: Making Waves in Türkiye
Saipem’s Castorone pipelay vessel is on a mission in Türkiye, specifically in the Black Sea, as part of the second phase of the Sakarya project for Turkish Petroleum – Offshore Technology Center (TP – OTC).
On December 26, the vessel made significant strides by crossing the Dardanelles and Bosphorus Straits in Türkiye. Covering a total distance of 54 nautical miles in just under nine hours, Castorone showcased its capabilities and efficiency.
Project Scope and Achievements
As part of a consortium, Saipem has been entrusted with the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of a 16-inch pipeline stretching approximately 158 kilometers in the Black Sea. Additionally, an intrafield pipeline of 21 km at a depth of 2,200 meters is also in the works.
The successful completion of the first phase of the Sakarya project in 2022, involving the laying of a deepwater pipeline, paved the way for Castorone’s continued involvement in this groundbreaking endeavor.
Technological Marvel: Castorone
Castorone, built in 2012, stands as one of the largest and most advanced pipelay vessels globally. With a length of 330 meters and width of 40 meters, it accommodates over 700 personnel and boasts a wide array of cutting-edge technologies.
Equipped to operate in various scenarios, Castorone can handle pipelines in S-lay configuration in shallow and deep waters, up to 3,000 meters. Its Class 3 dynamic positioning system, eight thrusters, 120-meter stinger, and 1,200-ton tensioning capacity make it a versatile asset for large-scale projects.
The vessel’s technological systems include advanced welding equipment and two remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) developed by Sonsub, Saipem’s center of excellence for robotics and subsea services.
Future Prospects
With a track record of installing over 3,500 kilometers of pipelines, including a record-breaking depth of 2,200 meters during the Sakarya project’s first phase, Castorone remains at the forefront of pipeline installation operations.
As it embarks on the next phase of the Sakarya project, Castorone continues to exemplify Saipem’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and excellence in the offshore energy sector.