Get ready—the world’s largest semi-submersible crane vessel (SSCV) is about to hit the high seas.
Sleipnir, which is named after the Norse god Odin’s eight-legged stallion, is ready for sea trials, and will enter into service for Heerema Marine Contractors soon afterward. The SSCV, which was recently completed at Sembcorp Marine’s Tuas Boulevard Yard in Singapore, has a 722-foot by 394-foot reinforced deck area, which makes it the largest crane vessel ever built.
Sleipnir also has two 10,000-ton revolving cranes, which are able to lift up to 20,000 tons in tandem. On board, the SSCV can fit 400 people.
After its sea trials, the vessel will be used around the world to install and remove jackets, deep-water foundations, topsides, moorings and various other offshore structures. It is already in contract for use on projects in the Mediterranean, the Danish Sea and the North Sea.
Sleipnir is expected to have a significant impact on the oil and gas industry. It features the world’s strongest pair of revolving cranes, and its single-lift capacity caters to larger integrated structures than previously possible. Moreover, its workability in harsh conditions is enhanced due to its unique column design. Industry experts expect that it will reduce the need for offshore assembly work and raise operational efficiency industry-wide.
The vessel is also likely to affect the renewable energy sector, as wind turbines and foundations are expected to keep getting bigger. Sleipnir is well-designed to accommodate this trend.
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