Rolls-Royce unveils next-generation OSV

News - March 18, 2005

A new generation of platform supply vessel (PSV) designs is being introduced by Rolls-Royce. The company says it embodies "30 years of experience in offshore vessel design and the knowledge acquired from designing and equipping more than 480 offshore support vessels."

The UT 770-series is designed to provide owners and charterers with safe, effective and economical vessels. All normal supply cargoes can be carried. Liquids are transported in segregated and easily cleaned tanks, cement and other powders in a Rolls-Royce bulk tank system, and a special handling system has been devised for deck cargo.

Low resistance hullforms and efficient propulsion systems reduce fuel consumption and thus CO2 emissions.

"A clear requirement has been to make working and living conditions on board as safe and comfortable as possible," said the chief designer at Rolls-Royce UT-Design, Sigmund Borgundvaag.

"Measures include reducing ship motions in a seaway to a minimum through a combination of hull shape and a passive roll-reduction tank system. Automated hose handling and a newly developed Rolls-Royce system for shifting and securing deck cargo reduce the amount of potentially hazardous manual deck work. The design specification calls for accommodation to cruise ship standards in a low motion environment with minimal noise and vibration, and the latest thinking in bridge layout helps to reduce operatorfatigue."

Ulstein Aquamaster Azipull thrusters with pulling propellers in a medium speed diesel electric system would be the first choice in propulsion. Considerable experience has been built up since the first UT-series vessel equipped with diesel electric propulsion was delivered in 1979. Other propulsion systems may also be selected to suit specific requirements.

A good example of the next generation vessels is the UT 776E. This is a 93m long PSV with a deadweight of about 5,000 tonnes. Over 3,000 tonnes of cargo can be carried on the 1,040m² deck. It can transport pipes, liquid cargoes and cement/barite, and itis designed for safety standby and oil recovery. Options include firefighting, helicopter landing, a 150 tonne offshore crane, a 300 tonne A-frame, extra accommodation and ROV operation.

Four generator sets deliver electric power as required to the main thrusters, the two tunnel thrusters and swing-up azimuth thruster at the bow, to give dynamic positioning to DNV AUTR standard and maximum speed of about 17 knots. The economical cruising speed is in the 12 to 16 knot region.