Damen wins drilling rig contract

The DP3 semi-submersible rig, due to arrive at DVR in October for the three-month refit, will have its mooring system upgraded and its hull strengthened to comply with new regulations regarding the mitigation of wave impact forces.
Preparations are already being made for the new eight-point mooring system which will enable the rig to operate over a wider range of water depths and stay on station for longer in spells of adverse weather. It will also raise fuel efficiency by reducing reliance on the rig’s dynamic positioning system. Components of the mooring system currently being manufactured and procured include anchor chain blisters and sponsons, being built at Damen Shipyard Mangalia, eight ultra-high-holding power anchors being supplied by the Damen Anchor and Chain Factory, anchor winches and fairleads, and winch control cabins which are being supplied by Rolls-Royce AS.
Commenting on the project, Damen Shiprepair & Conversion Commercial Director, Bas Loohuis, noted that the contract will draw on expertise from several parts of the Damen Group. “Not only is it a fantastic project to have at our yard, but it also indicates that the oil and gas market is reviving,” he said. “The North Sea seems to be one of the first areas that is showing light at the end of the tunnel.”
This is the fourth time that the Stena Don has visited the Rotterdam facility. Its most recent stopover was in mid-2015 when the rig underwent a special survey and mid-life upgrade.