Rolls-Royce books order for new Anchor Recovery Frame

FEBRUARY 24, 20015 — Maersk Supply Service has exercised an option to add Rolls-Royce’s new Anchor Recovery Frames (ARF) to an earlier deck machinery supply contract for six high-end anchor handlers under construction at by Norwegian shipbuilder Kleven Verft AS.

The 95 m SALT 200 design vessels will be built at Kleven’s two shipyards in Norway, Kleven Verft and Myklebust Verft (see earlier story).

The contract is the first for Rolls-Royce’s next generation ARF, designed in cooperation with Maersk to optimize vessel safety and efficiency.

John Knudsen, Rolls-Royce, President Commercial Marine, said: “The success of this next generation Anchor Recovery Frame is testament to the close working relationship we have with Maersk. As with all our customers, it is very important to have a ship supplier/end-user relationship to continuously improve our systems and technologies. The more complex vessels become, and the greater the focus on safety and efficiency, the more differentiated are the kinds of deck machinery our customers need.”

“The new system is designed to reduce the loads generated when anchors are lifted from sea to deck, and lowered from the deck into the sea,” said Runar Hjelle, Rolls-Royce, Area Sales Manager. “When not in use, this innovative recovery frame can be stowed in a deck recess hidden by a mechanically operated hatch cover, providing a much safer working deck environment for ships’ crews. It makes for a more efficient operation.”

Unlike existing Anchor Handling Frames which have a 90 degree operating angle, the Rolls-Royce ARF can be operated at a 126 degree angle to the deck by way of two hydraulic cylinders and a free-rotating roller with a 1,680 mm diameter.
Capable of operation in temperatures ranging from -20º C to 45º C, the 8,840 mm wide, 7,990 mm high recovery frame has a nominal towline tension capacity of 200 tonnes with a lateral force of 50 tonnes.

In addition to the six ARFs, Rolls-Royce will supply each vessel with an advanced deck machinery package comprising a triple drum main anchor handling winch with a pull capacity of 500 tonnes; two secondary winches; cargo securing winches and other auxiliary winches; and a dry bulk cargo system. The scope of supply also includes Rolls-Royce rudders and steering gear.