Rolls-Royce books order for anchor handling equipment

Three vessels under construction at STX OSV’s Niteroi, Brazil, shipyard are to have Rolls-Royce advanced anchor handling systems. The vessel’s are on order for DOF ASA’s Brazilian operation, Norskan,  for use in deep water oil and gas fields off the coast of Brazil.

The contract is valued at over UKP 50 million and includes the supply of a range of innovative Rolls-Royce technologies.

Arne Tande, Rolls-Royce, Senior Vice President – Offshore Deck Machinery, said: “The focus of oil and gas exploration and development is moving towards deeper water. Rolls-Royce is particularly well positioned in this sector, supplying world leading technology that enables companies to operate safely in challenging conditions. This contract demonstrates that our safety-critical technology is trusted to deliver when it matters, ensuring that offshore companies can fulfill their demanding missions.”

The anchor handling technology being supplied includes a unique rope tensioner system, which enables the safe transfer and storage of rope that connects anchors many thousands of meters below sea level.

The contract also features Rolls-Royce specialist winches designed for the maneuvering and installation of torpedo anchors. At up to 130 t each, torpedo anchors penetrate the seabed, giving a secure fixing for the heavy-duty mooring lines used to keep oil platforms in position. The powerful winches are each capable of handling anchors at depths of approximately 3,000 m.

Delivery of equipment to the Niteroi shipyard, will begin in 2012.

February 24, 2011