The Sleipnir, Heerema Marine Contractor’s newest semi-submersible crane vessel, has completed its sea trials and crane load tests. It is the world's first LNG-powered construction vessel as well as the largest crane vessel in the world.
The vessel was built at Sembcorp Marine in Singapore. Its speed was tested offshore Singapore and when fully deploying all eight thrusters, a speed was reached of 12.2 knots, approximately 22.6 kilometres per hour. This will significantly reduce transit time to projects around the world.
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The Sleipnir during speed tests.
Cranes Tested at 110 Per Cent Capacity
The vessel’s two 10,000-tonne revolving cranes, which can lift loads of up to 20,000 tonnes in tandem, were also put to the test. Being the largest crane vessel in the world, the Sleipnir can lift huge loads. Operational tests were carried out with loads of 11,000 tonnes per crane (110 per cent of its capacity), which were completed successfully.
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Crane rotation test with 11,000 tonnes lifted above deck.
DP Testing
The dynamic positioning (DP) system performed even better than the specifications. The system can keep the Sleipnir stationary within the footprint of a garden tile of 30 x 30 centimetres during operational work.
The Sleipnir will soon commence its maiden voyage to southern Spain where it will be prepared for its first installation project in the Mediterranean.
Picture (top): The Sleipnir lifting 11,000 tonnes with its starboard crane (all pictures by Heerema Marine Contractors).
