Two new state-of-the-art Ramform Titan-class seismic vessels under construction at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries yard in Japan for Norway headquartered Petroleum Geo Services (PGS) will feature a significant delivery from Kongsberg Maritime including integrated navigation, Dynamic Positioning and an extensive back-deck handling systems package.

The contracts, valued at more than US$50m, were signed by Kongsberg Maritime and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, following PGS’ decision to exercise its options to order a further two Ramform Titan-class vessels (3 & 4) from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in October 2012. The new Kongsberg Maritime ‘Full Picture’ packages for PGS Ramform Titan-class vessels 3 & 4 are based on the systems supplied for the first two vessels, which are close to completion and expected to be delivered in 2013. Ramform Titan-class vessels 3 & 4 are scheduled for delivery in 2015 respectively.

The unique Ramform Titan-class vessel design is based on the demonstrated strengths of the current Ramform fleet, while improving capabilities along a number of key parameters. The Ramform Titan-class includes a significantly upgraded GeoStreamer based seismic package and is designed to maximise the full benefits of the GeoStreamer towing efficiency.

Supporting the advanced PGS developed GeoStreamer seismic technology is an extensive delivery including back-deck handling systems, hydraulic and winch systems and integrated control system from Kongsberg Maritime subsidiary Kongsberg Evotec. These systems are field proven for the safe and efficient handling of streamers and other equipment on the back-deck. A specialised redundant seismic track system will be delivered as part of the Kongsberg Maritime K-Pos DP class 2 system and Thruster Control Systems, whilst navigation for Ramform Titan-class vessels will be carried out using the advanced K-Bridge integrated bridge system.

Geir Håøy, President, Kongsberg Maritime, commented: “Kongsberg Maritime shows real innovation by offering solutions and products to make seismic operations more effective, whilst also enhancing vessel management. Our ‘Full Picture’ seismic offering includes advanced vessel navigation and manoeuvring systems for efficient and secure transit and operations, a wide range of integrated seismic back-deck handling systems for improving operational safety and efficiency, together with specific technical solutions to enhance seismic acquisition.

“As a single supplier for such a wide range of innovative systems, we are in a strong position to support the expanding seismic market and are well positioned to capitalise on market investment in the coming years.”

Tags: Kongsberg Maritime