Damen Unveils Beastly 200T Bollard Pull Anchor Handler

Netherlands-based Damen Shipyards Group unveiled today the AHTS 200, the latest vessel within their “Offshore Series” of designs.  A powerful, and versatile deepwater Anchor Handling Tug Supplier (AHTS), this ship is capable of operating in water depths in excess of 3,000 m, is bollard pull rated up to 200 tons, and features an innovative new 400 ton winch package.   

Research

Along with Damen’s typical ship design philosophy’s which incorporate safety, functionality, standardization, modularization, ease of maintenance and overall quality, extensive research analysis was executed on the AHTS 200 to optimize qualities such as:

• Hull form optimization
• Sea keeping
• Noise and vibration reduction
• Fuel oil consumption,
• Changing rules and regulations

In addition, close attention was paid to client-specific needs and lessons-learned from other Damen designs.

Innovative winch package

The Damen AHTS 200 includes a new and innovative winch arrangement which is quite decisive for the overall dimensions and layout of the vessel. For the development of this extensive winch package Damen teamed-up with Huisman Equipment, which specializes in heavy lift and deepwater cranes, winches and drilling equipment. The electrically driven winches resulting from this cooperation may be considered an innovative approach, as the market is traditionally dominated by low-pressure hydraulics. The electrical-drive winches provide a clean, green, economical, functional and safe solution for the anticipated operations.

Propulsion

The vessel is suited to generate 200-250 t Bollard Pull and is fitted with engines in a father-son layout, featuring twin-in single-out gearboxes driving CP propellers in a nozzle. High performance flap-type rudders fitted to rotary vane steering gears facilitate a high degree of manoeuvrability supported by ample side thrust capacity, including tunnel thrusters as well as retractable thrusters in fore and aft ship.

Outfitting options

Forward of the winches ample space has been reserved for the fitting of a high-end ROV system with the possibility of launching through a side door. The high beam AHTS could serve as a suitable platform for mounting a subsea construction crane. The design can easily be upgraded with dedicated anti-heeling systems, moon pools and sophisticated diving systems.

Accommodation

The accommodation can host up to 45 persons in single and double cabins fitted according to the Damen Business or Executive Line comprising modern and durable materials. Special attention is paid to sufficient natural lighting through maximum-sized windows. State-of-the-art infotainment systems, offering multiple levels of data communication, support the functionality and comfort of the vessel.

Although driven by its standardization philosophy Damen offers ample opportunities to include owner’s standards and component choices for maximal support of their operations.

The vessel is designed following an extensive DNV-class notation, although other class societies may be considered as well.

Images via Damen