Partnership Forges Advanced Cable-Laying Vessel
Aiming to revolutionize the submarine cable industry, Singapore’s Megamas Resources has joined forces with Renaissance Technologies. Jointly, they’ve entrusted Ulstein Design & Solutions AS with the honour of pioneering a cutting-edge cable laying and repair vessel’s design. This monumental strategic decision, announced on Thursday, aims to address the industry’s pressing issues: a lack of cable ships and an increasingly aging fleet.
Addressing the Industry Gap with Innovative Cable Layers
Megamas Resources has set an ambitious plan to take a significant stride for the industry. The company targets the construction of two innovative cable layers, with the first forecasted to spring into action by early 2026. Fundamental to their strategy is combating the industry shortage and meeting the rising demand for these technologically advanced vessels.
Specifications and Key Features of the New Cable Vessel
Tailored for the precise application of installing and maintaining submarine cables, this marine marvel is designed to handle both fiber-optic telecommunication cables and power cables alike. Special attention has been given to the inter-array and export power cables exclusive to offshore wind farms.
The upcoming vessel boasts impressive dimensions, being 120 meters long and 23 meters wide. It can house 70 people comfortably with a deadweight capacity of a staggering 8,000 tonnes. When at sea, the vessel can steadily cruise at a speed of 14 knots. Being DP2 Class certified, it can operate safely in shallow water reaching down to 15 meters.
Smart Tech Integration Reducing Costs and Time
The cable vessel will feature an advanced acoustic sonar integrated into its build for efficient seabed mapping. Promising an unmatched quality, Ulstein asserts that this vessel will deliver high-resolution data, reducing ship survey time and driving down associated costs.
Designed with two cable tanks, one will have a carousel system with a guided spooler for greater ease of operation. Another standout feature is an integral hangar that allows for operations and sheltered upkeep of the TROV. Additionally, an A-Frame installed at the stern enables the vessel to carry out all types of cable burial operations. This synergistic integration of innovative design and technology marks an exciting new era for the cable-submarine industry.
