DNV GL awards class for two self-elevating construction, accommodation units

HØVIK, Norway -- DNV GL will be working with the Chinese-owned Tianjin Desail to develop a new liftboat design for offshore construction, accommodation and maintenance. This collaboration follows an agreement between DNV GL and Tianjin Desail for the classification of two 350 ft (106 m) self-elevating construction and accommodation units.

“The reputation of DNV GL as a leading offshore classification society is one of the main reasons for our selection of class. But more importantly, the efficiency, professionalism and transparency we have experienced from DNV GL during our communication and cooperation reaffirmed our choice to work with DNV GL as a classification partner when entering into the liftboat market,” said Su Shi Lin, general manager of Tianjin Desail.

The units will be equipped with a barge-shaped hull and four triangular lattice legs, each fitted with a spudcan at their lower ends. A work deck topside arrangement will also be developed for the unit, including pedestals for main and auxiliary cranes as well as living quarters with a helicopter deck on top. The units will use a dynamic positioning system for field transit and maneuvering.

“These new type of self-elevating units are the first to be built to DNV GL class in China and the first of their kind to venture into such deep water anywhere in the world,” says DNV GL’s Johan Gärdin, regional offshore manager, Greater China.

With the ever increasing demand for larger operation area coverage, this will be the new trend of liftboat evolvement. “We appreciate the trust of Tianjin Desail in awarding class to DNV GL and we look forward to continuing this cooperation in the future,” Gärdin adds. DNV GL will provide classification, plan approval and construction surveys to ensure the safety and reliability of these offshore units throughout the entire project from design to commissioning.