Development of offshore wind feeder vessel USA 

Ampelmann and C-Job Naval Architects have joined forces to develop an offshore wind feeder vessel concept with motion compensation technology, specifically suited for the rigorous demands of operating off the east coast of the United States of America. 

Together they have created a viable solution in response to the need to support the construction and logistics of offshore wind farms in the United States under the Jones Act.

The state-of-the-art offshore wind feeder vessel has an L-shaped superstructure. This enables the transport of all wind turbine components, including the blades, while keeping the ship itself relatively compact minimizing construction and operational costs. To maximize workability and allow for safe lifting of the components, the feeder vessel features a specially designed motion compensation system.

The system stabilises the components of the wind turbine generator (WTG) in six degrees of freedom and is designed for safe lifting operations in sea states up to 2.5m significant wave height. The compensator is positioned close to the vessel’s center where it can compensate all vessel motions and allows for continued operations – even in adverse weather conditions – throughout the year.

The wind turbine components are arranged on the ship with a quick connect grip- and glide system. Cargo pallets are placed on deck quickly thanks to the quick connect system. Once the feeder vessel is at its destination, the system slides the components into place to connect to the motion compensator. The system then compensates all vessel motions, so the crane operator can lift turbine components in a similar fashion to an onshore lift.

Original Source: https://ocean-energyresources.com/2021/04/21/development-of-offshore-wind-feeder-vessel-usa/