Mammoet has launched two floating drydocks weighing 1450t each via the float-off method in Saudi Arabia, marking the first time this procedure was performed in the kingdom.
The 85m-long, 34m-wide and 11m-high drydocks, built at Zamil Shipyard in the port of Dammam, are intended for maintenance and repair works of Saudi naval crafts and are commissioned by Constructions Mécaniques de Normandie (CMN), a French naval ship design and construction company.
Mammoet said that its Saudi Arabia branch was contracted by CMN to launch the drydocks using the float-off operation. “Using its vast expertise in marine load-out and float-off operations, Mammoet undertook all engineering, procurement, logistics and execution for the successful float-off of the drydocks,” added the global heavy lifting and moving specialist.
Mammoet’s statement added that In the concept stage, the team proposed a solution for the float-off that has never been performed in the kingdom before. The solution entailed the use of a large floating dock with the capability to perform float-off directly at the jetty. The use of the proposed dock eliminated the traditional offshore float-off and related logistics. This gave the client a commercial advantage that in addition to the costs, saved a significant amount of time.
A thorough transport and marine engineering, multiple risk assessments and warranty surveys were performed to ensure safe and efficient execution. The floating dock, mooring and ballasting equipment were mobilized from UAE along with a specialized team to execute the operation. It was performed in accordance with the requirements of the client, warranty surveyors, shipyard and port authorities and environmental regulations.
Each drydock was safely transported from the fabrication facility to the quayside, then loaded out onto the floating dock using 96 axle lines of Self-Propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT), before being floated off successfully at the right time and tide.
Commenting on the operation, CMN’s Transfer of Technology manager said: “Congratulations to the entire Mammoet team and its subcontractors that have worked so hard during these days. We have been planning this operation together for some time but due to the COVID19 pandemic we had to be inventive and find solutions and avoid delays. The job was well done. Pleasure to have been working with such a great partner as Mammoet.”
