Photos: Heerema’s DP3 Vessel Aegir Installs First Offshore Wind Turbine

On September 30, Heerema’s Aegir successfully installed the DOT wind turbine on its previously installed monopile connected by a Slip Joint. Heerema Marine Contractors, project stakeholder of the SJOR-consortium, decided to step into this project to present herself to the industry as an installation contractor who is also focusing on the transportation and installation of wind turbine foundations & turbines.

SJOR pick-up from Quay SIF
Image Credits: hmc.heerema.com

The DOT wind turbine is located in the Eneco Princess Amalia Wind Park off the coast of IJmuiden, the Netherlands. The complete wind turbine was picked up in a single lift by Heerema’s lifting vessel Aegir from the quay of Sif Rotterdam and transported towards its designated location.

4 DOT - SJOR ready for installation 1
Image Credits: hmc.heerema.com

The fully assembled turbine was installed by Aegir as a floating vessel and kept in position by Dynamic Positioning (DP). The installation of the wind turbine took less than 1 hour in total, which is noticeably faster than usual installation.

6 DOT - SJOR ready - installed
Image Credits: hmc.heerema.com

 

The Slip Joint is an alternative connection between an offshore wind turbine and its foundation. The connection is based on friction, where the weight ensures a firm and stable connection. Installation is done by simply sliding the wind turbine over the monopile without the use of grout or bolts.

DOT - SJOR installed overview
Image Credits: hmc.heerema.com

This simple mechanism allows for cost reduction in material, equipment and personnel as well as allowing for a shorter installation time. It is the first time a slip-joint connection is deployed offshore.

Reference: heerema.com

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