J. Ray McDermott upgrades derrick/pipelay barge DB50

Offshore staff

HOUSTON -- J. Ray McDermott is upgrading its primary Gulf of Mexico derrick/pipelay barge DB50for future deepwater projects.

The company is replacing the vessel’s power plant with new diesel-engine generator sets, new switchboards, and a power management/alarm system. The existing 2.4 MW controlled pitch thrusters will be replaced with new 2.4 MW fixed pitch/variable AC drive thrusters. In addition, the freshwater and saltwater cooling system and the supply/exhaust ventilation system will be upgraded, the company says.

”This investment in DB50 will significantly increase the station-keeping capability of the vessel, allowing it to operate in more severe weather conditions,” says John Nesser, J. Ray’s executive VP and COO. “These improvements, along with other modifications to ship’s systems over the three year upgrade program will add tremendous value to the vessel’s capabilities, which will ultimately prove beneficial to our customers’ deepwater projects.”

08/12/2009