Ulmatec gangway to provide access for Edison Chouest wind vessel

The 260-ft vessel, said to be the first US-built Jones Act service operation ship, is under construction by Edison affiliate North American Shipbuilding, with cabins and facilities for 60 technicians.

Ulmatec’s gangway will provide a 12-m telescope compensation range, adjustable access height (to the wind turbines), an integrated elevator in the gangway pedestal and potential for power regeneration during gangway operations.

Logistics provision will be via autonomous trolleys along the step-less gangway, with loading and unloading of the vessel performed by a 6-metric ton crane. For offshore use, a 3D compensated, 3-metric-ton crane will be accessible via the underside of the gangway.

According to Ulmatec sales manager Bjørn Gjerde, “This is a vital piece of equipment for the vessel and one of the main requirements for uninterrupted service throughout the year in all sea states.

“We have, together with ECO, planned the optimal layout for the vessel and developed several custom solutions…Our gangway system is fully DP integrated, assisting the crew in choosing the right access point and route between the wind turbines.”

Chief commercial officer sales manager Bjørnar Huse added, “With the gangway, we have a full product program for handling equipment on an offshore wind vessel. Our service organization can fully support the US market with remote assistance from our engineers in Norway.”

08.17.2022