NORMAND FLOWER First UT 737 proves its value

Since Normand Flower was handed over to Solstad Shipping in September, the vessel has operated in the North Sea carrying out a variety of roles. Built by the Norwegian shipyard Soviknes Verft, part of the Aker Brattvaag Group, this newbuilding is the first example of Rolls Royce Marine?s UT 737 design to enter service.

The 4,100 dwt vessel has DP-3 classification. One job undertaken, for example, involved installing a drilling tower in one of the Danish sector oil fields. The vessel is currently operating in Nigeria as a maintenance vessel fitted with flare-off equipment and connected to a processing platform rig.

Solstad?s superintendent, Conrad Melhus, is satisfied with the vessel although, as the prototype, it has experienced some inevitable minor teething problems.

The two 2.3 MW Compact Azipods supplied by ABB have proven to be very efficient in service, he says, particularly when utilising dynamic positioning. The manufacturer says they provide enhanced manoeuvrability and safety, fuel savings, and reduced noise and vibration.

Low hull and machinery induced noise combined with optimum motion characteristics is important since one function of Normand Flower is as a seismic research vessel helping oil companies attain precise seismic data.

Normand Flower featured in the November 2002 edition of The Motor Ship.