Worlds biggest rig sets sail

Drydocks World Dubai recently completed the construction of a 16,300 tonne drilling rig hull

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The 120 metre long, 77 metre wide and 37

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5 metre high ?Alpha Aker Spitsbergen? hull is currently being towed to the Aker Kvaerner Stord yard in Norway for outfitting involving installation of the deck structure including drilling equipment, accommodation and final commissioning

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Manufacturing of the hull started in May last year, and is one of two being built to DNV’s classification standards for offshore construction, which require special steel qualities and strict welding requirements for the complete unit

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The contract with Aker Kvaerner includes the steel construction of the two hulls up to main deck, installation of piping systems, dynamic positioning (DP) systems, mud tanks and sophisticated hull and tank coating as well as extensive electric wiring work

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Both are semi submersible drilling rigs, designed for deep sea drilling in harsh environment and arctic conditions

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