Seismic support contracts for China

The vessels will provide support for larger seismic ships which operate continuously when conducting surveys. Designed to have a multi-role capability in support of the mother ship, duties will; includer re-fuelling, fresh water replenishment, provision of refrigerated stores and dry provisions, supply of spares and general stores, emergency towing, and escort support and guard duties.

The IMT 965 carries 980m³ of cargo oil for refuelling the mother ship. Fuel is pumped from a deck-mounted fuel supply module located on the support ship’s working deck. Up to 500m³ of fresh water can be supplied in a similar way.

Cold stores and dry provisions totalling 80m³ can be accessed directly from the working deck of the IMT 965, providing access for transfer to the mother ship, by either the IMT 965 crane or the mother ship crane.

While shadowing the mother ship ,the IMT 965’s activities include keeping passing vessels clear of the streamer arrays, and ensuring that there is a traffic-free area ahead of the mother ship. The vessel is classed with a DP1 notation which will allow it to shadow the mother ship at a pre-set distance for long periods.

The main IMT 965 propulsion arrangement is a hybrid system, comprising twin CP propellers, each driven by a medium-speed diesel engine. A PTO/PTI alternator/motor is connected to each main gearbox, and two 360kWe diesel generators are provided. The system is arranged such that one main engine can drive both propellers for maximum fuel economy.

The IMT 965 is 64.9m length oa, 16m beam, 1,800dwt, with accommodation for a total of 48 persons. Speed is 13 knots.