KR helps with VLCC conversion

Madison Orca, which is owned by Monarc and managed by Navig8, was converted in a reduced time frame to optimise resources and save cost. Originally built in 2010 by Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) as one of eight OBOs, the vessel was converted to take advantage of the more promising crude oil markets.

KR was involved throughout the conversion process from the initial planning stages through to the final performance evaluation.

“Reducing the time required to undertake the conversion has saved resources and cost for our client. We maintain a focus on safety and pride ourselves on operating beyond compliance to deliver an exceptional service to our clients,” said Dr C W Kim, executive vice president, KR.

The large scale conversion included the installation of five swash bulkheads located in the centre cargo tank, the removal of the cross deck structure and hatch coamings, and construction of new upper deck structures incorporating an additional 2,300 tonnes of steelwork.

The new swash bulkheads were constructed to a bespoke KR design. Not incorporated as part of the original OBO design, their installation was required to enable partial oil loading in the centre tank.

IACS Common Structural Rules were applied to the new VLCC design.

KR carried out further, more in depth testing to ensure performance and safety by undertaking sloshing analysis using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) due to the breadth of the centre tank being broader than most conventional VLCCs.