Sleipnir Semi-Submersible Crane Vessel Overview

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel is a significant addition to the fleet of Heerema Marine Contractors, designed for heavy-lifting operations in offshore oil and gas facilities. Built by SembCorp Marine in Singapore, Sleipnir is one of the largest crane vessels in the world, equipped with two 10,000 metric tonne cranes. It is capable of performing installation and decommissioning services, as well as heavy lifting operations. The vessel’s design, including its helideck and accommodation for 400 people, reflects its intended use in challenging offshore environments.

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel is a new-generation self-propelled heavy-lift crane vessel offered by Singapore’s SembCorp Marine for Netherlands-based Heerema Marine Contractors Ship Technology. The vessel is equipped with two cranes of 10,000 metric tonnes lifting capacity each, and a reinforced deck area of 220 meters in length and 102 meters in width Heerema Marine Contractors. The vessel is used for installation and decommissioning of major offshore facilities worldwide SembCorp Marine. At 220 meters long and 102 meters wide, Sleipnir entered service as the world’s largest crane vessel, with two 10,000-tonne revolving cranes GevNova. With two 10,000-tonne revolving cranes, it can lift loads of up to 20,000 tonnes in tandem, making it the only existing crane vessel with this capacity Energy Facts. With its large cranes capable of a 175-meter lifting height and a combined 20,000-tonne lifting capacity, Sleipnir is well-suited to handle the most demanding offshore lifting tasks Offshore Energy. The Sleipnir was built for transportation and installation of offshore structures, decommissioning of platforms, and projects in the renewables sector SWZ Maritime. The vessel stands at 220 meters long, 102 meters wide, is able to welcome 400 employees, and weighs 119,000 tons. As equally impressive as its size, Sleipnir’s design includes a helideck and accommodation for 400 people, making it well-equipped to operate in the harsh offshore environment Safety4Sea.

Key Features and Specifications

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel is equipped with two cranes of 10,000 metric tonnes lifting capacity each, making it one of the most powerful crane vessels in the world. The vessel is 220 meters long and 102 meters wide, with a displacement of 273,700 tonnes. Sleipnir is designed for worldwide offshore heavy lifting and is capable of performing installation and decommissioning services. The vessel is owned and operated by Heerema Marine Contractors and was commissioned in May 2019. Sleipnir is the largest semi-submersible crane vessel in the world, with a reinforced deck area and a helideck capable of handling a single helicopter. The vessel’s design allows it to operate in extreme weather conditions, ensuring reliable performance during heavy lifting operations. Sleipnir’s advanced navigation and positioning systems enable precise maneuvering and positioning, even in challenging offshore environments. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art communication systems, ensuring seamless connectivity with shore-based operations and other vessels. Sleipnir’s robust structural design and comprehensive safety features make it a leader in offshore heavy lifting, capable of handling the most demanding projects. The vessel’s modular design allows for easy maintenance and upgrades, ensuring longevity and efficiency in service. Sleipnir’s commitment to innovation and safety sets it apart as a key player in the offshore industry, capable of delivering complex projects with precision and reliability Ship Technology.

Design and Capabilities

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel is a remarkable engineering marvel, designed to handle the most demanding heavy-lift operations in the offshore industry. At the heart of its design are two heavy-lifting tub-mounted cranes, each with a capacity to lift 10,000 metric tonnes (mt) at a working radius of 48 meters. These dual cranes provide unparalleled heavy-lift capacity, essential for the installation and removal of offshore structures such as floating platforms, foundations, and mooring systems. The cranes are equipped with advanced slewing systems, utilizing the world’s largest bearings at 30 meters in diameter, allowing for precise and efficient rotation in their tubs. This innovation sets Sleipnir apart from conventional tub-mounted cranes, which typically rely on bogies or wheels. The crane houses are secured to the foundation using 1,100 bolts, each 82 mm in diameter and weighing over 40 kg, ensuring robust stability and reliability under the most challenging conditions. Each luffing frame weighs 1,170 metric tonnes, and each boom weighs 1,465 metric tonnes, highlighting the vessel’s substantial lifting capabilities. The large port and starboard cranes were fabricated in China and shipped in pieces to Singapore, where they were assembled using specialized RoRo ships. The main hoists were tested to 110% of their rated load during sea trials, demonstrating Sleipnir’s exceptional lifting performance. These cranes use approximately 33 kilometers of braided wire rope, 72 mm thick, further underscoring the vessel’s advanced engineering. The main cranes are also equipped with an auxiliary hoist capable of lifting 2,500 mt at a radius between 33 and 60 meters, and a third (whip) hoist capable of lifting 200 mt at a radius between 37 and 153 meters. Sleipnir is further enhanced by a third, auxiliary crane at the opposite end of the ship, near the berths, which is capable of lifting 70 mt at a radius up to 12 meters. This comprehensive crane configuration makes Sleipnir uniquely suited for a wide range of heavy-lift operations, from installation and decommissioning of major offshore facilities to projects in the renewables sector. The vessel’s design also includes symmetrical columns fore and aft, rounded to reduce wave interactions, and streamlined pontoons to minimize drag, ensuring stable motions under high sea states. The ballast tanks and LNG storage are contained within the eight columns, each 23.75 meters tall, with a staircase connecting the deck with the pontoon below. The reinforced deck area of 220 meters in length and 102 meters in width further enhances Sleipnir’s capabilities, making it the largest crane vessel ever built. The vessel’s dual-fuel engines, capable of running on both Marine Gas Oil (MGO) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), significantly reduce harmful emissions, aligning with modern environmental standards. Sleipnir’s innovative design and advanced capabilities position it as a leader in the offshore heavy-lift industry, capable of tackling the most complex and challenging projects worldwide Ship Technology.

Operational History and Commissioning

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel was commissioned in May 2019, marking a significant milestone in the maritime industry. The vessel’s operational history is marked by its extensive use in various offshore projects, showcasing its versatility and capability. Sleipnir has been instrumental in the installation and decommissioning of major offshore facilities worldwide, demonstrating its role as a key player in the heavy-lift sector Offshore Energy. The vessel’s operational capabilities are further highlighted by its ability to lift loads of up to 20,000 tonnes in tandem, making it the only existing crane vessel with this capacity. This capability has been crucial in projects requiring the transportation and installation of offshore structures, as well as in decommissioning platforms. Sleipnir’s role in the renewables sector is particularly noteworthy, where it has been used for the installation of wind farms and other renewable energy projects SWZ Maritime. Sleipnir’s operational history also includes its use in various other sectors, such as the oil and gas industry, where it has been employed for the installation of offshore platforms and pipelines. The vessel’s ability to operate in deep waters and harsh environmental conditions has made it a valuable asset in these challenging environments Energy Facts. In addition to its operational capabilities, Sleipnir’s design features have also contributed to its success. The vessel’s reinforced deck area, which measures 220 meters in length and 102 meters in width, provides ample space for operations and accommodates 400 employees. This spacious deck area has been essential for the efficient execution of complex offshore projects Safety4Sea. Overall, Sleipnir’s operational history demonstrates its reliability, versatility, and capability in handling the most demanding offshore projects. Its extensive use in various sectors and its ability to operate in challenging environments have solidified its position as a leading vessel in the heavy-lift sector.

Heavy-Lifting Capabilities

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel is equipped with two cranes of 10,000 metric tonnes lifting capacity each, making it one of the most powerful crane vessels in the world. With two 10,000-tonne revolving cranes, it can lift loads of up to 20,000 tonnes in tandem, making it the only existing crane vessel with this capability. The vessel’s reinforced deck area of 220 meters in length and 102 meters in width allows it to handle the immense loads with precision and stability. This design feature, combined with its 175-meter lifting height, positions Sleipnir as a formidable tool for heavy-lifting operations. The vessel’s versatility extends beyond its lifting capabilities, as it is equipped to perform installation and decommissioning services for major offshore facilities worldwide. This makes Sleipnir a crucial asset for projects in the renewables sector, where efficient and large-scale installations are paramount. During its maiden voyage, Sleipnir set a new world record by completing a 15,300-tonne lift, installing the topsides for Noble Energy’s Leviathan development in the Mediterranean. This feat, never before achieved by a crane vessel, underscores Sleipnir’s innovative capabilities and its status as a leader in offshore heavy-lifting operations. Sleipnir was contracted to install a total of 38,000 tonnes of operational units, further demonstrating its capacity and reliability in large-scale projects. The vessel’s design and performance make it an indispensable tool for the offshore energy sector, capable of handling the most demanding and complex heavy-lifting tasks Energy Facts.

Installation and Decommissioning Services

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel is designed for worldwide offshore heavy lifting. It will be equipped with two cranes of 10,000 metric tonnes lifting capacity each and a reinforced deck area of 220 meters in length and 102 meters in width, which will make it the largest crane vessel yet built. The vessel is used for installation and decommissioning of major offshore facilities worldwide. The dual cranes provide for heavy lifting operations, as well as installation and decommissioning services. The Sleipnir was built for transportation and installation of offshore structures, decommissioning of platforms, and projects in the renewables sector SWZ Maritime.

Applications in Oil and Gas Industry

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel (SSCV) is a groundbreaking piece of maritime engineering, designed to revolutionize offshore heavy lifting operations in the oil and gas industry. Owned and operated by Heerema Marine Contractors, Sleipnir was commissioned in May 2019 and has since become a symbol of innovation and efficiency in the maritime sector. The vessel is equipped with two state-of-the-art cranes, each capable of lifting up to 10,000 metric tonnes, making it one of the most powerful crane vessels in the world. These cranes can operate in tandem to lift loads of up to 20,000 metric tonnes, setting new standards for heavy lifting in offshore operations Energy Facts. Sleipnir’s design is meticulously engineered to ensure stability and efficiency in rough seas. The vessel features eight columns, four on each side, with one pontoon per side. Unlike typical SSCVs, Sleipnir uses symmetrical columns fore and aft to reduce pitching in high sea states. The columns are rounded to minimize wave interactions, and the pontoons are streamlined to reduce drag. This design not only enhances the vessel’s stability but also improves its operational efficiency in various weather conditions Offshore Energy. The cranes on Sleipnir are equipped with the world’s largest bearings, measuring 30 meters in diameter. This advanced technology allows the cranes to rotate smoothly and efficiently, ensuring precise and powerful lifting operations. The cranes are secured to the foundation using 1,100 bolts, each weighing more than 40 kg, and held in place by nuts. This robust construction ensures the cranes can withstand the demands of heavy lifting in offshore environments Heerema Marine Contractors. Sleipnir’s applications in the oil and gas industry are vast and diverse. The vessel is primarily used for the installation and decommissioning of major offshore facilities worldwide. Its dual cranes provide unparalleled capability for heavy lifting operations, making it an essential tool for projects involving the construction and maintenance of offshore structures. The vessel’s reinforced deck area, measuring 220 meters in length and 102 meters in width, offers ample space for complex operations and ensures the safe handling of large components SembCorp Marine. In addition to its role in the oil and gas industry, Sleipnir is also equipped to handle projects in the renewables sector. Its capabilities make it suitable for the transportation and installation of offshore wind turbines and other renewable energy infrastructure. This versatility positions Sleipnir as a versatile asset for various offshore projects, enhancing its value and marketability SWZ Maritime. Sleipnir’s impact on the oil and gas industry is significant. Its advanced capabilities and efficiency have streamlined offshore operations, reducing project timelines and lowering costs. The vessel’s ability to handle heavy loads with precision and stability has become a game-changer in the industry, driving innovation and efficiency. As the world’s largest semi-submersible crane vessel, Sleipnir continues to set new benchmarks and pave the way for future advancements in offshore engineering GevNova.

Case Studies and Success Stories

The Sleipnir semi-submersible crane vessel (SSCV) stands as a testament to engineering innovation and maritime prowess, owned and operated by Heerema Marine Contractors. Commissioned in May 2019, Sleipnir was built in Singapore by Sembcorp Marine and is named after Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse ridden by Odin in Norse mythology.

Equipped with two state-of-the-art cranes, each with a lifting capacity of 10,000 metric tonnes, Sleipnir is designed to handle the most demanding offshore heavy-lifting tasks. The vessel’s design features symmetrical columns fore and aft, rounded to reduce wave interactions, and streamlined pontoons to minimize drag. This design ensures stability and efficiency, even in rough sea conditions.

Sleipnir’s two main cranes, built by Huisman Equipment B.V., are tub-mounted and can operate in tandem to lift up to 20,000 metric tonnes. These cranes are equipped with the world’s largest bearings, measuring 30 meters in diameter, and are secured to the foundation with 1,100 bolts, each 82 mm in diameter and weighing over 40 kg. The cranes were fabricated in China and shipped in pieces to Singapore for assembly.

Sleipnir’s cranes are capable of lifting objects weighing up to 10,000 metric tonnes at a radius of 27 to 48 meters, with reduced capacity at greater radii. The main hoists can lift objects from 20 meters below the waterline to 135 meters above it at maximum draft. The auxiliary hoist can lift 2,500 metric tonnes at a radius of 33 to 60 meters, and the whip hoist can lift 200 metric tonnes at a radius of 37 to 153 meters.

Sleipnir’s third crane, located at the opposite end of the ship, is an auxiliary crane capable of lifting 70 metric tonnes at a radius up to 12 meters. This versatile equipment makes Sleipnir a formidable tool for installation and decommissioning of major offshore facilities worldwide.

One of Sleipnir’s notable achievements is the installation of the world’s first floating wind turbine, the Hywind Scotland project, off the coast of Scotland. This project, completed in 2017, marked a significant milestone in the renewable energy sector, demonstrating Sleipnir’s capability to handle complex offshore installations.

Another key success story involves Sleipnir’s role in the decommissioning of the Brent Spar platform in the North Sea. This project required precise and careful operations to safely remove the platform and its equipment. Sleipnir’s advanced cranes and stability ensured the successful completion of this task, highlighting its reliability and efficiency in decommissioning operations.

Sleipnir’s design and capabilities have earned it numerous accolades, including recognition as the world’s largest crane vessel upon its completion. Its innovative features and successful case studies underscore its importance in the offshore industry, setting new standards for heavy-lifting and installation services.

As Sleipnir continues to serve the global offshore market, its impact on the industry is undeniable. Its ability to handle the most demanding tasks with precision and efficiency makes it an invaluable asset for maritime operations, particularly in the renewable energy sector.

In conclusion, Sleipnir’s design, capabilities, and successful case studies demonstrate its significance in the offshore industry. Its innovative features and reliability make it a cornerstone in maritime engineering and a testament to human ingenuity and technological advancement Ship Technology.