25,000 tonne pipelay vessel launched

Tiong Woon Oil & Gas Services Pte Ltd has successfully completed its parts of the construction of a 146.3 m long derrick pipelay barge for the owner and operator, NorCE Offshore Pte Ltd (NorCE), at its fabrication yard in Bintan, Indonesia.

The S$64.8 million (US$46.9 million) maiden contract was signed with NorCE in August 2007. Under the contract, Tiong Woon was primarily responsible for building the hull and major sections of the 16,500 tonne vessel as well as installing the owner's equipment.

"I am very proud that we have largely been able to meet all major milestones. The contract is a strategic one for our Bintan Yard as it would open for Tiong Woon considerable opportunities in large shipbuilding and repair projects. At the same time, it has also helped us to build a track record in this highly specialised area," said Ang Kah Hong, Tiong Woon Corporation Holding group chairman and managing director.

The vessel has a gross tonnage of about 25,100 tonnes when completed and is equipped with 7,025 KW generators, a 1,100 tonne marine crane, mooring system and pipelay equipment.

It is capable of operating at up to 200 m depth and handling pipes of up to 48 inches (1.2 m) in diameter.