As Global Offshore Wind 2018 wraps up in Manchester this week, I learned something new…
The most common turbine in UK offshore waters is the Siemens 3.6 MW providing 68% of operational capacity.
How’s that for a fact of the day!
Ok, maybe it isn’t the most exciting fact, but I’m sure it takes on more relevance if you’re the person tasked with maintaining uptime on all of those turbines.
And here’s another quiz night stoater for you – the gearbox on the Siemens 3.6MW weighs 40 tonnes. So if it needs to be repaired or replaced, keeping in mind that issues with gearboxes are one of the most common to arise, you’ll need a heavy-lift vessel.
And that’s where the Heron comes in.
The Heron can easily accommodate the exchange of a gearbox from its second deck, not to mention the exchange of blades and generator too. In fact, the Heron was designed for heavy maintenance. it can operate in up to 45m water depth and with turbines up to 6.5MW. The construction period is estimated at two years so now would be the time to start considering a Heron as part of a heavy maintenance fleet, especially as operators begin to enter a post-warranty period.
With Offshore Wind 2018 wrapping up maybe you or someone you know has heavy maintenance thoughts in mind. The Heron might just be the solution you’re looking for.
Got questions about the engineering specifics? The Heron brochure is here or if you prefer, give Iain a call (07765 937 933).
Jacqueline.