Converteam upgrade for offshore construction vessel

An integrated package of electrical power and associated control systems will be designed, delivered and commissioned by Converteam Inc. for Houston-based J. Ray McDermott’s dynamically-positioned construction vessel DB50. A major upgrading programme has been initiated on the Gulf of Mexico derrick/pipelayer in preparation for future deepwater projects.

New gensets, switchboards and thrusters will replace the existing power plant and propulsor outfit.

The original four 2,400kW CPP thrusters will be replaced by six 2,400kW fixed pitch propeller units linked to Converteam’s MV3000 PWM variable speed drives.

Converteam is also responsible for the remaining electrical elements of the power generation and propulsion systems, including the generators, 6.6kV switchboards, transformers and thruster motors. Various other elements – such as the low voltage switchboards and soft starter cubicles – will also be supplied by the company.

C-Series control systems from Converteam are also specified.

These will include an extensive dual-redundant DP system, manual thruster controls and power management/machinery alarm and automation systems, together forming an integrated suite which interfaces seamlessly with the power generation and propulsion equipment.

Converteam has been associated with the DB50 from the time she was built, delivering what was then a sophisticated DP and mooring assist system. MP