ClassNK has awarded an approval in principle (AiP) for the design of a multi-functional floating offshore wind farm support vessel (MFSV) developed by K Line Wind Service.
K Line, a JV between Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha and Kawasaki Kinkai Kisen Kaisha, will work with Japan Marine United Corporation and Nihon Shipyard Co on the project.The installation of floating offshore turbines requires mooring works by vessels, with the whole system composed of an anchor, mooring chain and fibre rope.
The MFSV is designed to perform whole mooring works efficiently for floating offshore wind turbine installation.
This includes transportation of a mooring system, deploying it on the seabed, and anchor tensioning.
According to the companies, the vessel also features a multi-functional concept, providing various solutions in each phase of offshore wind projects such as survey, transportation, construction, and operation & maintenance.ClassNK carried out the design review of the MFSV based on its Part O of Rules for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships for work-ships and SPS Code, as well as IP Code, which will enter into force from July 2024.
Upon confirming it complies with the prescribed requirements, ClassNK issued the AiP.