Over the past years, the Damen Fast Crew Supplier (FCS) 2710 has become a familiar fixture in the offshore wind sector. With approximately 50 vessels in operation to date, the vessel has gained a well deserved reputation for outstanding performance. Now, with a few straightforward modifications, the FCS 2710 is set to support operations in the oil & gas sector, too.
Fast & flexible
The FCS 2710 represents the evolution from the slightly smaller FCS 2610 – an icon of the wind industry that went on to sell no fewer than 47 models – including a significant number in the oil & gas industry. One of the key features of the vessel, ensuring its suitability for wider offshore energy use, is its flexibility. In addition to a range of propulsion options, the FCS 2710 can be configured in diverse ways to accommodate varying numbers of personnel.
“In its standard form, the FCS 2710 is able to transfer up to 24 persons,” explains Wim Boerma, Product Manager High Speed Craft at Damen. “However, with relatively straightforward modification it’s possible to configure the vessel to transport 60, 90, or even 100 offshore personnel, together with between eight and twelve crew members.”
Further ensuring the relevance of the FCS 2710 is its range of up to 1,200 nautical miles and high speeds of up to 25 knots.
“With such a vessel, it is possible to transfer large numbers of people offshore, quickly, in safety and comfort, at considerably lower operational costs than with a helicopter.”
Series built and in stock
Damen operates a stock building programme, designed to offer clients rapid access to a newbuild vessel. As such, the company has constructed a number of FCS 2710 vessels in advance and is nearing completion of several more. The adaptions required for the vessels to serve the oil & gas sector are expected to take just a few short weeks.
Set for oil & gas
To facilitate the transfer of personnel to an oil & gas platform, the FCS 2710 is installed with robust fendering designed to withstand the impact of a push-on platform connection. Once connected, personnel are transferred via hydraulic gangway – clearly visible from the wheelhouse.
“Not only is the transfer safer and more efficient than methods such as swing ropes or baskets, it's entirely suitable for accessing platform at various heights, with the gangway being height adjustable, ensuring optimal operational flexibility.”
Safety in the details
The enhanced safety presented by the transfer methods is one of many examples of enhanced safety presented by the FCS 2710, as Wim explains.
“The emphasis on safety has been integrated into every detail. You can see it in the wheelhouse, which is spacious, ergonomic and features 360-degree views. The deck is another example – this is stepless, spacious and free from obstacles, ensuring both safe working and transfer.”
The deck – comparable to those found on 40-metre workboats – boasts a clean, single level walkway, uninterrupted by transfer equipment or from the passenger accommodation. Additionally, the anchor equipment is recessed to create a flush surface with no tripping hazards for crew.
Defining features
The FCS 2710 also offers excellent seakeeping capabilities – the result of its Damen Twin Axe bow. This distinctive feature allows the vessel to cut effortlessly through the waves with minimal slamming, reducing peak accelerations, flat water resistance, and resistance in waves. It also significantly cuts fuel consumption – as well as associated emissions – by as much as 20%.
Optimally efficient
The FCS 2710 is prepared for compliance with IMO Tier III regulations. This is achieved by installation of a Damen Marine NOX Reduction System – a proven selective catalytic reduction system that reduces emissions up to 80%.
“The FCS 2710 has a very good track record in the offshore wind industry, with a lot of satisfied clients. We firmly believe the vessel has a lot to offer in the oil & gas market. It provides a significant boost to safety, comfort, cost-efficiency, as well as sustainability; all of which are attributes relevant to oil & gas. We’re very much looking forward to seeing the vessel in action in this sector in the coming months and have every confidence in its success,” concludes Wim.