The multi-role utility vessel MV ‘Tor Boreas’ is on her way to the UK having successfully completed trials.
The cutting-edge vessel is the result of the latest project between Macduff Ship Design and Tor Group. She represents both a new class of vessel for Tor Group and a new way of building, utilising modular assembly to enable more time off the slipway in a purpose-built facility in Tuzla, Turkey.
Tor Boreas is able to support multiple industries but with the specific ability to conduct a large range of tasks within the offshore wind sector. Her 23.95m registered length enables operation under UK MCA workboat code edition III regulations and being built to Bureau Veritas regulations and approval allows for international operation.
Driven by a diesel electric power train to ensure optimal efficiency, combined with the tier III engine exhaust system gives Tor Boreas reduced emissions during operation compared to a conventional diesel driven vessel. 3 MAN D2676 main generators each rated at 340 ekW, 400 V, 50 Hz supply electricity to the main control systems. The electric drive motors are connected to twin Schottel SRP 210 FP azimuth drives which when combined with the Veth VT-90 bow thruster gives high levels of manoeuvrability with full Dynamic Positioning capability. In addition, the vessel also has a 4-point mooring anchoring arrangement onboard to allow for longer term station keeping.
In conjunction with the station keeping abilities the vessel is also fitted with a Gyro Stabilisation system supplied by Veem. This system significantly reduces vessel motion allowing for both crew comfort and service operations to be conducted in higher sea states than would normally be possible.
A comprehensive range of deck equipment enables multiple different operations. These include a Melcal 5 T hydraulic ‘A’ Frame at the stern, a Melcal KT 120T3 offshore crane is arranged to starboard aft to cover the entire working deck and to work over the starboard side with an optional boulder grappling attachment. Midships on the main deck is a 25 T electric towing winch which can be used for towage or work over the stern, utilising the 500 mm diameter 30 T stern roller.
Additional flexibility for underwater operations is achieved using a 1500mm x 1500mm moon pool to work with either the ‘A’ Frame or the crane. The main deck also has 75 square metres of usable deck space and an ability to carry up to 60 Tonnes of deck cargo or 3 x 20-foot containers and is arranged with modular installation for dive and survey support units.
With the ability to carry 70m3 of fuel and over 35m3 of freshwater, combined with the onboard sewage treatment system, Tor Boreas is able to stay at sea for an extended period.
Macduff Ship Design and Tor Group stated, “We are thrilled to have been part of this project which showcases the abilities of both Tor Group as builders and Macduff Ship Design as designers to develop and build such an innovative and complex vessel within a relatively compact length.”
