In a notable achievement at Qingdao Port as the semi-submersible vessel XIN GUANG HUA, the largest of its kind in Asia, expertly submerged to load the HAI KUI No.1. This cylindrical FPSO, independently engineered and constructed in China, is the most voluminous in Asia. With the binding process completed, HAI KUI No.1 is now set to depart for its crucial role in China’s pioneering deep-water oil field, the Liuhua Oil Field.
The XIN GUANG HUA, part of the COSCO SHIPPING fleet, boasts a 100,000 DWT capacity, making it the flagship among COSCO SHIPPING Specialized Carrier’s semi-submersible vessels. This ship has an impressive track record, handling oversized, overweight, ultra-high, and ultra-long cargoes with ease. Previous noteworthy projects include transporting China’s first fully contracted FPSO project, Hope 6, and the world’s leading 100,000 DWT deep-water semi-submersible production and oil storage platform, the SHEN HAI YI HAO hull project. These feats underscore XIN GUANG HUA’s suitability for such complex and large-scale operations.
The operation began early in the morning on May 12. At 5:50 AM, the two floating tank units were ready for ascent aboard the tanker, prompting XIN GUANG HUA to commence its descent, officially marking the start of the floating installation operation. By 6:55 PM, the deck had fully emerged from the water. Following comprehensive inspections by all involved parties, HAI KUI No.1 was confirmed to be securely and accurately positioned on the pier, marking the successful completion of XIN GUANG HUA’s submersible loading operation. Measurements revealed no discrepancies, affirming the precision of the operation.
COSCO SHIPPING Specialized Carrier’s semi-submersible fleet has a history of transporting seven FPSOs of various types, including four of this specific category. The diameter of the platform bases has progressively increased, starting from the initial 60 meters to the Hope 7 at 74.3 meters, then Hope 6 at 87.5 meters, and now reaching an impressive 90 meters with the HAI KUI No.1. This progression not only breaks previous records but also sets new benchmarks within the company’s fleet for transporting the heaviest and largest cylindrical cargo ever.
This successful operation reinforces COSCO SHIPPING’s capabilities in handling complex maritime logistics, particularly in the realm of FPSO transportation. The seamless loading of HAI KUI No.1 on XIN GUANG HUA showcases the expertise and reliability of COSCO SHIPPING Specialized Carrier in executing large-scale, intricate operations. As HAI KUI No.1 embarks on its journey to the Liuhua Oil Field, it marks another significant achievement in China’s maritime and energy sectors, reflecting the country’s growing prowess in offshore engineering and deep-water oil extraction.