MV Svenja successfully unloaded 9 modules, marking the culmination of the JSI Alliance’s involvement in the Basrah Refinery Upgrading Project for JGC Corporation. The completion of this extensive logistical endeavor underscores the Alliance’s capability in executing complex projects, attributed to its integrated approach comprising in-house engineering, project management, QSHE, and seasoned crew members.
The Alliance’s commitment to versatility was evident through its utilization of a flexible fleet and an adaptive strategy. Two vessels, the Jumbo Kinetic equipped with two 1,500 t cranes, and the MV Svenja with two 1,000 t cranes, were specifically designated for the project. These vessels collaborated in transporting 84 modules using JGC’s custom lifting frame. Their selection was based on possessing the requisite lifting and transporting capacities while being sufficiently compact to access the confined Morimatsu plant in Nantong, the loading site for the cargo.
Throughout the project, several other vessels from the JSI Alliance fleet played supporting roles, undertaking seven voyages involving equipment such as seven 82 m, 800 t bullet tanks. This endeavor represented a substantial logistical feat, with JSI transporting approximately 450,000 frts of cargo over a year-long period.
By pooling its vessels, the Alliance ensured a flexible service, enabling the deployment of vessels with the necessary capabilities while simultaneously supporting other clients. This approach facilitated seamless module swaps, optimizing workflow continuity and mitigating disruptions.
Moreover, JSI implemented various efficiency-enhancing measures, including investments in HPME rigging and augmenting onboard crew numbers. An innovative enhancement to the lifting frame further streamlined operations, wherein wooden blocks were added to the lifting beam to expedite and secure the process of hooking on modules.
Safety remained paramount throughout the project, with the close collaboration among JSI Alliance partners bolstering safety standards. Lessons learned from each voyage were shared among all stakeholders, fostering continuous improvement in safety protocols.
Kiharu Yamashita, Project Logistics Manager of JGC Corporation, expressed satisfaction with the Alliance’s performance, emphasizing the seamless communication and collaboration between parties, which significantly contributed to the project’s safe and efficient execution.
Robert de Waard, Project Manager at JSI, extended gratitude to JGC for their trust and cooperation, acknowledging the collective efforts of colleagues and crew members in achieving efficiency gains throughout the project duration.
Port captain Mike Ma underscored the pivotal role of port captains in overseeing the multifaceted logistics of such projects, highlighting the anticipation, adaptation, and alignment required for successful project completion.
The Basrah Refinery Upgrading Project, awarded to JGC by the South Refineries Company under the Iraq Ministry of Oil, holds significant implications for Iraq’s energy landscape. Upon completion, the refinery will bolster domestic petroleum production, curbing import reliance, fostering economic development, and job creation.