Ulstein Verft has long shipbuilding experience from the new build industry, and the yard's aftermarket department is now experiencing increased interest and inquiries. The yard has the competence to execute many different projects in multiple segments. Recently, the aftermarket department entered a new segment with the conversion assignment for Eidsvaag AS' fish feed carrier, the Eidsvaag Pioner.
Removing tanks to make room for new feed discharge system
"The feed carrier will be equipped with a new feed system. Today, the vessel holds 62 silo tanks. The six fore silos will be removed to make room for a pellet lift from Lachenmeier Monsun A/S", says Marita Myrvågnes, Area Sales Manager Aftermarket at Ulstein Verft.
Conversion of remaining feed silos
"While the pellets are currently transported through pipes from the silos, they will in the future be transported by a new pellet conveyor belt that requires more space. This means that the remaining 56 silos will be rebuilt. We will alter the silo partition to connect the silos in pairs. The silos will be modified and equipped with ‘vibrafloor,’ a system that is developed to ensure gentle unloading of pellets, she says. The deck will also be raised to compensate for reduced silo capacity.
Other changes
"Changes are also made to the compressor room. The new feed system will have a more efficient compressed air system, which means that five blowers will be removed and two new compressors installed. During the stay, Eidsvaag Pioner will also enter our dry dock for class renewal, and Ulstein will carry out some conversion work on the ballast system in connection with other work that is carried out on board.
"In this project, we work closely with the ship owner and the designer Kongsberg Maritime," emphasizes Marita, who recently conducted the handover meeting from sales to the project group in Ulstein Verft.
Eidsvaag AS is having this conversion done to increase the flexibility and utilization of the vessel’s capacities.
"We appreciate that Eidsvaag places confidence in Ulstein Verft for this extensive conversion", says Sales Manager Aftermarket at Ulstein Verft, Martin Sundgot Hansen.
"We have a strong order reserve on newbuilds ahead but have capacity on aftermarket projects, particularly projects that can be performed quayside, such as longer conversion projects. Smaller projects are also welcomed. We are well suited for pipe and steel work, and we have access to a broad resource pool of disciplines internally and our own design and engineering available.
“The shipyard is also well suited for mobilization and demobilization assignments, he concludes.
