World’s first MCV sails from Drydocks World – Dubai

Drydocks World, the well-established international service provider, announced that the world’s first Modular Capture Vessel (MCV), Eagle Texas, sailed away from its yard. The conversion of the AFRA max tanker was carried out by Drydocks World – Dubai and was completed for Singapore-based AET, a global leader in petroleum shipping, and is the first of two similar projects. AET is under a 20-year agreement with Marine Well Containment Company (MWCC) a consortium of 10 world-renowned companies comprised of Anadarko, Apache, BHP Billiton, BP, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, ExxonMobil, Hess, Shell and Statoil – all committed to safe deepwater drilling in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

The scope of work of the shipyard included installing components such as four retractable azimuth thrusters, one tunnel bow thruster, new machinery spaces, diesel generator sets and associated tanks, auxiliaries, switchboards, and electrical distribution equipment. The main engine was modified for CPP operation and a control system was added for dynamic positioning, power management and equipment monitoring. Structural support stools and foundations were added for the future installation of topsides processing modules, a turret, flare tower, communications equipment, control facilities and other miscellaneous equipment. The ship’s systems were modified to provide services to topsides processing equipment, as well as hydraulic systems for the CPP, thrusters, cargo valve control and fire pumps. A new main deck central pipe rack was fabricated and piping was installed to support topsides processing equipment. The ship‘s living quarters were also upgraded to accommodate more than 65 persons. Mechanical completion, pre-commissioning, commissioning, testing and sea trials of the converted vessel were also carried out.