A contract worth NOK 52 million covering automated handling equipment has been awarded to ODIM by Zhejiang Shipbuilding (Sinopacific Group) in China.

The delivery comprises four automated ODIM LARS launch and recovery systems for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and two ODIM ABAS deck cranes. The handling equipment is due for delivery in 2009, and will be installed on the two IMR-vessels (inspection, maintenance and repair) being built for Neptune Offshore, Fosnavåg, Norway.

ODIM's Launch And Recovery System (ODIM LARS) is an established industry standard onboard new subsea vessels. The Launch And Recovery Systems will handle remotely-operated vehicles being used in water depths down to 4 000 metres. "Every extra day an ROV is in operation boosts earnings for our clients. Our solutions have been developed to enhance the operational efficiency of our customers. The active heave compensation on the ODIM LARS compensates for vessel motions created by waves, and by that extends the operational weather window and boosts safety," says vice president Jon Olav Kopperstad, ODIM.

"The subsea and deepwater market is growing fast, with a large potential for construction and installation work both in the short term and in a longer perspective. Acquiring former ABAS Crane (now ODIM ABAS) has been an important element in continuing to develop this market. ODIM ABAS' expertise, capacity and product portfolio complement the ODIM group in an excellent way," says Kjetil Leine, ODIM's chief operating officer.

Tags: ODIM, Sinopacific Group