Ampelmann

Offshore Access Trial with Total EP NL

For TOTAL EP (NL), the operation of the Ampelmann system was tested by landing onto the L7-A platform of Total on the Dutch Continental Shelf. The Ampelmann was installed on the DP-1 vessel Base Express within one day, again showing that installation of the Ampelmann system is done with only very little preparation of the vessel. The Base Express is a 67 meter DP1 vessel and the Ampelmann system was installed at the aft of the ship.

The weather was quite calm (max 4 Bft, max swell 1.5 mtr) and a number of landings were performed with different headings and on different balconies. The tests were evaluated as very promising as "the technology of the system was considered to be very attractive for offshore operation". All systems functioned to expectations. Landing on and staying connected to tubular members of the lower balcony proved to work properly. A maximum period of 35 minutes connection was recorded; a new record.

Total also addressed a couple of improvements, of which the most important one was the request of a longer and faster gangway and a display on the bridge showing the remaining distance to the platform. The new Ampelmann system has a gangway with an operational range of 20 meters and will move faster. Also the ability to monitior the remaining distance to the platform has been embedded in the new system. Total and Ampelmann intend to carry out a second test with this new generation Ampelmann this year.

Ampelmann moving along while the vessel is slowly drifting