How many people and how much equipment can be transferred?
The OWAS system is designed to transport either 4 people in one lift, or 3 people and 110kg of spares and tools. The system minimises the risk of performing such operations by using one short and safe activity. Modular packages will be offered in configurations for 1MT, 2MT, 4MT and possibly 8MT.
Is OWAS expensive?
No, assuming all turbines need a means of lifting critical spare parts, we expect OWAS will require very modest additional capital cost to provide for year round capability for both personnel and equipment access needs.
How many transfer devices will I need?
This depends on the size and maintenance requirements for the offshore wind farm. We anticipate that each maintenance crew will have access to one transfer device and that this would remain with each crew for each workday.
Is this OWAS system something that has to be fixed from day one?
No, a modular system is one that can be exchanged at any time. Where access is not foreseen as a high requirement (for example after a major service overhaul) OWAS modules may be utilised elsewhere.
Are remote control lifting operations possible?
Yes, Reflex Marine has engineered remote access systems for use on normally unmanned oil and gas platforms where security of access is a key issue. Remote control systems are well proven.
How do you inspect the lifting equipment before use?
Normally a winch is checked visually and the functions are tested prior to use. Both these aspects can be completed in OWAS with procedural and software control. On site load tests and dummy runs are additional procedures that would ensure safe use.
What sort of service boat is needed?
The lifting operation is quick. It is difficult to generalise about the specific vessel requirements but we do not expect the requirement for dynamic positioning systems. A highly manoeuvrable catamaran with bow thrusters and clear deck space of approximately 5m diameter provides an indication of what we believe will prove to be a suitable vessel.
What sort of lifting device is needed?
The lifting device will be a specialist design to meet the needs of the application, the vessel and the transfer device. The lifting device is engineered and optimised on weight, functional capability and cost.
Don't you need complex motion compensating devices, adding to complexity?
No, the OWAS system relies on the capsule design to accommodate the relative motions between the vessel and wind turbine. The TORO capsule is specifically designed and rigorously tested to withstand impacts of up to 2m/s. The capsule provides this protection to the passenger and therefore the transfer is completed using simple and field proven equipment.
What sort of foundation design is needed?
The OWAS system is suitable for any foundation type, gravity, jacket, tripod or monopole. Interfacing the load bearing structures is expected to be simple.
Is the OWAS System Certified?
The Reflex Marine transfer capsules are certified and approved for man-riding use. The OWAS system is not yet certified and approved for use. Reflex Marine are currently establishing the system prototype and we foresee no significant barriers to establishing a fully certified system.
Any further questions?
Please contact us and we will be happy to discuss any further questions.
