RINA's Logmarin Converts VLCC
Vale uses Logmarin to develop the world’s largest floating bulk terminal.
Genoa-based Logmarin Advisors, part of the RINA Group, has enabled Brazil’s Vale SA to convert the Ore Fabrica (the former VLCC Front Duchess) into the world’s largest transhipment vessel. It will shortly come into operation at a site in Subic Bay, the Philippines, where it will operate as a platform for the transhipment of iron ore cargoes from Vale’s 400,000 dwt valemax ore carriers into capesize vessels for on carriage to markets in Asia.
Logmarin assisted Vale by devising and supervising the detailed design of the conversion and by procurement assistance, selection of the Ore Fabrica terminal management, and developing operation and safety procedures, Hazard and Operability analysis, transhipment site identification and permits. Support includes assistance during commissioning and personnel training.
The new cargo handling plant, the only one of its kind, consists of five Liebherr MPG cranes and a sophisticated conveyor belt/loading system designed and built by Bedeschi of Padova. The cargo handling facility is certified by RINA. The conversion was carried out at the Jiangsu Xinrong Shipyard in China. A total of 4,643 tonnes of new plant and structure went into the conversion. The installation of 9,680 KW of power gives the vessel a 5,000 tonnes-per-hour capacity – sufficient to load a capesize vessel in 36 hours. From design to delivery, the entire conversion took 333 days to complete. The vessel is managed by MSI Ship Management Pte Ltd of Singapore.