Memorial University Program to Study Marine Offshore Structures

Houston, TX -The Research & Development Corporation of Newfoundland and Labrador (RDC) and ABS of Texas have announced a combined $600,000 investment for the ABS Harsh Environment Technology Center and associated research program. This investment will fund research on how ship and offshore structures can be improved to work more effectively in volatile ocean conditions, such as the North Atlantic.
 
“This partnership further demonstrates Newfoundland and Labrador as a recognized leader on the international stage when it comes to research and development of technologies for ships and offshore structures operating in harsh environments,” said Keith Hutchings, Minister Responsible for the RDC. “Worldwide, there is an industry need for this type of research and development. Our geography, academic environment and strong economy make Newfoundland and Labrador the best place for international companies to learn about operating in cold ocean environments.”
 
The research program within the ABS Harsh Environment Technology Center will focus on themes such as dynamic positioning in ice; produced water management; ballast water management; corrosion protection of ships and platforms; and fire and explosion assessment.
 
Founded in 1862, ABS is a leading non-governmental international classification society devoted to promoting the security of life, property and the marine environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine-related facilities.
 
“ABS collaborated with Memorial University of Newfoundland and RDC to establish the ABS Harsh Environment Technology Center,” said Todd Grove, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. “ABS and Memorial University have developed a strong working relationship during the last few years, while producing important research in this field. With this additional support, we will build on our previous efforts and continue to assist the marine and offshore industry in tackling the challenges they face in harsh and arctic environments.”