Dredger “Bucephalus” Commences Dredging Operations (Italy)

After successful commissioning and sea-trials in June, the backhoe dredger “Bucephalus” has recently commenced dredging works in Sardegna, Italy.

With the commissioning of this dredger, Italian based civil contractor SOMIT s.r.l. has further strengthened its position as a versatile maritime contractor along the coastal regions of Italy.

The “Bucephalus” is a Backhoe dredger, type Dredge-X150SP, developed and designed by HollandMT and FKAB.

The main particulars of the Dredge-X150SP are as follows:

• Length over all (Loa): 39.60 m

• Breadth moulded: 14.00 m

• Depth to main deck: 3.50 m

• Draught (loaded): 2.50 m

• Dredging depth (maximum): 20.00 m

• Excavator: Liebherr 984

• Propulsion engines: 2 x 447 kW

• Main generators: 2 x 80 kW

• Harbor generator: 30 kW

• Spud dimensions: 24 x 1.2 m

• Gross tonnage: 498 ton.

The hull is designed according to Bureau Veritas rules as a heavy welded construction with a double hull, bottom, sides and a reinforced main deck to carry stones, rocks, etc. In the aft of the vessel an engine room is situated, comprising the main machinery.

The propulsion plant consists of a double shaft arrangement and each is driven by means of a Cummins engine (KTA19M3). The 2 main generators provide power to the switchboard. Main power consumer is the hydraulic system which provides power for the spud hoisting/lowering system, mooring, anchor winches and bow thruster.

During dredging operations, the 3 spuds will allow the pontoon to lift approximately 0.5 m, providing a stable platform for dredging as well as for loading barges.

On the aftdeck, accommodation is provided for 8 persons, including a galley and messroom. On top of the accommodation a wheelhouse is positioned for transit voyage and as well as for monitoring dredge operations . The Bucephalus was built by “Poolmeccanica Lorenzon Spa” in Michele al Tagliamento, 60 km North-west of Venice.

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Press Release, September 2, 2013