Northumberland-based OSBIT Power has secured additional facilities at the Port of Blyth to deliver its largest project yet to Helix Energy Solutions, a world leading company in well intervention projects.
In an agreement with the Port, the Riding Mill company will utilise its facilities on a 12 month basis to manufacture three sets of Intervention Tension Frames (ITFs). The systems, each weighing 100 tonnes and standing at over 20 metres high, will be delivered by a team of eight engineers and technicians based at the port.
The ITFs will each be installed on one of three new vessels. The systems provide a safer working environment from which coiled tubing and wire line operations can be conducted. Each ITF has three platform levels for personnel to safely and efficiently conduct operations using dedicated skidding systems.
Once complete, OSBIT will utilise Port of Blyth’s load out quay facilities to deliver the three systems across the world. The first two will be delivered to Germany for installation on the Siem Helix 1 and 2 vessels, while the third unit will be shipped to Jurong shipyard in Singapore where Helix’s Q7000 vessel is being constructed.
Dr Tony Trapp, Executive Chairman of OSBIT Power, said: “The size and scope of this prestigious project has required us to increase our manufacturing facilities. The Port of Blyth is an ideal fit for this project as the facilities available and its excellent quayside operations will support our efficient and timely production programme.”
Alan Todd, Port Director at Port of Blyth, said: “We are delighted to welcome OSBIT Power to the port, which further emphasises Blyth’s position as an important hub for energy sector activity. This region has an innovative and diverse supply chain with considerable expertise serving the offshore industries, which can utilise our facilities to support projects around the world.”