Deme owned CSD Ambiorix calls Colombo for major layup and drydocking repairs

The Dredging International, Belgium owned Cutter Suction Dredger Ambiorix (GRT7973, LOA: 123.00 M, Beam: 27.00 M) called in for layup and drydock repairs during May-June. 

One of the biggest Cutter Suctions dredgers in the DEME fleet selected Colombo as the repair centre for her special survey requirements. 

Colombo has been successfully providing repair facilities to DEME and many other international dredger owners over the past three decades. The business had been secured as a result of the proven track record of Colombo Dockyard as a reliable shipyard which delivers quality repairs with focus on timely completion. DEME carried out a yard capacity / safety audit prior to arrival of the vessel in Colombo, on successful clearing of the audit the vessel was stemmed to Colombo. During this call the vessel was accommodated at South Repair pier, initially for afloat repairs and accommodated in Drydock No. 04 (125,000 DWT) which is ideally suited to handle the dredger.

The major repair scope during this call consisted of Cutter shield repairs; precession welding was carried out on the cutter shield base plate using wear resistant welding electrodes. Cutter ladder internal blasting and painting was carried out, while Cutter ladder internal brackets were renewed and cracks were repaired. Side wire tumbling sheave was overhauled and reconditioning, where precession required machining was carried out. Routine drydock related repairs were also attended during this call. 

The strategic geographical location of Colombo Dockyard, close to major dredging hot spots, places Colombo Dockyard as an ideal location for dredgers in the region. Colombo’s professional approach and speedy service was appreciated by the Owners/Managers, as the repair project was re-delivered on schedule meeting owner’s requirements. 

The project team was headed by Ship Manager Ajith Kariapperuma who was well supported by all production departments in redelivering this project.

The owner’s interests were looked after by DEME team headed by Stijn Vanderbeken, Technical Superintendent – Docking Team Leader, Gert Kleinlugtenbelt, Superintendent, Ate van der Veen, Tech Superintendent, Adrien Cole, Safety Officer and Duane Lightfoot, TD Administrator. The repairs were carried out meeting the BUREAU VERITAS class society requirements. M/s.GAC Shipping Ltd. handled the local husbanding work smoothly.