Trelleborg
Overview
When we were approached to provide a logistics solution for delivering 132 subsea buoyancy modules for the Cyprus Waterline Project, we were more than happy to assist. The scale and importance of the project was soon apparent.
Our remit was to find a cost-effective shipping method, whilst adhering to the client’s manufacturing schedule and specific cargo handling needs. The modules will play a key role in a unique and pioneering engineering project, building a subsea pipeline from Southern Turkey to Northern Cyprus, funded by the Turkish government.
The Turkish government has committed to finishing the pipeline, which will provide 75 million cubic metres of fresh water for drinking and irrigation, in a timely manner, so all contractors involved in the project had to adhere to strict deadlines.
Although these products are designed to withstand the worst subsea conditions, on land and in handling they can be susceptible to damage and it was imperative they arrived in perfect condition. We worked closely with our suppliers at every stage to ensure the cargo was handled carefully and delivered on time and on budget.
Delivery
Each module was 7 metres long by 3 metres in diameter and weighed 15 tonnes, equating to 8,316 cubic metres and almost 2,000 tonnes in total. The units were to be moved from the client’s North West UK manufacturing facility to the project assembly point at Tasucu port, Southern Turkey.
After carefully assessing the modules and the project requirements, we planned an efficient and cost-effective break bulk service direct from the Port of Hull to the project assembly area at Tasucu port. This is where the modules would be loaded on to the offshore installation vessel.
We were also able to arrange for the modules to be securely stored at the Port of Hull prior to vessel loading, allowing us to arrange daily collections from the client’s factory using low-loader vehicles. This alleviated any storage problems at the factory and enabled us to ship all the cargo in only two sailings, which minimised the handling of the modules.
Our thoughts
Results
Throughout the loading and discharge of each vessel, we had a dedicated project manager on hand to oversee both the port and vessel operations.
Acting as the liaison between the customer, vessel crew and port stevedores to solve any issues that might have occurred, it’s all part of our hands-on approach to project management. From the moment the cargo was collected from the customer’s factory, we monitored every stage of the shipment and provided daily updates to all parties.
The modules were not only delivered on time, but by using our trusted supplier network, we were able to deliver the project at a cost below our client’s original budget. We thrive on challenges, love building close partnerships with our clients and partners, and pride ourselves on delivering a well-managed project safely, so this one was right up our street.
