General – Thialf
Bakker Sliedrecht has been awarded a contract by Heerema Marine Contractors for the replacement of the high-voltage switchboards (MSB1) on board the SSHV Thialf.
The existing HV panels have been in operation for over 40 years, and several critical components, including the circuit breakers, are expected to become obsolete in the near future.
As part of Heerema’s Lifetime Extension Programme, aimed at keeping the Thialf operational for many years to come, replacement of the MSB1 main switchboard is essential.
Bakker’s scope includes the engineering and construction of 49 high-voltage panels, divided over four sections. The panels will be engineered to our own design standards and built and tested in our own workshop, using ABB ZS1 HV cubicles.
As the new panels differ in layout and footprint from the existing switchboards, this upgrade goes beyond a like-for-like replacement. The existing cabling on board will also be modified, making this a technically complex project that requires thorough preparation.
In the coming months, an intensive engineering and alignment phase will commence. Close collaboration with the client and our role as system integrator will be key to ensuring a well-controlled and efficient execution during the on-board conversion.
