ABS awarded approval in principle (AIP) for Hyundai Heavy Industries’ (HHI) next-generation HD12000 heavy duty, wide beam drillship design. The drillship, which can accommodate a 20,000-psi blowout preventer system, has been designed in full compliance with the ABS Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems (CDS Guide) and other applicable ABS Rules and industry standards.
The HD12000 drillship will be capable of operating in 3658m water depth with a drilling depth to 12,192m. Featuring an innovative hull form, the design based on HHI’s proprietary technology includes enhanced dynamic positioning (DPS-3) capability through reduced hull resistance and thruster interaction, improved motion performance in maximum roll angle, and reduced wave resistance at field transit conditions.
As part of the basic approval work scope, ABS reviewed the concept design and associated configurations interfacing with the drilling equipment and systems that will be installed on board the drillship.
“This is an important milestone toward meeting the applicable classification requirements for validating the structural integrity of HHI’s latest generation of drillships,” says Mr. Yun-Sik Lee, HHI senior VP, initial design team. “Through the award of AIP, the design of HD12000 has been developed and verified with improved versatility and strength, increased deck space, benign motion characteristics and a reduced maintenance profile.”