What is dynamic positioning?
It’s basically a system that keeps a vessel in position. If you’ve ever wondered how oil rigs never wander off, lost in sea, or how they stay in course, that’s because of dynamic positioning systems at work.
Why DP systems?
As more and more oil drilling companies moved into deeper waters, previous ways of anchoring vessels and oil rigs became much more inefficient and impractical. Instead, there was rising demand for systems that would ensure improved operational efficiency, rendered at low-cost. That’s just one of the many advantages DP systems brought to the table.
Other benefits?
Aside from the fact that these technologies work, dynamic positioning systems provide offshore companies with a way to lower their costs. The technology is much more affordable, allowing organizations to achieve greater control over their budget and costs. The efficiency and accuracy of these technologies also mean faster and quicker operational times. All of which translate to better ROI.
How does it work?
DP systems come with a control panel. This registers changes in wind and waves, sending signals back to the propeller to keep it in place or maintain its course. DP might involve being locked into a fixed point or single position. Another one might mean being close or relative to a moving ship or underwater device to keep the rig or vessel moving in the right direction.
What kind of vessels use DP systems?
These systems are a common sight in research ships as well as drilling vessels, says Marine Insight. After all, both venture far out into the sea. These ships or rigs are typically found in deep waters where wind and wave conditions change quite a lot. Changing sea conditions negate the use of an anchor, which is why DP systems are much more suitable and provide better results and performance.
