Here, FFS measures marine muscles

Text: Sveinung W. Jensen, Tellus Kommunikasjon

- This is the 11th test we conduct this year. For boats engaged in anchor handling and "rig moves", it is necessary to check regularly whether the traction is still intact, says Tommy Lian, head of marine operations at FFS.

In December, the anchor handling vessel Maersk Mariner was to go to pers. One end of a wire was hooked to the boat, the other fastened in a bollard on land. Then the "tug of war" began.

- THE GOAL IS TO test how many tons the boat can pull, says Lian, who led the operation from his position on board FFS Amon.

The permanent test site is Kjeholmen in Stolsfjorden outside Flekkefjord.

- Here we have a bollard that is used for such operations. The place is ideal, as the fjord is without the influence of tides, is little exposed to wind and current and is over 200 meters deep. In addition, the wire can be stretched up to 1500 meters straight out, says Lian, and adds:

- WE DARE TO CLAIM that this is Europe's best location for bollard pull testing.

Traction testing has become an important part of FFS's service portfolio.

- We are beginning to gain good experience of carrying out such operations. The crew is well drilled, and we have all the equipment needed, says Lian.

EQUIPMENT AND LOCATION is approved by DNV for tests up to 400 tonnes.

Each test takes between 10 and 15 minutes. While some boats settle for one test, others need up to ten moves before they are finished.