Vigor
Industrial introduces its new Offshore Patrol Cutter with Ulstein X-BOW
In
response to the U.S. Coast Guard's demanding Offshore Patrol Cutter
requirements, Vigor Industrial looked beyond the conventional. With
the Ulstein X-BOW®, the Vigor OPC delivers unmatched seakeeping
and endurance.
Vigor OPC features the innovative Ulstein X-BOW® design. The X-BOW®
made its debut in 2006, and more than 40 vessels are now in-service
worldwide. On a daily basis, they prove the design’s reliability
and superior seakeeping in real-world operations, under the most difficult
conditions.
Compared to bulbous bows, the Ulstein X-BOW ® delivers:
• Lower pitch and heave accelerations
• Higher transit speeds in both calm waters and heavy seas
• Reduced slamming, vibration, spray and noise
These qualities make Vigor OPC more capable of performing when most
needed. In high seas it is faster and more comfortable for the crew
and more stable for helicopter and small boat operations.
(Video:
Vigor Industrial)
Superior Seakeeping
VIGOR OPC's seakeeping improves offshore mission effectiveness through
higher sustained speed, expanded operating envelopes for boats and helicopters,
greater endurance and reduced crew fatigue.
» Seakeeping performance of the patented Ulstein X-Bow is quantified
through extensive model tests and validated in the actual performance
of nearly 40 offshore vessels.
» Higher transit speeds in moderate to heavy seas compared to
conventional bulbous bows (19% faster) puts VIGOR OPC on the scene sooner.
» Objective-level endurance maximizes time on scene.
» Lower pitch and heave accelerations due to the X-Bow expand
operability.
» Reduced roll due to 54 foot beam (same as National Security
Cutters) further expands operability.
» Reduced slamming, vibration and noise maximize crew effectiveness
and reduce structural fatigue.
(Picture:
Vigor Industrial)
An Innovative And Affordable Solution
VIGOR OPC is inherently producible and affordable.
» Simple hull curvature throughout reduces fabrication cost.
» At 328 feet, VIGOR OPC minimizes the need for shore infrastructure
improvements.
» Larger internal volume eases constructions and maintenance.
» All accommodations are above the main deck.
» Upgrading a commercial vessel design to meet the Coast Guard's
technical requirements is the affordable alternative to a conventional
corvette or frigate.
(Picture:
Vigor Industrial)
Reduced Operational And Lifecycle Costs
VIGOR OPC's lower lifecycle cost is attained through early design decisions
that target the largest operating cost drivers.
» Hull for provides for 7-16% reduced fuel consumption compared
to conventional bulbous bow.
» Maintenance intensive weather decks are minimized and far removed
from corrosive seawater.
» Davits and deck equipment are protected from the weather for
reduced maintenance.
