Metalkol completes technical acceptance of customised

Damen Dredging yard in the Netherlands recently witnessed the completion of technical acceptance for a customized Cutter Suction Dredger (CSD) 500 by Metalkol. Following a thorough series of inspections and evaluations, the tailor-made dredger was granted the green light for delivery. This vessel is set to be transported to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where it will play a pivotal role in an ongoing mining operation.

Prior to the acceptance, the standard CSD500 was meticulously adapted to cater to the project's unique requirements. The modifications incorporated various Damen options, such as anchor booms for anchor handling, a spud carriage pontoon to expand the dredger's swing width, an extended depth capability of up to -16 meters, a vacuum relief valve, a discharge valve, and a suite of dredging instrumentation.

According to Frederick Vandepitte, Damen Regional Director, the client demanded a cutting-edge dredger suitable for a remote location with minimal downtime. Through numerous productive discussions, Damen and Metalkol successfully collaborated to design a customized CSD that satisfied all operational demands. Vandepitte expressed satisfaction over the rapid customization process, which was completed within a fortnight of the order placement.

Upon successful acceptance, the CSD500 will undergo disassembly into modular components. This strategic move is aligned with Damen's modular dredger concept, ensuring efficient transportation by road and water to its destination, along with seamless assembly at the mining site in Africa.