IHC Merwede has been awarded the contract to design and construct a backhoe dredger for the Panama Canal Authority (ACP). In its bid, IHC Merwede was successful against a strong field of international competitors. The contract is worth US$43 million, and thanks to such projects, the development of the company’s order book is in line with turnover expectations.
Proven success
The backhoe dredger is not the first Panamanian project for IHC Merwede. In 2008, the company was awarded the design and build of a custom-built cutter suction dredger. With the successful delivery of this vessel, QUIBIAN 1, IHC Merwede has already proved to be a professional and reliable partner for ACP.
State-of-the-art equipment
The vessel will be constructed using the latest technological developments. The improved design results in extremely high stability, shorter cycle times and therefore higher production rates. The most important piece of equipment on the backhoe dredger is the hydraulic excavator. This will be powered by diesel engines and have the capacity to dredge to a depth of 19.5 metres underwater.
IHC Global Production
IHC Global Production, an IHC Merwede business unit that specialises in the design and construction of special vessels – such as backhoe dredgers – is responsible for the assignment. As expected, the vessel will be delivered in December 2012 and will initially work on the Panama Canal’s ongoing expansion programme.
Company profile IHC Merwede
IHC Merwede is focussed on the continuous development of design and construction activities for the specialist maritime sector. It is the global market leader for efficient dredging and mining vessels and equipment – with vast experience accumulated over decades – and a reliable supplier of custom-built ships and supplies for offshore construction.
IHC Merwede has in-house expertise for engineering and manufacturing innovative vessels and advanced equipment, as well as providing life-cycle support. Its integrated systematic approach has helped to develop optimum product performance and long-term business partnerships.
The company’s broad customer base includes dredging operators, oil and gas corporations, offshore contractors and government authorities.
IHC Merwede has over 3,000 employees based at various locations in The Netherlands, China, Croatia, France, India, the Middle East, Nigeria, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Technological innovation will remain the company’s underlying strength through its continuous investment in research and development. Moreover, it helps to safeguard a sustainable environment.
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Source: IHC Merwede, May 6, 2011