Vigor Industrial introduces its new Offshore Patrol Cutter with Ulstein X-BOW

: Posted On Thursday, 20 September 2012 11:28

Naval Defense Industry News - USA

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.

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. The Ulstein X-BOW is an inverted bow designed by Ulstein Group to improve handling in rough sea, and to lower fuel consumption by causing less hydrodynamic drag.

(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.