Hamworthy KSE high-pressure riser tensioning compressors have been selected for the Ocean Baroness rig, currently being refurbished for Diamond Offshore. The Victory Class semisubmersible Ocean Baroness was built in 1973 and is being fitted with new riser tensioning as part of an upgrade at Singapore’s Keppel Fels yard, due for completion in February 2002.

Updated 18 months ago, when they were brought into production in the UK, standard versions of the Hamworthy KSE 4SW80 Mark 2 compressor are now available ex-stock from Poole. The lightweight, compact 4SW80 produces 75cfm and is engineered specifically for offshore environments worldwide. A four-stage compressor is combined with an air dryer and filtration package with a contained cooling system. The combination produces dry, filtered, high-pressure air or gas suitable for riser tensioning and other offshore applications. The 4SW80 is tested and delivered fully assembled ready for installation. The unit is mounted with all ancillaries on a single skid for ease of installation and servicing.

There are now over 100 Hamworthy KSE riser tensioning compressors in service, not only on drill rigs but also in other heave compensation applications such as on suction hopper dredgers, and rig- and barge-mounted cranes.