IMCA Report Covers Mini RadaScan System for DP Ops

Reliable and robust methods of positioning are required for safe vessel operations at offshore installations. The development of dynamic positioning (DP) systems has been gradual over the past 50 years and today, various manufacturers’ systems are available around the world. IMCA has published a report, IMCA M 229 ‘Mini RadaScan microwave radar sensor for dynamic positioning operations’ to provide an overview of the Mini RadaScan system.

“Every measurement technology is bound by limitations (i.e. physics) and external factors (e.g. signal obstruction, solar activity, weather, sea conditions, range), which makes it difficult for one technology to cover all applications and uninterrupted service,” explains IMCA’s Technical Director, Richard Benzie. “Hence the growth in the use of DP has been accompanied by the development of international recognized rules, standards and guidelines against which DP vessels are designed, constructed and operated.

“The growth and development of DP systems has stimulated the development of DP position measurement sensors which have become more sophisticated as technology has allowed. Within the relative position measurement equipment range the DP market is familiar with the use of laser and microwave sensors (the topic of various standalone IMCA publications). Our newly published document describes the Mini RadaScan product, which is part of the range of microwave relative positioning systems offered by Guidance Marine.

“A major part of the document has been prepared by Guidance Marine Ltd, the manufacturers of the system,” he adds. “It covers the components of the system, sensor design, operation including advantages and disadvantages, servicing and maintenance applications and technical specifications.”

Other relevant DP publications include: 

•IMO MSC Circ. 645 – Guidelines for vessels with dynamic positioning systems

•IMCA M 103 – Guidelines for the design and operation of dynamically positioned vessels

•182 MSF – International guidelines for the safe operation of dynamically positioned offshore supply vessels

•IMCA M 170 – A review of marine laser positioning systems – Part 1: MK IV Fanbeam and Part 2: CyScan

•IMCA M 174 – A review of the Artemis Mark V positioning system

•IMCA M 209 – RadaScan microwave radar sensor for dynamic positioning operations

•IMCA M 224 – Guidance on RADius relative positioning system

The new publication is available on the IMCA website for free download for members and nonmembers alike.