Norshipco Repairs Navy Swath Ahead Of Schedule

Norshipco of Norfolk, Va., won and completed a repair contract for a U.S. Navy Swath (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) vessel USNS Able, T-AGOS 20.

The Swath hull type reportedly allows the vessel to accomplish its mission under the worst of conditions. The Able was awarded to Norshipco for 35 days beginning April 17. Norshipco experienced the first obstacle to the project from the start — a full drydock schedule. After careful consideration, the decision was made to drydock the Able in tandem with the USNS Kanawa.

Working closely with Tidewater Naval Architects, Norshipco developed an acceptable docking plan — and on April 20, the two vessels were drydocked as scheduled. The drydock package for the USNS Able included an overhaul of the sea valves, bowthruster inspections, stern seal renewals and hull coating repairs. Working as a well-coordinated team, all shops quickly completed the work items delineated in the project plan, allowing the vessel to undock three days ahead of schedule.

After successful completion of the first milestone, the next goal was to meet the vessel's dock trials scheduled to May 19. To achieve this, Norshipco would have to make extensive repairs to the lifeboat davits, 17 main deck scuttles and two ventilation systems. Again, the shops pulled together and completed the repairs ahead of schedule, allowing dock trials to be accomplished on May 19, and allowing the vessel's departure from Norshipco two days early. For more information on Norshipco Circle 52 on Reader Service Card