ABS has awarded approval in principle (AIP) for Hyundai Heavy Industries’ HD12000 heavy duty, wide beam drillship design.

The drillship, which can accommodate a 20,000-psi blowout preventer system, has been designed in full compliance with the ABS Guide for the Classification of Drilling Systems (CDS Guide) and other applicable ABS Rules and industry standards.

The HD12000 drillship will be capable of operating in 12,000 ft (3,658 m) water depth with a drilling depth to 40,000 ft (12,192 m). The design includes enhanced dynamic positioning (DPS-3) capability through reduced hull resistance and thruster interaction, improved motion performance in maximum roll angle, and reduced wave resistance at field transit conditions.

“Awarding AIP is an important step toward supporting the evolving needs of our clients as we collectively work to enhance safety and efficiency standards,” says ABS Executive Vice President, Energy Development Ken Richardson. “Addressing greater complexity in offshore drilling, the ABS CDS Guide provides a comprehensive approach to classing offshore drilling systems and their associated support systems and equipment.”

“This is an important milestone toward meeting the applicable classification requirements for validating the structural integrity of HHI’s latest generation of drillships,” says Yun-Sik Lee, Senior Vice President, Initial Design Team at HHI. “Through the award of AIP, the design of HD12000 has been developed and verified with improved versatility and strength, increased deck space, benign motion characteristics and a reduced maintenance profile.”

As part of the basic approval work scope, ABS reviewed the concept design and associated configurations interfacing with the drilling equipment and systems that will be installed on board the drillship.

“It is essential to verify new design concepts by an independent party and it is also desirable to share experiences throughout the collaboration process that can improve on the design early on,” adds Yun-Sik Lee. “AIP provides HHI and the future owner with the additional confidence to carry out this innovative design and improve drilling efficiencies.”