FORCE Technology has recently completed a comprehensive full mission bridge simulation for the Enbridge Gateway Pipelines project.

FORCE Technology became the winner of an international tender issued by Enbridge Gateway Pipelines Inc. The project’s objective was to confirm that Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC) can safely and efficiently navigate through the Douglas passage along the north west coast of British Columbia, Canada.

“Enbridge takes marine safety very seriously and chose FORCE Technology for this important work due to their experience and advanced technological expertise in marine simulations,” says Cynthia Hansen, Director Operations Services with Enbridge.

The studies are part of the Enbridge Gateway Pipelines project covering environmental, engineering and land field work in relation to the transportation of petroleum by pipeline between Alberta and Kitimat, British Columbia with related movements by sea.

Tug simulation provides maneuvering strategies

The study awarded to FORCE Technology included an initial fast-time simulation to identify all safety sensitive areas that were then further studied through real-time full mission simulations. For the latter, FORCE Technology’s advanced tug simulator system was used to provide accurate input to maneuvering strategies, and to confirm the best navigation option and contingencies along the proposed routes.

The tug simulation system was composed of four interactive simulators where tug masters operated advanced fully modeled tugs, while B.C. Coast Pilots operated the vessels.

The results of the study will be used to establish operational procedures, and as input to an extensive training program for B.C. Coast Pilots and tug masters, who will be involved in the operation in the future. The project is currently scheduled for completion in the 2012 to 2014 timeframe subject to the completion of satisfactory shipping agreements and subsequent regulatory approval.

Strong need for accuracy, predictability and reliability

“For operations in coastal areas, the need for accuracy, predictability and reliability is vital in order to ensure that the right decisions are made and the right strategies are chosen. With more than 45 years of experience and a constant strive to produce the most accurate models in combination with the development of a state-of-the-art full mission tug facility, we can provide a sound basis for each decision making process” says Peter Sorensen, FORCE Technology.

Last year FORCE Technology carried out a record breaking 35 port studies. “Ports and engineering companies are increasingly becoming aware of our capability to provide valid results based on sound engineering principles and extensive experience with maritime operations. Our staff has a unique cross-disciplinary composition. Naval architects, coastal engineers, programmers and experienced mariners have been working closely together for many years to provide valuable results”, continues Peter Sorensen.