KEPCO develops vessel that helps quickly install offshore wind power platforms

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) launched a specially-designed vessel dubbed KMMB 1500 that can lift and transport structures weighing up to 1,500 tons and 140 meters high and help quickly install offshore wind power platforms.

The state power company said that the platform's two parts, an upper deck turbine, and an underwater support structure, can be assembled in a port for transportation by the KMMB 1500.

KMMB 1500 could shorten the installation period of an offshore wind power platform by 80 days and can also install a 5MW offshore wind generator in 10 days, according to KEPCO.

KEPCO CEO Chung Seung-il described the KMMB 1500 as "a feat" that even Europe has not achieved."

KEPCO also developed a method of discharging water inside the pile using a suction pump and utilizing the pressure difference to put the foundation into the ground.

The new method takes only 10 to 13 hours to insert the substructure and eliminated the need for cement hardening.

Meanwhile, the current construction method requires rock excavation and cement injection.

KEPCO's new technology and equipment will be used for constructing big offshore wind farms in South Korea and multi-purpose marine works, including the installation and dismantling of weather towers and small offshore wind power structures.