When millions of dollars are riding on the outcome of a single procedure, getting it right the first time is critical. Sandwell's ballast control simulator, developed for the Molikpaq deployment off Sakhalin Island, was a key element in the success of just such a procedure.
The Sandwell-designed Molikpaq was originally deployed in the Beaufort Sea. For its new location in the deeper waters off Sakhalin Island, a doughnut-shaped steel base was attached to the bottom. This "Spacer," 110 meters across and 15 meters deep, was submerged and then raised under the Molikpaq.
The mating of these massive structures could not be analyzed with sufficient accuracy using existing naval architecture programs. Sandwell developed a program to evaluate the proposed mating procedures. The model featured advanced animation and graphics, yet was easily operated by non-technical personnel. It indicated where additional valves were needed for fine control and verified stability at all stages of the submergence and refloatation procedures.
Naval architects used the model to practice the mating process, and during these exercises developed a much simpler procedure. The actual mating was done with remarkable ease, and the two structures behaved exactly as the simulation model had predicted. Mating was achieved to an accuracy of 5 millimeters. The client project manager described the model as "one of the most important tools that the Mating Team had at its disposal."
