The theme of innovation is maintained by the multi-functional Abul, which can undertake a range of maintenance and capital dredging works for KPT, including the deepening of navigational channels and the creation of new land for industry as Karachi port expands. Abul’s first project next year will be to deepen Karachi Port’s approach channel from its current depth of 11.5m to 13.5m, which will allow deeper draft vessels to be accommodated at all tides.

Abul’s size and capacity are well matched to the physical circumstances of its working environment. The 104.4m LOA twin screw vessel features twin suction pipes with an internal diameter of 700mm which allow the vessel to dredge to depths of 20m. To optimise production in differing conditions, two types of draghead are available, including IHC’s patented ‘Wild Dragon’ model. A maximum loading capacity of 8,400 tons results in a draft of only 7.65m.

The aft mounted dredge pumps are each directly driven by one of the main diesel engines when dredging. To boost discharge power when the vessel is self emptying to shore via floating pipeline or rainbowing, the two dredge pumps can be operated in series.