Baku Shipyard’s First Cutter Suction Dredger
Baku Shipyard is making significant strides in maritime construction with the development of its first Damen Cutter Suction Dredger (CSD) 650. This project marks a milestone for Azerbaijan, as it is the first cutter suction dredger to be built in the country. The dredger is set to be completed later this year and will be operated by the Port of Baku, a vital transport hub located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. The collaboration between Baku Shipyard and Damen Shipyards Group has been fruitful, showcasing the capabilities of local shipbuilding while enhancing the operational efficiency of the port.
Innovative Design and Construction
The construction of the CSD 650 is a testament to the advanced engineering and design capabilities of Damen Shipyards Group. The design and materials package for the dredger have been delivered to Baku Shipyard, which is responsible for all steel work according to Damen’s specifications. This includes the assembly of critical components such as the dredge pump and the operating cabin. The materials package was substantial, filling eleven trailers and two 40-foot containers, indicating the complexity and scale of the project.
The CSD 650 is designed for stationary dredging operations, capable of reaching depths between -3 meters and -18 meters. It boasts a powerful cutter with 700 kW and a dredge pump with an impressive 1,825 kW. The dredger’s 63-meter swing width enhances its efficiency, making it well-suited for the demanding tasks it will undertake. Alexander Shamray, Damen Sales Manager, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, highlighting the professionalism and quality of work demonstrated by the Baku Shipyard team. The successful progress of this project reflects the yard’s commitment to excellence, especially as it embarks on building its first dredger.
Addressing Port Challenges and Future Prospects
The newly constructed dredger, named Engineer Soltan Kazimov, will play a crucial role in maintaining the Port of Baku. Over the past five years, the water level in the Caspian Sea has significantly decreased, creating challenges for port operations. The dredger will perform maintenance dredging duties to ensure that various berths remain accessible and can accommodate the increasing traffic. This is particularly important as the port has undergone recent expansions to enhance its capacity.
Strategically located, the Port of Baku has evolved into a regional logistics center. It connects the east-west transport corridor linking China to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, while also facilitating north-south routes towards the Persian Gulf. The operational efficiency provided by the new dredger will be vital in supporting the port’s growth and ensuring that it continues to serve as a key hub for maritime trade in the region. As the dredger nears completion, the anticipation for its commissioning and delivery to the Port of Baku grows, promising a new era of enhanced operational capabilities for Azerbaijan’s maritime sector.
Source: AJOT.COM
