Baku Shipyard is breaking new ground with the construction of its first Damen Cutter Suction Dredger (CSD) 650. This significant development underscores Azerbaijan’s growing shipbuilding capabilities and supports the expanding operations of the Port of Baku.
Damen CSD 650: A Milestone for Baku Shipyard
Baku Shipyard is set to deliver its first cutter suction dredger, the Damen CSD 650, later this year. The dredger will play a crucial role at the Port of Baku, a major transportation hub strategically located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea.
While the shipyard has a robust history of constructing various vessels, this project marks its debut in building a cutter suction dredger. The facility has undertaken all steelwork in line with Damen’s detailed design, leveraging a complete materials package provided by Damen, including essential components like the dredge pump and operating cabin.
Powerful Design for Efficient Dredging Operations
The Damen CSD 650 is engineered for stationary dredging at depths between -3 meters and -18 meters. Key specifications include:
- Cutter Power: 700 kW
- Dredge Pump Power: 1,825 kW
- Swing Width: 63 meters
These features combine to deliver exceptional performance and efficiency in dredging operations, ensuring the vessel meets the demanding requirements of the Port of Baku.
Collaboration Between Damen and Baku Shipyard
Alexander Shamray, Damen’s Sales Manager, praised the partnership with Baku Shipyard, stating:
“We are very pleased to work with Baku Shipyard. The professionalism of their team is evident in the exceptional quality of work. This project, the yard’s first CSD, is progressing smoothly and showcases their expertise.”
This collaboration not only highlights Damen’s design and engineering prowess but also emphasizes Baku Shipyard’s capability to deliver high-quality vessels.
Supporting Port of Baku’s Expanding Operations
The CSD 650, named Engineer Soltan Kazimov, will focus on maintenance dredging at the Port of Baku. This is a critical task, especially as the Caspian Sea’s water levels have dropped significantly over the past five years.
The dredger’s work is essential to ensure that the port’s expanded berths remain accessible for increasing maritime traffic. With the Port of Baku continuing to grow as a vital trade hub, the addition of this dredger is a timely and strategic development.
Why the Damen CSD 650 Matters for Azerbaijan
This project signifies a leap forward for Azerbaijan’s shipbuilding sector. By constructing its first cutter suction dredger, Baku Shipyard demonstrates its capability to handle complex projects while meeting international standards.
Additionally, the Damen CSD 650 reinforces the Port of Baku’s position as a critical logistics hub, ensuring uninterrupted operations despite environmental challenges and rising shipping demands.
Conclusion
The first Damen Cutter Suction Dredger 650 built in Azerbaijan is not only a milestone for Baku Shipyard but also a testament to the growing capabilities of the country’s maritime infrastructure. As the Port of Baku continues to expand, this state-of-the-art dredger will play an integral role in maintaining efficient operations and supporting regional trade.