The twin-hull heavy elevate vessel VB-10,000 shall be used for reducing and lifting operations [Photo by U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer John D. Miller]
The St. Simons Sound Incident Unified Command engaged on the salvage of the capsized automotive provider Golden Ray says that reducing and lifting operations on the wreck shall be delayed for a number of weeks.
The delay has been attributable to the necessity for engineers to switch the mooring system for the the twin-gantry, twin-barge heavy elevate catamaran VB-10,000 on the wreck-site.
Engineers with the response designed an array of 5 anchors that accounted for a number of difficult variables similar to excessive currents within the sound, restrictions to motion as a result of Environmental Protection Barrier (EPB) and proximity to the transport channel. However, after efficiently putting in and pull-testing 4 anchors, the remaining anchor on the most difficult mooring website within the system didn’t meet its pull-test necessities.
The Unified Command says it’s reviewing a number of choices for a revised anchor system and can decide that ensures the security of responders and the general public, safeguards the encompassing atmosphere in addition to offering for the continuation of commerce within the port.
The Golden Ray wreck stays secure and is monitored repeatedly by sensors on the wreck-site and through hydrographic surveys across the EPB. Approximately 400 personnel and 50 on-water property together with tugs, barges and response vessels proceed preparations to chop and elevate the wreck. An environmental unit conducts shoreline assessments all through the week and air pollution response groups proceed to watch the wreck website. No emergent environmental impacts have been noticed.
