The VB-1000 cuts into the wreck of the Golden Ray. The operation is surrounded by a one mile lengthy Environmental Protection Barrier (EPB). [St. Simons Sound Incident Response photo]
Dismantling and removing of the wreck of the capsized automotive service Golden Ray from St. Simons Sound, Ga., continues to show a difficult activity.
As we reported earlier (see story), the heavy elevate vessel VB-10000 started reducing operations of the bow part of the wreck, utilizing some 400 ft of chain to noticed by way of the hull at roughly 11:30 a.m. on Friday. Then, some 25 hours into the lower, one of many 1.5 foot lengthy hyperlinks within the reducing chain broke.
There had been no accidents or harm to the VB-10000. Responders retrieved the chain and repaired the damaged hyperlink whereas additionally inspecting the chain for any extra fatigue. They resumed reducing operations thereafter.
“The cutting process was carefully engineered and modeled, but it remains a highly complex operation,” mentioned Deputy Incident Commander Tom Wiker of Gallagher Marine Systems .”This is the primary of seven cuts. During every lower we’ll proceed fine-tuning our reducing parameters, together with pace and rigidity of the chain, to enhance its effectivity. Though the lower is taking longer than anticipated, we’re gaining invaluable data that can information the remainder of this operation.”
Unified Command is carefully monitoring approaching inclement climate and can implement acceptable plans primarily based on the altering forecast.
The 150-yard security zone across the Environmental Protection Barrier has been elevated to 200 yards for leisure vessels. The UC advises mariners to avoid the perimeter. Officials prohibit any unauthorized utilization of drones (unmanned aerial automobiles) across the wrecksite. Responders will report any sightings of drones and drone operators to native authorities.
