Derrick On Ship: Guide to Parts,Working & Maintenance of Derricks

Working on offshore structures, such as ships and oil rigs, can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Among the various roles and responsibilities onboard, operating a derrick is a critical task. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about working with a Derrick On Ship. From its functions and components to safety protocols and maintenance, this article will provide valuable insights for both aspiring and experienced professionals in the maritime industry.

What is a Derrick On Ship?

Derrick On Ship: A Brief Overview

A Derrick On Ship is a towering structure used for lifting heavy loads and conducting drilling operations on offshore structures, such as ships, oil rigs, and platforms. It provides the necessary support and stability for various activities, including well drilling, equipment installation, and maintenance tasks. The Derrick is composed of multiple components that work together to ensure safe and efficient operations.

The Importance of a Derrick On Ship

The Derrick On Ship is a vital piece of equipment in the maritime industry. It enables the crew to handle heavy loads and perform essential operations, such as drilling, with precision and safety. Without a functional Derrick, the efficiency and productivity of offshore structures would be significantly hindered, making it an indispensable asset for any vessel or rig.

Components of a Derrick On Ship

A Derrick On Ship comprises several crucial components that contribute to its overall functionality. Understanding these components is essential for operating and maintaining the Derrick effectively.

Different Parts of Derrick on Ships

1. Derrick Boom

The Derrick Boom is the vertical section of the Derrick that provides structural support and height to the overall structure. It is typically made of steel or other sturdy materials to withstand the rigors of offshore operations. The Derrick Boom is responsible for holding the load and ensuring its stability during lifting and lowering operations. It is securely attached to the vessel or rig and extends vertically upward, allowing for greater reach and flexibility in handling various loads.

2. Crown Block

The Crown Block is an essential component of the Derrick On Ship. It is located at the top of the Derrick and serves as a pulley system for the drill line. The Crown Block consists of multiple sheaves or pulleys through which the drill line passes. This arrangement helps in redirecting the force applied to the drill line, enabling the lifting and lowering of heavy loads. The Crown Block’s design and construction ensure smooth movement of the drill line, minimizing friction and maximizing efficiency during operations.

3. Travelling Block

Working in conjunction with the Crown Block, the Travelling Block is another crucial component of the Derrick On Ship. It is suspended from the top of the Derrick and moves vertically along the Derrick Boom. The Travelling Block is responsible for supporting and guiding the drill line during lifting and lowering operations. It also carries the weight of the loads being lifted, ensuring their safe transportation. The Travelling Block’s movement is controlled by the hoisting system, allowing for precise positioning and control of the loads.

4. Drill Line

The Drill Line is a high-strength steel cable that runs through the Crown Block and Travelling Block. It serves as the primary means of lifting and lowering heavy loads during drilling operations. The Drill Line is wound around a winch drum, which is connected to the drawworks system on the ship or rig. As the winch drum rotates, it either spools in or pays out the Drill Line, enabling the lifting or lowering of loads. The Drill Line’s durability and tensile strength are crucial factors in ensuring safe and efficient operations.

5. Standpipe

The Standpipe is a vertical pipe connected to the base of the Derrick On Ship. It provides a conduit for the drilling mud or fluid used during drilling operations. The Standpipe is responsible for delivering the drilling mud from the mud pumps to the drill string, which consists of the drill bit, drill collar, and other drilling tools. It acts as a central point for the circulation of drilling fluid, which helps in cooling the drill bit, removing cuttings from the well, and maintaining pressure control during drilling operations.

6. Swivel

The Swivel is a pivotal component in the Derrick On Ship that allows the rotation of the drill string while the Derrick remains stationary. It is connected to the top of the Derrick and supports the weight of the drill string, allowing it to rotate freely. The Swivel is designed to withstand high loads and pressures while maintaining smooth rotational movement. It also provides a connection point for the mud hose, which facilitates the delivery of drilling mud from the Standpipe to the drill string.

The Functions of a Derrick On Ship

A Derrick On Ship serves several critical functions that are crucial for offshore operations. Let’s explore the primary functions of a Derrick in detail.

Lifting and Lowering Loads

One of the primary functions of a Derrick On Ship is to lift and lower heavy loads. Whether it’s equipment, materials, or other structures, the Derrick provides the necessary support and stability to handle substantial weights. The Crown Block, Travelling Block, and Drill Line work together to lift the loads from the vessel’s deck or rig floor and transport them to the desired location. The precise control and movement of the loads are essential to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Drilling Operations

Another significant function of a Derrick On Ship is to facilitate drilling operations. The Derrick provides the necessary infrastructure and support for drilling wells offshore. The drill string, consisting of the drill bit, drill collar, and other drilling tools, is connected to the Swivel and extends downward into the wellbore. The Derrick’s height allows for the drilling of deep and complex wells, reaching hydrocarbon reservoirs beneath the seabed.

During drilling, the Swivel enables the rotation of the drill string, allowing the drill bit to cut through the rock formations. The drilling mud, circulated through the Standpipe, enters the drill string and flows out through the drill bit. This mud serves multiple purposes, including cooling the drill bit, carrying the cuttings to the surface, and maintaining pressure control within the well. The Derrick On Ship provides the necessary stability and control to ensure precise drilling operations.

Maintenance and Repairs

Apart from lifting loads and drilling operations, the Derrick On Ship also plays a vital role in maintenance and repair activities. Offshore structures, including ships and rigs, require regular maintenance to ensure their safe and efficient operation. The Derrick provides access to various components of the vessel or rig, allowing maintenance crews to inspect, repair, or replace equipment.

Maintenance tasks on the Derrick itself include inspecting and lubricating moving parts, checking the integrity of cables and pulleys, and ensuring the overall structural integrity. Additionally, the Derrick may be used as a platform for performing maintenance on other equipment, such as cranes, winches, and drilling systems. The stability and height of the Derrick make it an ideal location for conducting maintenance and repairs on the ship or rig.

Precaution and Maintenance of derrick

1. All gears must be carefully examined before use and Keep SWL in mind
2. All wires and blocks to be checked for any defects
3. Before a derrick is raised or lowered, all persons on deck in the vicinity should be warned so that no person stands in, or is in danger from, bights of wire and other ropes. All necessary wires should be flaked out. 
4. When a single span derrick is being raised, lowered or adjusted, the hauling part of the topping lift or bull-wire (i.e. winch end whip) should be adequately secured to the drum end. 
5. The winch driver should raise or lower the derrick at a speed consistent with the safe handling of the guys. 
6. Before a derrick is raised, lowered or adjusted with a topping lift purchase, the hauling part of the span should be flaked out for its entire length in a safe manner. Someone should be available to assist the person controlling the wire on the drum and keeping the wire clear of turns and in making fast to the bitts or cleats. Where the hauling part of a topping lift purchase is led to a derrick span winch, the bull-wire should be handled in the same way. 
7. To fasten the derrick in its final position, the topping lift purchase should be secured to bitts or cleats by first putting on three complete turns followed by four crossing turns and finally securing the whole with a lashing to prevent the turns jumping off due to the wire’s natural springiness. 
8. When a derrick is lowered on a topping lift purchase, someone should be detailed for lifting and holding the pawl bar, ready to release it should the need arise; the pawl should be fully engaged before the topping lift purchase or bull-wire is released. The person employed on this duty should not attempt or be given any other task until this operation is complete; in no circumstances should the pawl bar be wedged or lashed up. 
9. A derrick with a topping winch, and particularly one that is self- powered, should not be topped hard against the mast, table or clamp in such a way that the initial heave required to free the pawl bar prior to lowering the derrick cannot be achieved without putting an undue strain on the topping lift purchase and its attachments.

Safety Protocols for Derrick Operations

Operating a Derrick On Ship involves inherent risks and hazards. Therefore, strict safety protocols and procedures must be followed to ensure the well-being of the crew and the successful completion of operations. Here are some essential safety measures associated with Derrick operations:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial when working on a Derrick On Ship. This includes hard hats, safety goggles, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe boots. PPE helps protect workers from falling objects, flying debris, noise, and other potential hazards.

Fall Protection Systems

Due to the height at which Derrick operations are conducted, fall protection systems are imperative. These may include safety harnesses, lifelines, and safety nets. All personnel working at elevated positions must be properly secured to prevent falls and minimize the risk of injuries.

Emergency Procedures

Having well-defined emergency procedures in place is vital on any offshore structure. In the event of an emergency, such as equipment failure, fire, or severe weather conditions, the crew should be well-trained on evacuation procedures and the use of emergency equipment, such as life jackets and lifeboats.

Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

Regular hazard identification and risk assessment are essential to identify potential risks and implement appropriate mitigation measures. This involves identifying hazards specific to Derrick operations, such as falling objects, cable entanglement, and high-pressure systems, and taking steps to minimize those risks.

Training and Certification

Operating a Derrick On Ship requires specialized skills and knowledge. It is essential for personnel to undergo thorough training and obtain relevant certifications before performing Derrick operations. This includes training on equipment operation, safety procedures, emergency response, and proper maintenance practices.

Operating a Derrick On Ship

Operating a Derrick On Ship requires skill, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. Let’s explore the key aspects of operating a Derrick effectively.

Preparing the Derrick for Operations

Before commencing any operations, it is crucial to ensure that the Derrick is properly prepared. This includes inspecting all components for damage or wear, verifying the integrity of the cables and pulleys, and checking the stability of the structure. Regular maintenance and inspections should be conducted to address any issues before they escalate.

Rigging and Slings

Proper rigging is essential for the safe and efficient lifting of loads. Rigging involves attaching slings, shackles, and other lifting devices to the load and connecting them to the hook or block. It is vital to follow industry standards and guidelines for rigging to prevent accidents or damage to the equipment. The load should be evenly distributed and properly secured to ensure stability during lifting and lowering operations.

Communicating with the Crew

Clear and effective communication is crucial when operating a Derrick On Ship. The Derrick operator must have open lines of communication with the crew members involved in the operation. This includes signals to indicate when to lift, lower, stop, or adjust the load. Standardized hand signals or radio communication protocols should be established and followed to ensure smooth coordination among the team.

Monitoring Load Capacity

It is essential to monitor the load capacity of the Derrick to prevent overloading. Each Derrick has a specified safe working load (SWL), which should not be exceeded. The load capacity may vary depending on factors such as the boom length, angle, and prevailing weather conditions. Constant monitoring and adherence to load capacity limits are critical for maintaining the stability and integrity of the Derrick On Ship.

Maintaining Equipment

Regular maintenance and upkeep of the Derrick equipment are crucial for its safe and efficient operation. This includes lubricating moving parts, inspecting cables and pulleys for signs of wear or damage, and addressing any issues promptly. Proper maintenance practices not only extend the lifespan of the equipment but also minimize the risk of accidents or malfunctions during operations.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

Operating a Derrick On Ship can present various challenges and unexpected situations. Here are some common challenges that may arise and how to troubleshoot them:

Derrick Stability Issues

Maintaining the stability of the Derrick is paramount for safe operations. However, factors such as strong winds, vessel movement, or uneven loads can pose stability challenges. In such cases, it is crucial to assess the situation and take corrective measures promptly. This may involve adjusting the Derrick’s position, reinforcing guy wires for added stability, or temporarily suspending operations until the conditions improve.

Equipment Malfunctions

Equipment malfunctions can occur unexpectedly, potentially disrupting operations. Regular inspections and preventive maintenance can help identify and address issues proactively. In the event of an equipment malfunction, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for troubleshooting or seek assistance from qualified technicians to resolve the problem promptly.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Offshore operations are often susceptible to adverse weather conditions, including high winds, rough seas, or heavy rainfall. These conditions can impact the stability and safety of Derrick operations. It is crucial to closely monitor weather forecasts and follow established protocols for suspending operations during severe weather. Proper planning and contingency measures can help minimize the impact of adverse weather conditions on Derrick operations.

Do you Know? How a Derrick crane looks like,

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the role of a Derrick On Ship?

A Derrick On Ship plays a vital role in lifting heavy loads and conducting drilling operations on offshore structures. It provides the necessary support, stability, and infrastructure for various activities, including well drilling, equipment installation, and maintenance tasks.

2. How can I ensure my safety while operating a Derrick On Ship?

Ensuring safety while operating a Derrick On Ship involves wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), following fall protection systems, knowing emergency procedures, conducting hazard identification and risk assessments, and obtaining proper training and certification

3. What are some common risks associated with Derrick operations?

Operating a Derrick On Ship involves inherent risks, and it is important to be aware of them. Some common risks associated with Derrick operations include:

• Falling objects: There is a risk of objects or equipment falling from heights, potentially causing injuries or damage.
• Cable entanglement: Cables and wires can become entangled, leading to operational hazards and delays.
• High-pressure systems: The presence of high-pressure systems, such as hydraulic systems or pressurized drilling fluids, can pose risks if not properly controlled.
• Adverse weather conditions: Offshore operations are susceptible to adverse weather, which can impact the stability and safety of the Derrick.
• Equipment malfunctions: Equipment malfunctions can occur unexpectedly, potentially disrupting operations and compromising safety.

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial to follow safety protocols, conduct regular inspections and maintenance, provide adequate training to personnel, and remain vigilant during operations.

4. How often should a Derrick On Ship undergo inspections?

Regular inspections are essential to ensure the safety and integrity of the Derrick On Ship. The frequency of inspections may vary depending on factors such as regulatory requirements, operational demands, and equipment condition. However, it is generally recommended to conduct routine inspections at least once every three months. Additionally, pre-operation inspections should be carried out before commencing any lifting or drilling activities to identify any immediate concerns or hazards.

5. What qualifications are required to operate a Derrick On Ship?

Operating a Derrick On Ship requires specialized skills and qualifications. The specific qualifications may vary depending on the jurisdiction and company requirements. However, some common qualifications include:

• Proper training on Derrick operations, including safe lifting practices, rigging techniques, and equipment maintenance.
• Certification in offshore crane operations or rigging operations.
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards, guidelines, and regulations.
• Understanding of emergency response procedures and safety protocols.

It is important to undergo comprehensive training programs and obtain relevant certifications to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a Derrick On Ship.

6. What are some best practices for maintaining the Derrick On Ship?

Maintaining the Derrick On Ship is crucial for its safe and efficient operation. Here are some best practices for maintenance:

• Conduct regular inspections to identify any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration.
• Lubricate moving parts to minimize friction and ensure smooth operation.
• Clean and remove any debris or contaminants that may affect the equipment’s performance.
• Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and adhere to recommended maintenance schedules.
• Keep detailed records of maintenance activities, including inspections, repairs, and replacements.
• Provide regular training to personnel on maintenance practices and safe operation.

Following these best practices helps extend the lifespan of the Derrick On Ship, minimize downtime due to equipment failure, and ensure the safety of the crew and operations.

Conclusion

The Derrick On Ship is a critical component of offshore operations, providing the necessary support, stability, and infrastructure for lifting heavy loads and conducting drilling activities. It plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of offshore structures. By following proper operating procedures, adhering to safety protocols, conducting regular inspections, and providing ongoing maintenance, Derrick operations can be conducted safely and successfully.

Operating a Derrick On Ship requires a skilled and trained workforce, adherence to safety measures, and a commitment to ongoing maintenance and inspections. By prioritizing safety, training, and proper maintenance practices, the risks associated with Derrick operations can be minimized, ensuring the smooth execution of offshore operations.