Construction of 2 Aluminum Catamarans in Venezuela
Project Details
Role
Planning Manager
12
Budget
$1 million to $10 million
Duration
2+ years (2018 - 2021)
Team Size
Industry
Shipbuilding
Project Objective
The objective of this project was to construct two passenger catamaran vessels made of naval aluminum to serve the Cumana-Araya water route. This initiative aimed to replace the use of artisanal boats, enhancing safety, speed, and comfort for commuters in Cumana and Araya, Sucre State, Venezuela. The project was envisioned to address the transportation challenges faced by the local population, ensuring a reliable and efficient service.
Project Description
The project involved the construction of two catamaran vessels designed for the transportation of 104 passengers each. These vessels were customized according to the owner's specifications and complied with the parameters set by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and international regulations of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with a focus on SOLAS and MARPOL standards.
The hull characteristics included two aluminum pontoons, fully welded, constructed with 5083 or 5086 H116 aluminum from the 5000 series. Plasma CNC cutting was used for precise preparation of hull structures. Frames were transverse rings crossed by longitudinal reinforcements, forming the integral structure of the vessel. Once all internal structures were in place, hull plates were welded to form the hull lining.
The multi-hulls were designed according to the standards of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), specifically the rules for the construction and classification of high-speed craft. The structure configuration was of a mixed type, with frames spaced 1m apart (0.5m at the bow) and longitudinal spacing of 0.3m, with a deck union spacing of 0.2m.
The catamarans had the following main dimensions:
Length Overall (L): 18m
Length Between Perpendiculars (Lpp): 17.28m
Molded Beam: 6.8m
Maximum Draft: 0.6m
Displacement: 30 tons
Power: 2 x 800 hp @ 2100 Rpm SCANIA (CDM) marine engines QSM11 Operating
Speed: 24 knots (estimated)
Passenger Capacity: 104 passengers + 3 crew members
Fuel Capacity: 2 tanks of 2100 liters each, plus a daily tank of 2000 liters, totaling 6200 liters.
Freshwater Capacity: 1 tank of 600 liters
Black Water Capacity: 2 tanks of 300 liters each
Bilge Water Capacity: 2 tanks of 300 liters each
Products/Technologies
Engineering Design Software, Project Management Software, Communication Tools, Quality Assurance and Control Systems
Lessons Learned
Working in a high-risk and volatile environment like Venezuela, amidst hyperinflation and material shortages, taught valuable lessons. Adaptability Risk Management Resource Optimization Communication and Collaboration Resilience
Project Wins
Timely Delivery: Despite facing hurdles like hyperinflation and material shortages, the project successfully delivered two ships within the planned timeframe. This accomplishment showcased the team's resilience and ability to meet project deadlines despite adverse conditions. Operational Success: The delivery of the two ships marked a significant milestone in improving transportation on the Cumana-Araya water route. These vessels provided commuters with safer, faster, and more comfortable trans
Functional Responsibilities
Time Management
Quality Management
Communications Management
Scope Management
Risk Management
Integration Management
Stakeholder Management
Cost Management
Resource Management
Procurement Management