The Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) has taken delivery of a new geophysical exploration research vessel built locally by HJ Shipbuilding and Construction.
Designed by Norway's Ulstein Design and Solutions, Tamhae 3 is the first geophysical exploration research vessel to be built domestically in South Korea. It replaces Tamhae 2, which was completed in 1996.
The vessel will be used to fulfill tasks related to seismic and oceanographic research such as high-resolution seafloor mapping, seafloor survey, and sediment sampling.
The 6,000-tonne newbuild is capable of both 3D and 4D marine exploration and can analyse seafloor faults to detect changes occurring over time. According to the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, this capability will be useful in sensing seabed seismic signals and selecting sites for carbon capture and storage (CCS).
The hull will have Ulstein's proprietary inverted bow design, which will contribute to reductions in slamming and vibrations, making the vessel suitable for research operations.
Tamhae 3 is designed for operation in a broad range of marine environments, from Korea's continental shelves to the polar regions.
