Routine inspections revealed that bilge keel supports had cracked at the transverse bracket connection, potentially increasing roll dynamics on the vessel, according to two well-placed sources.
Operator Chevron now has to decide whether to fix the problem offshore, or dock the unit for shipyard repairs.
The bilge keels run laterally to the main keel and are designed to reduce roll movements. Two sources working close to the Frade project said the damage detected on the bilge keel would not necessarily lead to a shutdown.
“An
