First contract award for ‘Solitaire’ double joint factory upgrade

Allseas has taken the first step in enhancing Solitaire’s pipelay capabilities, awarding the first major contract for the Double Joint Factory (DJF) upgrade to Italian family-owned contractor Goriziane. Goriziane will deliver all pipe handling deck equipment, plus the electrical and instrumentation (E&I) components necessary to power and control the systems. Delivery is scheduled for January 2026, with installation and commissioning to be performed in-house later the same year.

The vital role of the DJF

The DJF is key to Solitaire’s pipelay operations. Located at main deck level, the factory consists of two identical production lines where single 12-metre pipe joints are welded into 24-metre double joints before entering the main production line. The result is a faster pipelay process, with improved weld quality and consistency. More than 13,000 kilometre of steel pipe has passed through the double joint factory since the original equipment was designed and installed in 1998. Modernising the factory requires major investment in the various pipe handling, tracking, processing, welding and inspection systems, as well as key structural modifications.

Enhancing efficiency and safety with state-of-the-art upgrades

The upgrade will boost the entire production process, from line-up to welding of the pipe, deliver major efficiency and safety gains, and provide crew with a state-of-the-art working environment. “This major investment is a cornerstone of Allseas’ commitment to maintain its position as the leading trunkline and deepwater pipeline contractor, and to advance installation capabilities and automation in our production processes,” says Roderik Heerema, Project Manager.

Solitaire: a leader in advanced pipelay installation

Solitaire is one of the world’s most advanced pipelay vessels. She has been setting new standards in pipeline installation since her launch in 1998. Known for her impressive pipelay speed and depth records, she boasts a pipe carrying capacity of 22,000 tonnes and uses full dynamic positioning for precise manoeuvring. In 2007, Solitaire set the world record for ultra-deepwater pipeline installation at a depth of 2775 meters (9100 feet). Solitaire’s high cruising speed, high laying speed and substantial carrying capacity make her competitive for pipelay projects anywhere in the world.