Dredge-Wheeler

Caterpillar Marine Power Systems has announced the successful repower and commissioning of the Dredge Wheeler with a fully integrated Cat® solution. The largest hopper dredge in the Corps of Engineers fleet, the Dredge Wheeler features 2x Cat C280-16 marine engines rated at 4600 bkW @ 900 rpm for propulsion. Additionally the vessel features 2x Cat 280-12 propulsion engines rated at 3700 bkW @ 1000 rpm to operate the variable speed dredge generators. The Wheeler is based out of the New Orleans District and primarily operates in the Southwest Pass of the Mississippi River and has been in operation since 1982. http://www.dredgingtoday.com/2013/10/09/caterpillar-repowers-army-corps-dredge-wheeler-usa/

The "Wheeler" sustained some structural damage when the "Carnival Triumph" plowed into it after the cruise ship broke free of its moorings during high winds on April 3, in Mobile. Preliminary assessments showed that most of the damages were sustained around the housing area and none reported in the hull area. The damage appeared to be limited to cracked frames, plating and handrails. A dive team was set to do a full perimeter inspection dive on Apr 16 to confirm that there were no damages to the hull. The "Wheeler" was due to resume dredging in the lower Mississippi River in May. However, the Corps will have to perform structural repairs in order for the dredger to be deemed seaworthy by the U.S. Coast Guard. The goal was to try and get as much of the new repairs done in that time frame as well. The repairs could delay the dredge by a couple of weeks.

When the Triumph broke loose, officials said it slammed into another ship called the Dredge Wheeler. The Army Corps of Engineers owns and operates the vessel. “Generally, it operates in Mississippi River keeping the river clear for commercial navigation,” said Signal Ship Repair Vice President Robert Beckman. Signal Ship Repair has been working on the ship for about 8 months now. Before the Triumph ended up in the Shipyard’s backyard, workers saw it coming. More with video http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/local_news/mobile_county/army-corp-ship-damaged-by-triumph