Low-motion technology transforms economics of ultra-deepwater fields
INTECSEA (WorleyParsons Group), an independent provider of engineering and project management services for full lifecycle asset management, has launched a range of low-motion (LM) floaters – the flagship LM-FPSO, the LM-FLNG and the LM-SEMI. Suitable for all water depths, the LM-FPSO transforms the economics of harsh, remote offshore fields with savings of $500m – $1.2bn (USD) per project.
The riser-friendly LM-FPSO is capable of operating from ultra-deep (3,000m+) to shallow water fields. The design maintains all the advantages of conventional FPSOs while enabling the use of more robust and cost-effective riser solutions, such as steel catenary risers (SCRs) and top tensioned risers (TTRs). Crucially, the LM-FPSO does not need a turret or swivel, which offers major additional savings versus traditional solutions.
Comprised of field-proven components, the reliable LM technology significantly improves platform habitation and helicopter operation while maintaining quayside integration. The technology’s improved stability also makes the floater less sensitive to the topside vertical center of gravity and weight changes resulting in reduced risk to the project schedule and cost during execution.
Geeta Thakorlal, president, INTECSEA, says: “With the easy oil long gone, operators are increasingly turning to more remote, hostile and often deepwater environments. However, the challenge is the financial viability of these fields. The LM technology is incredibly exciting because it represents a major step forward in improving the economics of these offshore developments.
“The combination of established, field-proven components and motion response verified by model testing, along with our technical expertise and industry track-record, has proved the LM technology as a reliable and cost-effective solution for all water depths and environments.”
The LM-FPSO’s superior motion response enables the application of large diameter SCRs in wet-tree applications. It also supports the hosting of TTRs in dry-tree applications and well drilling and completions from the floater, which is currently not feasible on conventional FPSOs due to their inherently high motion response.
The LM-FPSO is currently undergoing certification by DNV and was recently awarded the 2017 E&P Special Meritorious Award for Engineering Innovation in the floating systems and rigs category.
INTECSEA will be exhibiting and presenting a paper on the LM suite of technologies at OTC in Houston from the 1st – 4th of May 2017.
