The project, which began in July last year, saw GL Noble Denton lead the vessel’s inception through an in-depth project that included a capital and operating cost estimate for the venture, subsea design, hull, turret and mooring specification, topsides process selection and overall design for the vessel.
During the 35,000 man-hour project, GL Noble Denton evaluated alternative subsea architectures for the FPSO, including its relocation and the commingling of fluids. The team also reviewed flow assurance and hydraulic issues associated with these options, in addition to studying CO2 and produced water injection.
GL Noble Denton’s work saw four different liquefaction technologies evaluated as part of the project, with a single, mixed refrigerant process being selected. A variety of refrigerant compressor drive systems were studied, prior to the selection of an aero-derivative based system with a hybrid gas turbine/steam turbine power system.
The team then designed a hull measuring 400 m x 65 m, reviewed two different LNG storage tank technologies, and prepared modulisation studies and layouts. The design included a review of current side-by-side and tandem offloading technologies for LNG, which led to the team choosing to progress a side-by-side system using loading arms.
A structured hazard identification and safety management process was also developed for the project, for use in later project stages.
Commenting on GL Noble Denton’s involvement with the project, Senior LNG Consultant David Haynes, said: ‘I’m delighted that we have been able to help our client take make considerable headway in the development of one of the world’s first floating LNG FPSOs come into fruition. GL Noble Denton has relished the opportunity to apply decades of gas industry experience to this unique and innovative project, and the results have been worth the challenges it has brought us.”
