Jacking, loadout and floatover operations for 19 600 ton offshore platform successfully completed

Mammoet’s scope included the weighing, jack-up, load-out and floatover installation operations of the 19 600 ton production, drilling, and quarters (PDQ) platform. Leveraging its comprehensive engineering capabilities, the company ensured the precise transfer of the platform's topsides unit from the quayside onto the transportation barge STB-1 and subsequently onto the jacket foundation offshore. Prior to its departure, the topsides unit underwent meticulous commissioning and operational testing onshore, significantly reducing offshore installation and start-up activities.

At the quayside, the topsides unit was expertly jacked up to a height of 17 m and then gently lowered onto a custom loadout support frame, utilising Mammoet's largest jacking system – Mega Jack 5200. The unit was then skidded onto the barge, where it was sea-fastened and prepared for its voyage to the ACG field. The skidding operation onto the barge's deck was accomplished using four 900 ton strandjacks, break-out jacks, high capacity ballast system, load monitoring quay jacks comprising of six 600 ton jacks, and mooring winches.

Upon its arrival at the designated field location, Mammoet executed the installation of the topside unit onto the jacket foundation through a floatover operation. The barge was precisely positioned over the substructure and the topsides unit was then lowered onto the substructure, while maintaining the barge’s position. The barge’s internal ballasting and winching system was enhanced with Mammoet’s float-over winches and configurable high-flow rapid ballast system. This enhancement added an additional flow capability of approximately 32 000m3/hr. This centrally controlled and monitored ballast system ensured real-time oversight, guaranteeing operational continuity and a safe floatover process.

Throughout the construction of the 19 600 ton topsides unit, more than 21 million hours were worked injury-free. This unit, comprising vital oil and gas processing facilities, an integrated drilling rig, a gas compressor, and living quarters, was expertly constructed by Azfen in the Bayil fabrication yard, utilising local infrastructure and resources.

Mammoet played a key role in the integration of the platform’s DES and MDSM modules, totaling 2400 and 2350 tonnes respectively, showcasing the company's multi-faceted capabilities. The combination of Mammoet's advanced jacking and skidding systems, along with SPMTs, ensured a seamless and secure operation.

Looking ahead, drilling is expected to commence in the coming months with the delivery of ACE's first oil projected to begin in early 2024.

Dan Kempin, Business Development Manager for Mammoet, commented: “As we continue to redefine industry standards through our innovative solutions and steadfast commitment to safety, the successful loadout and float over operations of this massive topsides unit stands as a testament to Mammoet's dedication to excellence in engineered heavy lifting and transport.”

Read the article online at: https://www.oilfieldtechnology.com/offshore-and-subsea/13092023/jacking-loadout-and-floatover-operations-for-19-600-ton-offshore-platform-successfully-completed/