COVER STORY
Meeting the Challenges of FPSO Design and Construction
In this Q & A , OGI sits down with the Senior Vice President of Business Development , Paal Gunnar Heistad , of Yinson Production . The company is committed to driving an inclusive energy transition , with a commitment to being carbon neutral by 2030 , and net zero by 2050 .
OGI : Can you explain the process of converting an existing oil tanker into an FPSO unit ?
Heistad : In simple terms , the hull conversion entails the refurbishment and life extension of the existing oil tanker . The key steps include replacing the steel and refurbishing the marine systems that will be used for FPSO duty .
The tanker then needs to be modified to accommodate the FPSO mooring system ( either turret or spread moored solution ) and the incoming and outgoing well streams .
Finally , the tanker deck and superstructure need to be structurally modified and prepared for the installation of marine utility systems , topside module support structures and the topside modules themselves .
OGI : How does Yinson Production ensure the reliability and safety of its FPSO and FSO units in harsh offshore environments ?
Heistad : FPSO and FSO units often operate in harsh and unpredictable offshore environments , facing extreme weather conditions , wave and wind forces , and corrosive saltwater .
To remain reliable and safe , these floating facilities require extensive engineering and operational expertise . Our sophisticated
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FPSO Atlanta in Brazil .
engineering designs , rigorous maintenance protocols , and effective risk management strategies are all necessary to assure the structural integrity and stability of floating units while mitigating risks .
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At Yinson Production , we diligently adhere to these established norms to effectively address the inherent challenges that accompany offshore operations .
OGI : What are the main challenges faced during the design and construction of FPSO units ?
Heistad : The main challenge commonly revolves around the integration of various complex components to achieve the
“ We are at the forefront of integrating carbon reduction technologies into our FPSO fleet ,” says Mr Heistad .
Paal Gunnar Heistad , Yinson Production
desired FPSO capacity and performance , as specified by the field operators . Additionally , finding the right shipyard , fabrication facility , and equipment suppliers is a challenge in a tightening market .
As a top-tier FPSO contractor , we are tasked with the engineering , procurement and construction ( EPC ) of the FPSO hull , topsides and integration of various systems to enable efficient and reliable operations . Besides that , our effective supply chain management and diligent project management , allow for on-time and on-budget delivery .
OGI : Can you elaborate on Yinson Production ’ s Zero Emissions FPSO Concept and its expected impact on carbon neutrality goals ?
Heistad : Yinson is committed to driving an inclusive energy transition , with a commitment to being carbon neutral by 2030 and net zero by 2050 . This ambition has driven the innovation in our FPSO designs , culminating in the Zero Emission FPSO concept .
This concept encompasses various emission-reduction and energy-efficiency technologies to improve overall efficiency . Implementing the concept is fundamental to achieving our climate goals . Since the introduction of the concept , we have made strides in integrating most