Since the eighties, float over methodology has gained prominence world over for installing heavy integrated topsides. With its clear advantage over heavy lift installations, the method allows minimizing offshore hook up time and improves the over all schedule.

This article describes the various phases of installation of such topsides by citing the example of a heavy topside designed, fabricated and installed by NPCC. The paper also seeks to spread awareness and to assist designers on critical design considerations associated with the installation engineering of the topside subjected to weight growth. The following are discussed:

  • weight growth of the topside and few recommendations on weight engineering of heavy topsides,

  • modifications carried out on the installation barge to carry the heavy topside after the weight growth and

  • float over installation of the topside and the necessity to carry out installation engineering at an early stage of the project etc.

Keywords:
transportation, modification, th offshore symposium, upstream oil & gas, installation, installation engineering, mooring system, calculation, clearance, barge
Subjects:
Offshore Facilities and Subsea Systems, Mooring systems, Installation equipment and techniques
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2013. The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers
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