TLPs for W Africa Applications

摘要

As reservoirs are discovered in areas with little or no pipeline infrastructure, another very effective use of dry tree solutions has emerged. This involves drilling functions provided by a dry tree unit such as a TLP, with processing, utilities and storage on an adjacent FPSO. This hybrid architecture is extremely popular for several current W Africa developments. This paper presents the adaptation of the proven TLP concept to this promising application in W Africa. Due to unique metocean conditions, the optimum configuration of a TLP for W Africa is much different than for the Gulf of Mexico. Design requirements for W Africa, deck and hull configuration, global performance and tendons are specifically addressed. Details of the Extended Tension Leg Platform (ETLP) are presented. Finally, due to the remote nature of the field, several key delivery-related challenges must be overcome. This paper addresses transportation and installation of a completely integrated and commissioned unit and the innovative use of temporary installation devices.