An Innovative 'No Hot Work' Approach to Hull Repair on In-Service FPSOs Using Sandwich Plate System Overlay

摘要

The Sandwich Plate System (SPS), comprising two (steel)rnplates bonded to a continuous elastomer core, forms a muchrnstiffer and stronger system than a single steel plate. The SPSrndoesn’t need closely spaced stiffeners and, as compared to thernsingle steel plate, loses strength less rapidly per unit thicknessrnof corrosion loss of a steel plate. An SPS Overlay bonds arnnew plate and elastomer core to an existing, suitably preparedrnplate to give substantially increased strength and extendedrnservice life. An SPS Overlay is proposed to rehabilitate areasrnof the bottom of the ConocoPhillips FPSO INDEPENDENCE.rnRather than the usual welds, a structural adhesive is used tornbond the steel components together until the elastomer corernsets and cures. This eliminates hot work. Placed betweenrnexisting stiffeners, the SPS Overlay reduces the stresses due tornhydrostatic pressure and the new inner plate restores orrnextends the corrosion life.