Cold work composite repairs minimize disruption on FPSOs

摘要

OFFSHORE OPERATORS are monitoring Cold Pad's developments in bonded composite repairs of corroded steel structures in FPSOs. This follows successful outcomes for the first two applications of the company's ColdShield process on floaters in service in tropical locations. In both cases, repairs were conducted with minimal disruption to normal activities, and no impact on production. Crop and renew (steel cutting and welding) are the conventional methods for addressing corrosion damage for the shipping industry, but the associated risks of hot work in a flammable or explosive environment can force a full field shutdown of an offshore production facility. FPSOs are particularly vulnerable because of their crude oil storage function: if the oil tanks themselves need repairs, cleaning them to ensure safe conditions for welders can lead to weeks of disruption.