Issue 01 • 2010
energıze
GL Noble Denton
e n e r g y. e f f i c i e n c y. e n g i n e e r i n g .
www.gl-nobledenton.com
oil & gas
Getting to the Top
design Unique Combination of Competencies
rules Following in Captain Noble’s Footsteps
software SynerGEE Affects Energy Costs
3
editorial
To Our Readers
We are working hard to establish ourselves and be recognized as a leading advisor to the
oil and gas industry. GL Noble Denton has a comprehensive service portfolio ready to
assist to provide safe, sustainable solutions with quality you can trust, wherever you operate.
As a full-service provider and independent advisors with broad upstream and midstream
competence for the complete asset lifecycle, we provide consulting, design, assurance and
project execution. GL Noble Denton combines excellent engineering and analytical skills with
operational experience of offshore, maritime and onshore oil and gas assets.
Given the breadth of our skills, our experience and as one of the mechanisms of
keeping our customers informed, we have launched a customer magazine to let you know on
a regular basis about the scope of our activities. We hope this updates you on the projects
we are involved with and the technical and operational challenges we are dealing with. While
safety, integrity, reliability and performance are our fixed targets, we rely on our strong
John Wishart
expert­ise in complex oil and gas assets such as MODUs, FPSOs, pipelines, subsea systems,
OSVs, marine operations, project management and software services to get the job done.
Our focus is beyond a given project. We share your understanding of a challeng-
ing commercial environment as well as legislative changes and your concern about safe and
clean energy supplies. Today’s demand to balance energy, security, employment, and
economic development with combating global climate change requires diversity,
competition and, after all, efficiency. In less than 30 years, the world will need 45 per cent
more energy than it consumes now, and double current demand by 2050. While this
projection requires a huge investment, it is of greatest importance for the industry to
preserve the global climate and to reduce greenhouse gas.
GL Noble Denton has the ambition to play its part promoting innovation, quality
and efficiency in energy exploration, production and transportation. We are ready to assess
investment choices and engineering designs as a way of making sure that you, our clients,
remain competitive – today and in the future.
Yours sincerely,
John Wishart
President, GL Noble Denton
01/2010
3
co n t e n t s 0 1 / 2 0 1 0
40
Synergee:
Guidelines:
software for cost
following in
28
optimisation at
pump stations
12
4
32
14
18
Captain Noble’s
footsteps
31
36
Corrosion:
Spadeadam:
Mooring:
Resources:
Interview:
Installation:
yours faith-
the need
ultra-deepwater
supply and
David Wells
dynamic
fully: rust loves
for full-scale
research – new
demand – the
about his new
positioning –
sea water
testing
possibilities
peak oil mystery
business unit
faster than ever
energıze
profile
inbrief
GL Noble Denton in Brief
G L
Noble Denton is a technical advisor and trusted partner for
the oil and gas industry.
T he
oil and gas business segment of the GL Group helps to design,
build, install and operate oil and gas onshore, maritime and offshore assets to ensure safety, sustainability and
superior value.
G L
Noble Denton is the merger between Germanischer Lloyd’s
(GL) Oil & Gas business and Noble Denton, a premier provider of li-
fecycle marine and offshore engineering services. Since January 2010,
they have been offering their services as GL Noble Denton.
GL Noble Denton is a full-service provider with broad upstream and
midstream competence for the complete asset lifecycle.
GL Noble Denton combines excellent engineering and analytical skills
with operational experience of offshore, maritime and onshore oil and
gas assets. The oil and gas business segment of GL employs more than
3,000 engineers and experts in 80 countries.
We have strong expertise in complex oil and gas assets such as
MODUs, FPSOs, pipelines, subsea systems, OSVs – and assurance, asset
integrity, safety and risk, marine operations, project management and
software services to match. The scope of technical services includes safety, integrity, reliability and performance management. GL Noble Denton is a truly independent advisor without any vested
interest in selling a design, installation, fabrication or equipment.
GL Noble Denton services oil and gas clients in onshore production,
Design:
8
a unique
onshore pipelines, storage, import terminals, LNG, refineries and pet-
combination of
rochemicals, distribution networks as well as mobile offshore drilling
competencies
units, mobile offshore production units, fixed platforms, subsea, risers
and flowlines, offshore support vessels, tankers and shipping and offshore pipelines. We oversee and support the full lifecycle of an asset
22
21
42
SAFETY: prevent- Environment:
Awards:
ing accidents –
efficient coal
GL Noble Denton’s
human factors
gasification
software solutions
engineering
technology
acclaimed
01/2010
from project concept to decommissioning. The business segment has a global reach in the oil and gas centres of the world.
GL Noble Denton
www.gl-nobledenton.com
5
Offering consulting across
the entire asset lifecycle,
GL Noble Denton combines
exceptional engineering
and analytical skills with
operational experience of
offshore and onshore oil
and gas assets.
6
Photo: Atlantic Hose
oi li at
as
& r igdaesn tm
c oenr gs ue lrt i n g
energıze
advanced
engıneerıng
01/2010
7
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g d e s i g n
Centre of Design Competency
GL Noble Denton is the leading consultant for jack-up rigs and
dynamic positioning services as well as for design work
“These new vessels are complex in both the jack-
“One element of our design work success was our previ-
up and dynamic positioning areas,” says David
ous experience with mobile offshore production unit conver-
Rowan, Managing Director, Execution Services
sions. In the case of the Legendre project, we developed an
at GL Noble Denton. “We add a practical dimension to such
innovative top-tensioned-riser concept that saved the client a
units because we have extensive experience in managing off-
lot of money by eliminating a large wellhead support platform.
shore wind farm projects and are currently overseeing the
We also addressed the challenge of seabed scour, a common
biggest offshore wind farm to-date, the Thanet project off the
problem for mat-type units on hard bottoms, by developing an
UK south-east coast.”
anti-scour system that could be quickly deployed by remote-
GL Noble Denton has been awarded a contract by a
company for jack-up system upgrade design work offshore
Current projects include jack-up system design work.
as well as overall project management services for this
“We have performed many basic designs for FPSOs, jack-up
development.
8
operated vehicle.”
units, and other offshore equipment. The aim of basic deenergıze
sign is to establish the main characteristics of the unit and
has worked on all the industry’s “work-horses” such as the
develop preliminary performance criteria and initial costing.”
Aker H-3 for many years. “Our second root is Noble Denton,
acknowledged as the world’s leading jack-up unit consultancy.
Heritage in Rig Design
Noble Denton has built up a huge breadth of knowledge in
“As an example, the ‘Legendre’ mobile offshore production
jack-up design and operation, which proved beneficial in the
unit, as purchased by Oceaneering, was unsuited to its in-
‘Legendre’ example. We were able to turn this rig into a very
tended use in harsh environments. During the basic design
efficient production unit after it had lain idle for years because
phase, we developed an innovative ‘pipe-in-pipe’ configura-
of inherent design problems.”
tion for the legs that re-configured the existing structure very
The two main design competency centres are in Norway
cost-effectively to withstand the significantly-increased loads.
and Sharjah. The former is supported by a strong team based
Once we had shown it was doable we moved into the detail
in Poland that is focused mostly on marine systems. The
design phase. Our heritage in rig design has two roots: firstly
Group is considering expanding design centres into both the
Far East and Brazil in response to client requests. “GL Noble Denton believes
abstract
in putting the right person on the job.
Thanks to our large and geographicallydiverse staff we can place personnel
where needed to best fit the requirements
of the work at hand. This has two ben-
L Noble Denton has
G
extensive experience in
managing offshore
projects.
now-how in design and
K
operation advances
efficient production.
efits: first it allows the ‘best for client’ person to be used, and second it offers our staff the ability to
travel and advance their careers.”
GL Noble Denton operates in a matrix structure with four
regions – the Americas, Europe, Middle East and Far East –
and four business segments: Technical Assurance, Advanced
Engineering Consultancy, Marine Operations and Consultancy
Photo: Gazprom
Experience.
Offshore drilling
units have to
and Execution Services, complemented by a Major Accounts
segment. Each region is further broken into countries, and
satisfy specific
each segment into individual service lines. “This organisation-
requirements.
al structure will allow us to perform a much broader range of
services and to be a single stop for clients. Our average job
our acquisition of Standard Engineering, a company that has
size is expected to increase noticeably,” says Mr Rowan.
cm
designed numerous semi-submersible mobile offshore drilling
units. Examples are latest-generation rigs such as the Aker
GL Noble Denton Expert:
H-6, the biggest semi-submersible mobile offshore drilling
David Rowan
unit ever developed.” Standard Engineering has been involved
in semi-submersibles pretty much since their inception and
01/2010
Managing Director Execution Services
Phone: +713 543 4319
E-Mail: david.rowan@gl-group.com
9
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g d e s i g n
A Unique Combination
of Competencies
In Norway, the first two Aker H-6e rigs leave the yard –
the world’s largest semi-submersible mobile offshore drilling
units. GL Noble Denton was a preferred partner not only for
hull design
The first two Aker H-6e semi-submersible rigs,
“Aker Barents” and “Aker Spitsbergen”, are now
operational. They represent the sixth generation
of drilling rigs from Aker Solutions.
With a displacement of 56,900 tonnes and a deck area
of 6,300 m², these are the largest drilling rigs ever built.
With the H-6e rigs, Aker Solutions takes offshore drilling into
harsher environments at high latitudes and in greater water
depths.
Aker Spitsbergen and Aker Barents are now fully operational in the North Atlantic and the North Sea after an initial
period of offshore testing and commissioning. For several
decades, GL Noble Denton’s design department in Brevik /
Norway has been one of Aker Solutions’ preferred partners
for hull design.
Giant. Newer,
bigger: the
In the Aker H-6e project GL Noble Denton has been res­
6th generation
ponsible for all detailed design, engineering and strength
of Aker rigs.
analyses of the substructure (everything located below the
10
energıze
Finishing. After
completion of the
substructure, the
hulls were towed
to Norway.
top of the columns). GL Noble Denton has also played an
In 2009 the design department in Brevik, Norway, merged
important role in following up on the construction of the pon-
operations with their former competitor Standard Engineer-
toons, columns and bracings at Dubai Drydocks (now Dry-
ing in the neighbouring city of Sandef-
docks World-Dubai).
jord. Today, the joint GL Noble Denton
A Key Factor for Success
and Brevik-Sandefjord team represents
a unique combination of technology
At the peak of the project, 56 engineers where involved,
competencies in the field of mobile off-
representing disciplines as diverse as naval architecture,
shore units. Over the past 25 years, the
machinery, piping and structural engineering as well as elec-
two companies have jointly contributed to
trical, instrument and telecommunications (EIT) engineering.
abstract
In the project, GL Noble
Denton was responsible for
the substructure.
t the peak of the project,
A
56 engineers were involved,
representing different
disciplines.
the design of 175 mobile offshore units.
After completion of the substructure, the hulls were towed to
“Such an accumulation of experience is hard to find anywhere
Norway for assembly of the topside.
else on the planet,” says Lønnerød.
mwh
“We are proud and honoured to have been part of this
cutting-edge technology project,” says Engineering Manager
Tor Lønnerød of GL Noble Denton. “Hull design has been the
GL Noble Denton Expert:
basis of our company since it was founded in 1978. Our long-
Tor Lønnerød
time collaboration with Aker has been a key factor in bringing
us to where we are today.”
01/2010
General Manager GL Noble Denton Brevik and Global Design
Phone: +47 35 51 71 15
E-Mail: tor.lonnerod@gl-group.com
11
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g c o r ro s i o n
Yours Faithfully:
Rust Loves Sea Water
Steel and salt water make a corrosive couple. Protecting offshore structures
against rust can be a frustrating task, to say the least. Even small mistakes will
show soon. Remote locations and environmental issues add to the headache
Proper corrosion protection not only means
offshore platform legs in the Morecambe Bay gas field in
long-term cost-savings but is also a safety-
the Irish Sea, in 1984. The support columns of all platforms
critical issue. Therefore optimised, economically
were sheathed in copper-nickel sheets from +13 to –2 metres
and ecologically feasible anticorrosion concepts for offshore
above and below the lowest water level. The metal sheets
structures are in high demand. The topic was discussed in
were 4 mm thick and were welded directly onto the steel. The
depth during the 9th Conference on Corrosion Protection in
underwater sections of the columns were protected cathodic­
Maritime Engineering in January.
ally with zinc anodes fixed directly to the steel. No corrosion
The Copper-Nickel Alternative
Bernd Sagebiel of KME Germany, a manufacturer of copper-
“Regular inspections have found no indication of corrosion
on the steel or the alloy cladding,” Sagebiel emphasised. Since
nickel alloy products for seawater applications specialising in
the robust nature of the material also prevented mechanical
the protection of highly exposed transitional and splash zones
damage, there was never any need for repairs in the alloy-
of offshore structures, explained: “Cathodic
protected zone. “The fact that the transition and splash zones
protection is effective in zones of structures
of the steel columns neither require corrosion coatings nor any
that are permanently immersed in water.
repairs or maintenance work clearly shows that copper-nickel
However, it is largely ineffective in transi-
alloy cladding is a durable, economical alternative to conven-
tional and splash zones, because the metal
tional protection methods for offshore load-bearing structures.”
abstract
E conomically and ecologically
feasible anticorrosion con-
cepts for offshore structures are in high demand.
T he unique conditions in the
environment must be noted.
is not continuously in contact with seawater,
the electrolyte.” The traditional method of
12
allowance was specified.
Environmental Responsibility
protecting steel components in this area uses PU (polyurethane)
The fight against corrosion can be especially challenging
or epoxy resin. But, Sagebiel said, there is an attractive alterna-
when environmental restrictions add to the complexity of the
tive: “High-strength copper-nickel alloys have been widely used
task, as Horst Winterhoff from the German utility company
for their excellent resistance to seawater corrosion, their high
RWE Dea showed in his report about the Mittelplate Drilling
inherent resistance to biofouling, and good fabricability.”
and Production Island. Located in a national park, the facility
One of the first major anticorrosion applications of the
has to meet stringent environmental requirements. The pro-
copper-nickel alloy CuNi 90/10 in tidal and splash zones were
duction platform is protected by sheet piling. The structure reenergıze
Photos: RWE, KME
Photos: XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Challenge. The fight against
corrosion is a complex issue:
Located in a national park,
the Mittelplate Drilling and
Production Island has to meet
stringent environmental
requirements.
sembles a steel tub, its design preventing both the ingress of
abandoned because the equipment was too bulky; and etch-
seawater and the escape of oil or dirt. “Many aspects of the
ing proved to be too time consuming. In the end, the tradi-
project were developed specifically to meet the requirements
tional derusting method of hammering and needling turned
of this ecologically sensitive area,” Mr Winterhoff explained.
out to be most effective.
“Repair works on site are a challenge,” Mr Winterhoff con-
The Never-Ending War Against Rust
firmed. “Therefore it is essential to give due consideration to
Corrosion-damaged surfaces of the steel superstructure are
corrosion protection during the early planning stages of any
regularly mended. Loose rust and blisters are removed using
project.” For example, bimetal corrosion can be avoided by
needle hammers, then the affected areas are sanded and
selecting appropriate materials or by integrating other pro-
spot-repaired. Due to the exposure to salt, surfaces must
tective measures at the design stage. Covering special areas
be washed with fresh water before being worked on. When
with suitable materials can prevent flash corrosion. “Due to
finished, the repaired surfaces resemble a patchwork. This
the remote location, ongoing work cannot be monitored con-
makes it easier to track the quality of the repair works done,
tinuously. To ensure efficient corrosion protection you need an
and to detect recurring corrosion in places still under war-
experienced and reliable team familiar with the unique condi-
ranty.
tions in the offshore environment.”
nl
Currently, works are underway to remove the entire tarbased coating of the sheet piles. Blasting off the old coating
was not an option for environmental reasons. The design of
GL Noble Denton Expert:
the platform and the rough weather conditions did not allow
Johann Taferner
the scaffolding to be covered by protective plastic sheeting. A
method using electrical induction to remove the coating was
01/2009
Plants and Pipelines
Phone: +49 40 36149-7739
E-Mail: johnann.taferner@gl-group.com
13
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g u l t r a - d e e p w a t e r research
Advances in
Mooring Systems
Evaluating the reliability of deepwater mooring lines is critical before floating
systems can be deployed with confidence. An analytical truncation procedure
allows a rapid assessment of line dynamics and opens up new possibilities for
model testing
Simulation.
GL Noble Denton is
funding a research
programme at the
University of
Cambridge to
consider effective
modelling for
ultra-deepwater
mooring and riser
developments in
the oil and gas
industry.
14
energıze
The move by the exploration and production
es in such complex systems. Research currently being car-
sector toward working in water depths greater
ried out by the University of Cambridge and supported by GL
than 1,500 m creates significant challenges for
Noble Denton is further addressing this issue, with the aim of
the integrated modelling of deepwater systems, the floaters,
developing line truncation techniques for use in both compu-
moorings and risers. Ensuring the reliability of such lines is
tational (time and frequency domain) and physical models. As
critical and is normally achieved by efficiently combining com-
described in the following, the adopted approach exploits a
putational models and model testing.
number of physical features of the system dynamics.
In the case of numerical simulations, the complete system dynamics are highly coupled and nonlinear, with simul-
View on Upper Sections
taneous responses at different time scales. For this reason
Firstly, the wave action zone typically extends to around 40 m
the governing equations of motion are normally solved in the
below the water surface. Below this point, the lines can be
time domain, which is computationally intensive. For physi-
considered to be oscillating in still water (or in a current),
cal model tests it is impossible to produce a scale model that
driven by a dynamic top motion. Secondly, the transverse
accurately captures all aspects of the system, given the re-
elastic waves induced in the line by the
stricted water depth of testing tanks worldwide and the lack
top motion decay with depth due to the
of environmental control in fjords and lakes.
action of non-linear fluid drag forces.
Software Developments
tic waves are likely to decay before they
In deep water, the transverse elas-
abstract
In deepwater drilling, the forces
acting on the long mooring lines
and risers are a major challenge.
T he length of the lines renders
model testing near-impossible.
These difficulties have driven a significant research effort over
are reflected from the seabed, and in this
recent years, and a significant degree of progress has been
case the line can be considered to be ef-
made. The drive to improve numerical efficiency has led to a
fectively infinite, at least with regard to
number of recent developments in commercial software. In
the transverse dynamic response. It fol-
particular, the use of a linearised frequency domain analysis
lows from these arguments that there is no need to model the
can offer a reduction in computational cost of up to two orders
detailed dynamics of the whole line. Rather it is feasible that
of magnitude, although a fully coupled time domain analysis
only the upper sections of each line require detailed model-
A new study aims to simplify
mooring analysis through line
truncation techniques.
may still be necessary to check critical design cases and
ling, terminating in an approximate analytical model that aims
benchmark the more approximate frequency domain method.
to simulate the remainder of the line.
With regard to model tests, one approach to the limited
A preliminary study of this approach has considered a taut
depth problem has been to truncate the lines and employ ei-
string model of a mooring line, in which non-linear damping
ther a passive or active system to simulate the remainder of
has been included, but bending and VIV effects have been ne-
the lines. This approach has been studied on one phase of
glected. The line is considered to be anchored at the seabed,
the DeepStar joint industry research project, particularly in
and the top end is given either a harmonic or random displace-
understanding detailed effects of individual physical process-
ment, representing the displacement at the bottom of the
01/2010
15
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g u l t r a - d e e p w a t e r research
wave action zone (Fig. 1). The principal item of interest
by a parameter referred to as l50. This is the distance down the
line (measured from the top) at which the vibration amplitude
is half the input amplitude.
Photo: Woodside
is the decay of vibration along the line, and this is measured
Universal Curve
This parameter is very useful in deciding whether a truncated
line model is appropriate, and if so, at which point truncation
might be applied. It might initially be thought that the calculation of l 50 would need to be performed for each mooring line
VIV.
Vortex-induced
vibrations are
motions induced on
bodies facing an
external flow by
periodical irregularities on this flow.
of interest and for each possible type of top motion.
However, a dimensional analysis, supported by exact benchmark numerical solutions, has shown that
it is possible to produce a “universal” curve for l 50
which is suitable for any kind of line with any top
string vibrations.
To be more precise, two such universal curves
arise, one for the case of a harmonic top motion (Fig. 2), and
case it has been found that predictions yielded by the curve
one for the case of a random top motion (Fig. 3). For the har-
are highly accurate for the type of top input spectrum likely to
monic case the horizontal axis involves a parameter , the
be found in practice. In this case the non-dimensional axes are
non-dimensional ratio of drag to inertia forces; where F D is
defined by similar parameters, however substituting in for , k0
the damping coefficient as described by the drag term from
and A 0; with
Morison’s Equation, A 0 is the top end amplitude and M is the
number and
dry mass plus added mass per unit length of line.
The vertical axis is a non-dimensional version of l50, giv-
16
Figure 1. Damped
motion.
2
, being the mean frequency, k 2, the mean wave
the standard deviation of the top motion.
Two Strategies
en by the product of l 50 and the undamped wave number of a
In a water depth of 3,000 m, a mooring line typical for a taut
string, k0, which is defined as forcing frequency,
over elastic
configuration deepwater system has an l 50 with order of mag-
wave speed, c. The value of l 50 for any particular line can be
nitude 300 m for chain; less for rope. As such the transverse
read from this curve; typical “beta” ranges for chains and ropes
dynamics would decay significantly by the seabed; therefore
are shown on the graph. Strictly speaking, the universal curve
the rationale for seeking a truncation procedure is verified and
is rigorous and universal for the harmonic case, and approxi-
an infinite analytical approximation is feasible. Ongoing work
mately so for the random case. However, even in the random
is considering ways to produce a truncated model. It would
energıze
FPSO. The vessel must be anchored reliably.
Both, turret and spread moored systems
are used depending on directionality of
the environment.
Figure 2. Universal curve for harmonic vibrations.
Figure 3. Universal curve for random vibrations.
start below the wave action zone consisting of a semi-infinite
sections using the type of model developed for the computa-
line, coupled to the end of the detailed model. Seeking an
tional work. The second will use dynamic similitude to develop
analytical description necessitates first a linearization of the
a passive shallow water line that has the same vibrational
drag force using a least-squares Borgman approximation. The
characteristics as the full line.
length scale l 50 is a useful means to compare the accuracy of
These theories, if tested successfully, have the potential to
the different solution procedures. It is found that a linearised
make fundamental advances in model testing of ultra-deepwa-
numerical solution matches very closely the exact benchmark.
ter concepts and in improving the efficiency of computational
Using then a frequency domain analysis, such an approximate
models.
AA/RSL/RVA
description can be implemented in a computational model.
Conjointly the truncated segment of the line, represented
AUTHORS A. Argyros and R.S. Langley, University of Cambridge, UK, and R.V. Ahilan, Noble
Denton. This article previously appeared in “Scandinavian Oil & Gas”.
accurately by a dynamic boundary condition, can improve the
computational efficiency of a numerical time domain simula-
GL Noble Denton Expert:
tion.This can subsequently be applied to physical modelling.
R.V. Ahilan, Managing Director
In the current study two strategies will be considered. The
first will use actuators to replicate the behaviour of the lower
01/2010
Advanced Engineering Consulting GL Noble Denton
Phone: +44 20 78128713
E-Mail: ahilan@nobledenton.com
17
ad v a n c e d e n g i ne e r i n g p ro d u cti o n
The Peak Oil Mystery
Tens of millions of barrels of oil are produced and consumed every day. The balance
between supply and demand underlying this gigantic industry is surprisingly
delicate. For now, it seems to be favouring the supply side – but for how long?
1973
Yom Kippur War
1st oil crisis
1970
World oil
supply at
48.941 Million
barrels/day
Climate change, geopolitics and human ambition
tion will hit its all-time maximum before beginning a slow but
are all factors in one of the great debates of
steady decline while demand continues to rise.
our time – when will the world run out of oil?
Or, more to the point: when will the demand for fossil fuels
A Matter of Interpretation
exceed the supply?
The concept we refer to as peak oil today first emerged in
During the late 1930s, U.S. geologists warned that the
PEAK OIL
CONCEPT.
Based on oil production
statistics of individual
oil wells as well as
entire oil fields.
18
1979
Iranian
Revolution
2nd oil crisis
the 1950s when M. King Hubbert, an American geologist
country’s oil reserves would be exhausted within 30 years.
working for Shell Oil, pointed out that the world’s oil re-
Today, some 70 years later, the world consumes
serves are finite, and that the rate of discovery, following
around 85 million barrels of oil each day (bpd),
an exponential increase, will eventually reach a climax and
with reserves for decades still underground. So
then decline.
much for past prophecies of doom.
But just how long the earth’s remaining oil
The actual term peak oil was first used in 2001 by former
Royal Dutch/Shell geologist Colin Campbell in a newsletter for
reserves will last remains the subject of heated
the newly-founded Association for the Study of Peak Oil and
discussion. A key term this debate revolves around is “peak
Gas, and was quickly picked up by the media. There are two
oil” – the point in time at which the global oil and gas produc-
opposing factions in the peak oil debate. They differ in their
energıze
Photo: Statoil
1997
Asian financial
crisis
Uncertain future. While worldwide energy demand continues to climb, the global oil and gas production peak is nearing.
interpretation of the available data. Critics of the Peak Oil
tional oil will peak in 2020 if oil demand grows on a busi-
theory believe the global oil and gas reserves are sufficient
ness-as-usual basis.” According to the IEA, conventional oil
to sustain industrialised and developing economies for over
(as opposed to hard-to-extract sources
a century. They claim that countries such as Russia, Saudi
like Canada’s tar sands) is “projected
Arabia and Iraq are under-explored, sitting on billions of
to reach a plateau sometime before
barrels of untapped resources. Sceptics contend that the
2030”.
accessible oil reserves will be depleted soon, and neither
Based on an analysis of histori-
new technologies nor alternative energy sources will be able
cal production data from 800 oilfields,
to satisfy the energy demand. They predict huge economic
the IEA recently concluded that the
and social upheavals.
decline in annual output from mature
The Search Continues
2030. “Even if oil demand were to re-
ABSTRACT
The world’s petroleum reserves are
limited. The big question is, where
is the limit?
Some experts say there is enough
oil and gas for well over a century.
Others forecast the oil production
peak within the next few years or
decades.
fields could average 8.6 per cent in
Fatih Birol, chief economist of the influential Paris-based
main flat, the world would need to find more than 40 million
International Energy Agency (IEA), believes that unless
bpd of new capacity – equal to four new Saudi Arabias –
major new discoveries are made, “the output of conven-
just to offset this decline,” says Mr Birol.
01/2010
19
2009
World oil
supply at
84.159 Million
barrels/day
ad v a n c e d e n g i ne e r i n g p ro d u cti o n
2000
dot-com
bubble burst
Thoughts From Davos
During the 2010 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland
compared to 105 million barrels per day if no action is taken.
Thierry Desmarest, chairman of the French oil major company
That, the IEA’s Birol says, “could push back the peak of pro-
Total, said oil production will never exceed 95 million bpd. “Peak
duction, as it would take longer to produce the lower-cost oil
oil is still a problem; it will be reached in about 10 years, but
that remains to be developed.”
OUTLOOK.
IEA statistics
predict the decline
in output at
existing fields to
drop by almost
two-thirds by 2030.
not today.” But Khalid Al Falih, president of Saudi Arabian Oil
Peter Davies, former chief economist of BP, believes
Co. (Aramco), disagrees, saying that fears over future supplies
glob al oil production could peak within the next generation
are overstated: “There is too much rhetoric in the
as a result of a drop in demand induced by climate policies,
public domain about moving away from oil... This
rather than by a supply peak.
issue of peak oil has been pushed behind. There
So the Peak Oil question remains wide open. Yet, as the
debate continues, there can be no doubt that the age of easy
are plenty of resources out there.”
and cheap oil will come to an end before long; hopefully it will
So What About Climate Change?
be a gradual and measured decline.
BM
The topic of climate change as reflected in the
Copenhagen talks of early 2010 plays a major role in the
GL NOBLE DENTON EXPERT:
peak-oil debate. The IEA believes that coordinated efforts
Lutz Wittenberg
Executive Vice President, Europe
to limit the global temperature increase to 2 ºC will cut the
Phone: +49 40 36149-313
worldwide oil demand to 89 million barrels per day in 2030,
E-Mail: lutz.wittenberg@gl-group.com
Nothing Lasts Forever
The
resources become too challenging to extract or too ex-
exploitation of natural resources by man, begun centu-
pensive, or are replaced by something cheaper, better or
ries ago, evolves in a bell-shaped curve, with the rate of
more plentiful.
THE THEORY OF PEAKING IS A SIMPLE CONCEPT.
extraction increasing over time. It will eventually reach
20
OIL PRODUCTION IS EXPECTED TO GO INTO DE-
a peak, followed by a period of gradual decline until the
CLINE
natural resources have been depleted.
tive fields are nearing depletion while new discoveries are
from around 2012 as the biggest and most produc-
PEAK OIL IS NOT ABOUT “RUNNING OUT OF OIL” ,
generally recorded as being progressively smaller and of
rather, the term denotes the point in time where oil pro-
lower quality. Discovery of new oil peaked over 40 years
duction reaches its all-time maximum. The peak in the
ago and has been declining ever since, despite extensive
supply of base commodities is usually reached when the
drilling activities and high prices.
energıze
advanc e d e n g i n e e r i n g g a s i f i c a t i o n
Volatile Coal
Today’s approaches of gasification are
high-tech – making this technology ideal
for countries with rich coal deposits
Between 1945 and the mid-1950s, motor vehicles powered by wood gasifiers were a common
the basic principle hasn’t changed, the smoking gasifiers of
the old days are now being replaced by highly sophisticated,
high-tech systems. The basic fuel is no longer wood or or-
Photo: iStockphoto
sight on Europe’s streets. Producing gas to generate useful energy has once again moved into focus. While
ganic waste but coal. In recent decades, scientists and engi-
Demand. The gas produced in the gasification process can
neers have developed numerous methods of turning coal into
also be used for many chemical applications.
gas. The raw gas produced can be purified and used directly
as a fuel for generating electricity or as a raw material for
chemical processes.
High Efficiency, Low Environmental Impact
na,” Pritchard explains. “We are technical consultants for the
project.” The plant will produce electricity and capture carbon
dioxide, an option that will boost further development of the
technology in the USA. A demonstration
GL Noble Denton is joint licensor with the German company
plant operated in China in 2006/2007,
Envirotherm of the BGL Gasification Technology. “The proc-
and two large scale plants are currently
ess is highly efficient – it converts nearly 94 per cent of the
under construction.
energy content of coal into useable gas,” says Mike Pritchard,
The technology is especially attrac-
gasification expert at GL Noble Denton. The German-British
tive for countries that are rich in coal
cooperation in the BGL process has a long tradition. The
but poor in natural gas reserves. It will
abstract
oal gasification methods
C
are experiencing a revival.
L Noble Denton has the
G
expertise to model various
gasification processes for
use in power plants.
process is the result of a joint research programme launched
be used primarily by the chemical industry to provide feed
in the 1970s by British Gas and Lurgi GmbH in response to
gas for processes such as methanol synthesis, rather than
the crisis on the oil market at the time.
for generating power. GL Noble Denton not only has tech-
The development project produced a gasifier only 120
nology of its own, it also has the expertise to model vari-
cm in diameter, yet capable of processing 200 tonnes of coal
ous gasification processes and to evaluate their compara-
per day. This delivered proof that a combined gas and steam
tive efficiency.
JI
turbine power plant with integrated coal gasification can be
operated very flexibly and economically. This result can be
GL noble denton Expert:
put to use immediately: “The BGL technology has been pro-
Dr Michael Pritchard
posed for a coal gasification plant in North Dakota/USA, India
and China with discussions ongoing for further plants in Chi01/2010
Head of Gasification
Phone: + 44 1509 282452
E-Mail: michael.pritchard@gl-group.com
21
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g s a f e t y
The Human Factor
Do we control technology, or does it control us?
Human Factors Engineering helps improve the interaction between humans
and machines to prevent catastrophic accidents
The offshore oil and gas industry is continuously
Unfortunately, HFE has traditionally not received the
striving to make the offshore environment a safer
same practical emphasis as industrial engineering and oc-
place to work. Most serious offshore accidents (a
cupational medicine. However, considering the advancement
generally accepted figure is 80%) have been primarily attribut-
of technology in the 20th and 21st centuries, all reasonable
ed to “human error”. Detailed investigations, however, indicate
efforts to mitigate the risks inherent in this technology should
that human errors are most often caused by a mismatch be-
be given the same emphasis.
tween human and machine behaviour. The “human factor” thus
needs to be given much more serious consideration to avoid
accidents. The offshore industry has begun to acknowledge
It is considered the “duty” of HFE to question engineering
the role that Human Factors Engineering can play in the design
concepts. Wherever a task is designed, all requirements, in-
of offshore facilities.
abstract
Human factors need to be
given much more serious
consideration.
22
Complex Technical Systems
cluding those relating to human performance, must be ac-
Human Factors Engineer-
counted for. In operator training programmes intended to
ing (HFE) addresses the need
minimize risk, the underlying assumptions and procedures
for an effective interaction be-
must be challenged. Detailed investigations of serious large-
tween humans, the technology
scale industrial accidents – such as Three Mile Island, Bho-
Noble Denton offers services
GL
such as human error identification and analysis using accepted
methodologies.
they use and the environment in
pal, Chernobyl and Piper Alpha – have shown that so-called
which both must operate (human-
“human error” needs to be viewed in the wider context of the
Noble Denton develops guidGL
ance documents/specifications for
various HFE and HSE activities.
machine-environment, or “ergo-
circumstances created by organisational and management
system”). HFE also ensures that
structures.
all factors that can influence hu-
HFE recognises that the causes of errors and accidents
mans and their behaviour (work-
are usually to be found in the way the engineered and human
place organization, physical work environment, workspace
systems fit together and interact. It promotes an approach
design, job factors and individual characteristics) are taken
in the design of systems and equipment that minimises the
into account to create beneficial and efficient working con-
potential for human error. This is particularly important in to-
ditions, thus reducing the potential for human error whilst
day’s complex and large-scale technological systems that
improving safety and overall system performance.
confront human operators with new demands. On many ocenergıze
Safety. Optimising the
performance and effecPhoto: BP
tiveness of the working
system, including the
human element.
casions, the error and resultant failures can be attributed to
factors such as:
complicated operational processes
performance factors in its efforts to mitigate the risks to peo-
ineffective training
ple and assets in the offshore environment.
non-responsive managerial systems
non-adaptive organizational designs
01/2010
It is obvious that it would be irresponsible for the offshore
oil and gas industry not to give due consideration to human
Understanding Human Nature
haphazard response systems and
With all this in mind, GL Noble Denton has expanded its
sudden environmental
Safety and Risk services to include Human Factors Engineer-
disturbances.
ing. The company’s expertise in this field covers many
23
ad v a n c e d e n g i n e e r i n g s a f e t y
different industry sectors and is
transferable to any domain. GL Noble
Denton’s head HFE specialist has over
13 years experience in Human Factors
Engineering and Ergonomics. GL offers a diverse range of HFE services
to the oil and gas industry:
I ntegration of HFE into traditional safety cases
– Dur-
ing the formal safety assessment,
GL Noble Denton accounts for
human factors to ensure that operators can handle “non-design”
emergencies.
H FE hazard analysis and
– In the in-
itial stages of a project cycle for
a new facility, GL Noble Denton
determines where HFE could add
value by improving human efficien-
Photo: iStockphoto
screening studies
cy or reliability and/or by reducing
HSE risk during maintenance and
operational tasks. The result is an HFE Issue Register.
H FE Implementation Plans
persons who will operate and maintain the equipment have
tional structure, responsibilities, scope of work, schedule
been accounted for.
and integration plan within the engineering project organi-
Assistance with EPC contractor selection and
zation.
awards
– Ensures that bidding EPC contractors include
– Aids for the design of hardware
in the bid packages their own HFE Plan (HFEP) describ-
and software that provide quick and easy access to project-
ing the scope of HFE measures, the deliverables and other
HFE Design Standards
specific criteria for certain HFE design requirements.
relevant details. GL Noble Denton will help in the assess-
F ront-End Human Factors Engineering Analyses
ment of the HFE information presented in the bid packages.
(FEHFEA)
24
– Define the HFE organisa-
and to verify whether the capabilities and limitations of the
– A high-level task analysis performed early on
H FE Awareness Training
– Specific HFE training for all
during FEED to “think through” the activity sequences a
technical personnel involved in detailed design work before
person would need to go through to use the equipment
the actual detailed design begins.
energıze
Accuracy. When handling safety-critical
equipment, every movement by the
operator must be well controlled.
H FE Specialist Studies
– Valve Analysis Studies, Skid-
fications and standards, and assistance in incorporating
packaged Unit Analysis and Control Room Studies assess-
improvements to the package.
ing these items in terms of HFE criteria.
H FE Inspections
GL Noble Denton HFE Consultants can audit compliance
D etailed control system interface
with HFE design requirements.
design/modifications:
Workload analysis:
– For details not included on drawings,
Determines optimal staffing
Support during the installation
quirements.
(normal, degraded and emergency).
Review of the alarm management system :
Alarm
systems are often a contributing factor in accidents.
H uman Error Analysis Studies
of “field run” equip-
ment – Ensures compliance with project HFE design re-
numbers over all shifts and covers all operating modes
I nput into critical operating procedures, operations and maintenance documentation
– Identify potential op-
erator errors during human-machine interaction in complex
– Serves
to identify potential human error during critical operations
as a result of poorly written operating procedures.
systems, such as control room monitoring.
3 D model design reviews
– Ensure efficient mainte-
nance of equipment, safe movement of staff and equip-
Man as a risk factor will never be eliminated entirely but
needs to be managed professionally.
KJ
ment, sufficient clearances, safe access to critical items,
adequate pathways and egresses for escape, evacuation
GL Noble Denton Expert:
and rescue, and other items.
Karen Jacka
Review of vendor packages
– Review of proposed de-
signs for compliance with project HFE requirements, speci-
Principle Consultant Human Factors Engineering
Phone: +603 21 61 00 88
E-Mail: karen-louise.jacka@gl-group.com
Minor Defect, Major Accident
Chernobyl 1986
– the worst nuclear power plant disaster in history. 56 direct deaths were
recorded, but it is estimated that there were 4,000 additional cancer deaths. The incident re-
Accident.
The Chernobyl
nuclear power
plant.
sulted in the evacuation of 336,000 people. Investigations indicated that besides inadequate
safety features, an unstable reactor design and lack of containment, operators were insufficiently trained, there was a lack of communication
about the emergency
core cooling test that was being performed, and at the time of the incident all control had been
transferred from the process computer to inadequately trained operators.
01/2010
25
marine
operations
Photo: iStockphoto
oi li at
as
& r igdaesn tm
c oenr gs ue lrt i n g
26
energıze
GL Noble Denton leads the
way in the field of marine
consulting and operations.
Working on behalf of
insurance underwriters, our
expertise in marine warranty
and consulting can provide
exemplary independent
assessment.
01/2010
27
marine operations guidelines
Following in
Captain Noble’s Footsteps
Transporting and operating huge, awkwardly shaped structures in rough seas involves risks that can only be mitigated by adhering to rigorous codes and stan­d ards.
With a new update of key rules, GL Noble Denton stays abreast of technology
When a Marine Warranty Surveyor (MWS) con-
For innovative projects, setting standards may require
ducts an approval process for an operation on
comparisons with similar past operations, making allowances
behalf of insurance underwriters, he usually
for differences in scale and scope. In the early days of North
verifies compliance with “industry best practice”. The specific
Sea development (1960s and 1970s) this usually meant early
requirements must be clear at the tender and early design
discussions between the MWS, designers and contractors to
stages of a project so that the implications can be allowed
agree on design criteria and associated operating limits for
for and priced. Changing a design at a later stage is much
critical operations. These criteria often had to be developed
more expensive.
For well established operations, approval may require
comparison with industry codes of practice, such as IMO,
API codes or classification sociabstract
ety rules. However, many of these
M any codes merely represent the
codes are developed by indus-
most basic requirements. GL Noble
Denton wrote guidelines with
specific added variations.
acceptable to underwriters who
T he very first general guideline was
are interested in stricter rules to
released in 1976.
G
L Noble Denton operates a
helpline to assist clients in finding
or interpreting criteria.
try “consensus”. This may not be
reduce the loss rate. GL Noble
Denton may use these codes as
a basis for writing its own guidelines with specific variations add-
ed. This approach has been taken in 0009/ND “Self Elevating
Platforms – Guidelines for Elevated Operations”, which refers
to SNAME T&R 5-5A.
Offshore. Many assessments are based on GL
Noble Denton's Technical
Guidelines.
28
energıze
Photo: Swinsto101
Condeep.
Specific recommendations for
construction,
towage and
installation
gan and he was asked by marine underwriters to help reduce
the industry’s loss rate of jack-up drilling rigs when moving.
Initially as high as 13 per cent p.a., this rate is now down to
about 0.07 per cent (1 total loss in the 1,400 operating rigyears from 2006 to 2009).
were trans-
Drawing on his personal experience towing dredgers,
formed into
general guide-
scrap vessels and other unusual objects, Capt. Noble would
lines.
write recommendations for each tow once he had studied its
challenges. Many of the criteria he developed empirically are
still in use as industry standards today, if with slight modifications. He also insisted on damage stability, something that
using model testing since even the best computer simulations
were very unreliable. In particular it was, and still is, impor-
was considered as normal for ships but not for jack-ups.
In 1976, Noble Denton in London began amalgamating
these specific recommendations into general guidelines. The
tant to learn from past mistakes or near misses.
very first guideline addressed the construction, towage and
Pioneering Safety
installation of concrete gravity platforms, drawing on expe-
Much of GL Noble Denton’s present work originated with
rience gathered with the Norwegian Ekofisk tank and early
Capt. Noble in the early 1960s when North Sea drilling be-
Condeeps, as well as the Scottish Seatank units. This
GL Noble Denton Technical Guidelines
revised and reissued in March 2010
0009/ND Rev 5 (31 March 2010) –
0013/ND Rev 5 (31 March 2010) –
draft structures where much of the con-
Self-Elevating Platforms – Guide-
Guidelines for Loadouts
struction work is carried out afloat, as well
lines for Elevated Operations
These guidelines were developed for the
as to shallower draft structures where the
These guidelines are used by GL Noble
loadout of items including offshore jack-
construction of the GBS can be essentially
Denton for the assessment of self-ele-
ets, SPAR sections, modules, bridges and
completed in dry dock.
vating platforms in the elevated condition.
components from the shore onto floating
They address:
or grounded barges and ships.
g eneral feasibility studies, including
optional checks for punch-through
provals of Mobile Offshore Units
resistance and fatigue; such studies
crete Offshore Gravity Structures
These guidelines describe the seabed and
may result in a Statement of Compli-
These guidelines were developed by GL
sub-seabed data required by GL Noble
Noble Denton for the marine aspects of
Denton to assess the suitability of loca-
construction, towage and installation of
tions for self-elevating (jack-up) platforms,
such studies may result in a Certifi-
offshore concrete Gravity Base Structures
anchor installation and performance as-
cate of Approval.
(GBS) with a deck. They apply to deep
sessments.
ance
Photo: Dragonoil
bed and Sub-seabed Data for Ap0015/ND Rev 2 (31 March 2010) – Con-
a ssessment for specific locations;
01/2010
0016/ND Rev 5 (31 March 2010) – Sea-
29
marine operations guidelines
guideline has since been developed into 0015/ND.
es. These activities support the constant efforts of GL Noble
The next guidelines focussed on marine heavy lifts (1977).
Denton to update guidelines, procedures or other guidance.
Lifting criteria were adapted from those used in the more be-
Instead of writing “one-size-fits-all” rules, GL Noble Den-
nign environment prevailing in the Gulf of Mexico. The latest
ton has always tried to be flexible and responsive, combining
version, 0027/ND, has been revised extensively to account for
specific goals with practical marine and engineering advice on
increased crane capacities and expanded operat-
how to achieve them, and often giving alternative ways of do-
TPB.
The Technical
Policy Board
commissions and
authorises all
technical guidelines, internal
procedures and
guidance notes.
ing practices. It also supports an extended range
ing so. Engaging in an active dialogue with clients, GL Noble
of equipment.
Denton keeps an open mind for alternative ways of achieving
Going Global
cally to reflect the lessons learned.
an acceptable level of risk, and updates its guidelines periodibj
Since then, GL Noble Denton gradually developed its TPB. The board now includes 15 world-
GL Noble Denton Experts:
wide Technical Authorities, assisted by over 60
Mike Hoyle
Technical Policy Board Chairman
Phone: +44 20 7812 8788
E-Mail: mike.hoyle@nobledenton.com
Technical Correspondents who contribute their expertise and
knowledge acquired in different areas of the world.
The TPB operates an internal technical helpline to assist clients in finding or interpreting criteria, or in complying
with them. It also reviews reports of accidents and near miss-
0021/ND Rev 8 (31 March 2010)
Bob Jack
Technical Policy Board Secretary
E-Mail: bob.jack@nobledenton.com
0028/ND Rev 4 (31 March 2010) –
These guidelines are not intended to ap-
Guidelines for the Transportation
ply to “standard” cargo such as bulk liq-
Towing Vessels
and Installation of Steel Jackets
uids, bulk solids, refrigerated cargo, vehi-
These guidelines are intended to lead to
This repor t sets out guidelines for the
cles or containers.
an approval by GL Noble Denton for en-
approval of the transpor tation and in-
try into the Towing Vessel Approvability
stallation of steel offshore jacket struc-
Upcoming
Scheme. They also provide guidance for
tures.
0029/ND Guidelines for
– Guidelines for the Approval of
the approval of towing vessels for specif-
Pipeline Installation
ic tow and bollard pull tests. They do not
0030/NDI Rev 4 (31 March 2010) –
0031/ND Guidelines for
cover the towage of specific vessels or
Guideline for Marine
Float-over Installations
barges, guidance for which may be found
Transportation
0032/ND Guidelines for
in 0030/ND.
These guidelines are used by GL Noble
Moorings
Denton for the approval of specialised
0033/ND Guidelines for
0027/ND Rev 9 (31 March 2010) –
marine transports, including:
Installing Subsea Equipment
Guidelines for Marine Lifting
c argo on ships or towed barges
Operations
t owage of self-floating marine and
Provides guidelines for the design and ap-
oilfield equipment, civil engineering
proval of marine lifting operations.
structures and ships.
30
due 2010
due 2010
due 2010
due 2010
energıze
marine o p e r a t i o n s i n t e r v i e w
“We Can Do the Job Immediately”
Energize:
Wells:
David, what is “marine warranty”?
Marine warranty is a “third party” or in GL
terms a verification role, generally related to offshore
projects where we are appointed by underwriters to ensure that
Photo: Bruce Bennett
Starting from 1 January 2010, David Wells heads GL Noble Denton’s Global Business
Stream “Marine Consulting & Operations”
David Wells
(54) is a Master Mariner who has
served on various merchant ships including tankers,
cargo ships, and offshore vessels where he achieved
risks are kept within acceptable levels. Essentially, with offshore
his first command aged 27. In 1989, he joined
projects, we verify the engineering calculations and ensure that the
the Noble Denton Group as a Principal Surveyor in the
proposed installation procedures are adopted. So, for example, if
Abu Dhabi office. David subsequently specialised in
we are involved with a 1,000-tonne module lift, we want to make
jack-up rig-moving
sure that the contractor provides the right size of crane, the cor-
and India. In 1996 he became General Manager of the
rect rigging arrangement, that the lift points have sufficient capac-
Dubai office and was promoted to become Regional
ity, that the module itself has sufficient structural strength and that
Managing Director Middle East in 2007.
within the Middle East region
the contractor complies with the approved installation procedures.
Energize:
Who is interested in “marine warranty”?
Marine warranty requirements are driven by the terms and
services on some offshore oil export terminals. These generally
conditions of the project insurance policy. They stipulate the extent
involve bringing a ship onto a single point mooring (SPM) buoy,
of insurance coverage but require that certain high risk operations
where the cargo is loaded and then we take the ship off. We some-
within the project must be approved, i.e. are subject to these being
times provide pilots for putting new FPSOs onto location and in
david.wells@
“warranted” by a third party. The “warranty clause” stipulates both
hurricane zones, if a hurricane is forecast to come through, then
nobledenton.com
what operations need to be third-party approved and gives the as-
we have, on occasions, been involved in taking the vessel off their
sured options of certain named companies who can be retained as
moorings to a safe place and then to return back afterwards. We
Wells:
warranty surveyors. These critical operations generally cover load-
tend to look after the smaller operators or marginal fields on these
outs, towages, heavy lifts, pipeline beach pulls, etc. We act for most
occasions, where the operations are not big enough for our clients
reputable international insurance companies.
Energize:
You also do “marine operations”. That sounds like
hands-on first party-work!
Wells:
Yes, we offer our services to oil companies, contractors,
Phone:
+ 971 4 3317952
E-Mail:
to have their own dedicated marine department.
Energize: Why should the oil and gas industry commission you?
Wells:
The GL Noble Denton brand is strong in the market. It is
made up of well known companies which are staffed by experi-
or perhaps a shipowner, where we provide key people to super-
enced, capable and well respected individuals. We are a people
vise a particular operation or to actually do the operation generally
company and it is our people who provide our clients with the
working with the clients personnel or crew. Examples would be
quality of service that they seek. Our clients trust and respect
provision of a tow master to position and moor up a barge within
us and we pride ourselves on reliability. Our size helps, so there
an offshore field, or to undertake a rig move of a jack-up or semi-
is a reasonable chance that we will have people available at
submersible drilling rig or drillship. The latter might involve either
short notice. This is essential in the offshore industry where the
an ocean tow or an in-field move. We also provide ship’s pilotage
demands of day-to-day operations change very quickly.
01/2010
Contact.
snb
31
marine operations spadeadam
Pipe. Flexible risers
connect subsea structures with surface production units.
The use of full-scale testing can prove to be im-
rameters and so predict and protect against possible failures.
practical or prohibitively expensive, so it has be-
This cannot be done without a full understanding of the haz-
come standard practice to use computer model-
ards, the four principal stages being:
ling based on theoretical predictions, mathematic calculations
and laboratory scale experiments. Although this type of testing
and hazard prediction has its place, it is still important from
time to time to validate the predictions with full-scale testing.
This is particularly important in new research and the long
term development of theoretical modelling as many problems
involve physical or chemical processes which are scale dependant.
The purpose of the modelling and testing is to determine
the material, component, assembly or process operational pa32
the identification of possible failures through
experience or foresight
understanding the nature and mechanism of
the failure and its potential consequences
determining the probability and consequences
of a failure
establishing the means of preventing a failure
as well as limiting and protecting against the
consequences
Although the probability of a failure can be managed and
energıze
The Need for
Full-scale Testing
Computer modelling is the standard – but it is still important to validate the predictions
with full-scale testing. A case for GL Noble Denton’s Spadeadam test site
minimised by the use of modelling and testing, the combina-
Photo: iStockphoto
tion of a failure probability and its consequences must not
prehensive empirical test data.
A test sample is taken from the end of a production run and
give rise to an unacceptable risk. This can only be truly un-
fitted with standard production end fitting for use in a type test.
derstood by full-scale testing especially when working on new
This sample is then firstly subjected to a
technologies and processes where there is little or no exist-
normal hydrostatic test or FAT. Upon suc-
ing information. A good example of full-scale testing produc-
cessful completion of the FAT the same
ing unexpected results and identifying unanticipated potential
test sample is then taken through 10 pres-
hazards is that of a gas explosion in a congested area, as
sure cycles before finally being hydrostati-
conducted by Germanischer Lloyd at its Spadeadam test site
cally burst tested.
in Cumbria, UK. These full-scale tests resulted in an over-
For the FAT, the pipe is pressurised to
pressure substantially higher than that predicted by modelling.
the design pressure x 1.5 x 1.04 and held
Wellstream (see page 37) have developed a modelling
for a period of 24 hours. After successfully
abstract
F ailure probability can only be truly
understood by full-scale testing.
ellstream have developed a
W
modelling system called PipeMaker
to predict the burst pressure for a
given flexible pipe type.
They validate the results in the
Spadeadam test site.
to predict the burst pressure for a
completing the FAT, the same test sample is taken through 10
given flexible pipe type. They have used this successfully for
pressurization cycles to the working pressure of the pipe. The
a number of years and have now confirmed that the data from
pressurisation and depressurisation rates are controlled
system called PipeMaker
TM
testing at full-scale at Spadeadam is providing them with the
confidence that their model predictions remain valid for their
new range of flexible pipes.
Factory Acceptance Testing and Burst Testing
As part of their quality control system, Wellstream carry out
Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) on all production runs and
a burst test on a type test basis. This is to verify the quality
of the product plus to acquire data to verify their PipeMaker TM
software. The software is used to establish pipe mechanical
properties based on analytical formulae supported by com01/2010
Fountain. Underwater burst tests show weak spots.
33
marine operations spadeadam
Widget. GL Spadeadam has
installed a 10,000 kN dynamic tension – tension testing
rig for testing subsea pipes.
with a 10-minute hold period at the elevated pressure. As
soon as the final pressurisation cycle has been successfully com-
trolled via a PLC allowing pressurisation and depressurisation
rates to be pre-programmed into the system.
pleted the test sample enters into a hydrostatic burst test. Again
The test rig building was completed in 16 weeks from
the pressurisation rate is controlled but this time the pressure is
concept to commissioning including the design and manufac-
continually increased until a pipe failure is detected by the rapid
ture of the test rig itself. Within that time scale the site was
depressurisation of the test sample. After complet-
cleared with the construction of a roadway, parking together
ing the above tests the test sample is finally dis-
with a floating foundation allowing a further two rigs to be
Knowledge.
The team of
scientists and
engineers at
Spadeadam
possess a wealth
of experience in
carrying out
full-scale testing.
sected to verify the condition of the internal layers
built if required. The facility has been designed to enable the
post burst failure.
test samples to be installed through the roof of the building
with the entire operations run through a remote control room
Tensile Testing
over 60 m away. Wellstream are also able to monitor their
GL Spadeadam has recently installed a 10,000
tests from the comfort of their offices in Newcastle with all
kN dynamic tension - tension testing rig for testing subsea pipes and other equipment on behalf of Wellstream. The test rig is capable of housing pipes up to 24" in
diameter and 12 m in length. The tests are fully automated allowing for 600 mm of extension on the sample and in excess
of 2,000,000 cycles per test. A data acquisition system is set
up to record 130 instruments although this can be increased
if required.
Along with the dynamic tension - tension testing the facility can simultaneously hydrostatically pressurise or burst the
test sample with up to 60,000 psi. The test pressure is con-
34
Location. The facilities at the GL Spadeadam Test Site.
energıze
Wellstream: A Profile
Wellstream was founded in 1983 in Panama City, Florida (USA),
where they established themselves as a niche market manufacturer
supplying products to the global offshore oil and gas industry.
In 1995 Wellstream was acquired by Dresser Industries and began
the data and CCTV systems streamed live over the Internet.
Wellstream are developing new products to work in ever more
demanding environments where operating parameters such
as pressure, water depth, temperature and fluid characteristics become even more challenging. As these new designs
mature, the tailored facilities at the GL Spadeadam test site
are ideally placed to carry out the necessary development
and proof testing.
to emerge as a significant market player , securing the largest flexible pipe contract ever awarded to that date from Norsk Hydro in 1995 as part of the Troll Ojle and Gas development offshore
Norway. This was followed by the opening of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, in 1997.
Wellstream became a part of Halliburton in 1998, and continued
to improve its position with continued product development; Wellstream becoming the first company to qualify products to operate in
2,000-m water depth following many years of technical cooperation
Looking to the Future
The permanent team of scientists and engineers at Spadeadam
possess a wealth of experience in carrying out full-scale testing
and this knowledge along with the large investment in equipment
and services has provided GL Spadeadam with the infrastructure
with Petrobras in Brazil. In 2003 the company was acquired by Candover Investment Partners together with a management buy-in, this
led to the commercialization of FlexSteelTM onshore systems and
the decision to site a second manufacturing facility in Brazil, confirming Wellstream’s position as a world leader for these products.
to successfully complete full-scale testing for many of the major
oil and gas companies including Wellstream.
As technology and innovation moves forward, GL will con-
Offshore Products
Wellstream’s unbonded dynamic flexible risers and static
are a key integrating technology in connecting subsea
tinue to design and develop the means to test the resulting
flowlines
products on a full-scale basis. This will ensure that the haz-
structures with the surface. Working alongside installation compa-
ards and risks continue to be identified and managed suc-
nies, Wellstream ensures that its increasing product envelope fits
cessfully. The GL Spadeadam team are now investigating the
well with new offshore systems as they develop, including hybrid
feasibility of installing a larger tensile testing rig to compli-
riser systems. High pressure/high temperature products :
ment the range of tests required for subsea pipes and other
1,034 bar (15,000 psi)/54 ˚C (130 ˚F) are stock items for well servic-
equipment. The machine is to be rated to 16,000 kN capable
ing applications and deliverable worldwide. Their spoolable deploy-
of housing a 20 m test sample with the added features of
ment, improved pumping efficiency and longevity are ideal for the
torque measurement and application. The entire facility will
extreme operating environments of the drilling industry.
allow a pipe sample to be tested under tensile and torsional
loadings whilst being hydrostatically pressurised at elevated
Onshore Products
temperatures. This will capture data which will more accu-
FlexSteelTM
– Wellstream’s latest innovation, FlexSteelTM, chal-
rately represent the increasingly challenging operational con-
lenges the dominance of onshore rigid steel solutions. This product
ditions found in the field.
brings together the advantages of rigid and flexible pipe technolo-
db
gies. Major Canadian onshore operators have already adopted FlexGL Noble Denton Expert:
David Brown, General Manager
Spadeadam Test Site & GL Flow Centre
Phone: +44 1697 749138
SteelTM for fluid transfer and pipeline rehabilitation: its ease of
installation being just one advantage over other solutions in harsh
tundra conditions.
E-Mail: david.brown@gl-group.com
01/2010
35
marine operations dynamic positioning
Faster Than Ever
Floatover installations are the platform installation method of choice. Using DP for
high-precision navigation makes floatover installations much cheaper and faster
About 180 km north of Doha lies the Al Shaheen
Gudang, Malaysia, had to be transported 3,650 nm from the
oil field, Qatar’s largest offshore oil reservoir.
fabrication yard to the installation site. GL Noble Denton was
Under the Al Shaheen Field Development Plan,
contracted to perform the detailed engineering for the loadout,
Maersk Oil Qatar (MOQ) and Qatar Petroleum have been
jointly developing this field, applying cutting-edge technology to overcome geological challenges once believed insur-
transportation and floatover installation of both units.
New Record
In September and December 2009, respectively, the fully as-
mountable.
Among the 15 new platforms built under the plan are the
sembled BG and BE topsides, each weighing approximately
BE Process Platform and the BG Utilities Platform. Their top-
10,000 tonnes, were transported to the installation site on
sides, fabricated by Sime Darby Engineering (SDE) in Pasir
board the COSCOL semi-submersible heavy lift vessel “Tai
12:00
–
13:10
10:50
–
11:45
“Tai An Kou” starts approaching and eventually the docking guide enters the jacket.
36
“Tai An Kou” at final position and starts ballasting.
Undocking starts after completion of load transfer.
13:20
“Tai An Kou” exits from jacket after 2.5 hours
setting a new time record.
energıze
Transportation. The “Tai An Kou” shipped the topsides about 3,650 nm from Malaysia to the Al Shaheen oil field.
An Kou”. For the transportation phase, GL Noble Dentons’s
stallation had been determined, GL Noble Denton’s offshore
responsibilities included load-out engineering, vessel stabili-
teams worked closely with MOQ, SDE and the crew of the
ty and motion analyses as well as grillage, stability box and
“Tai An Kou” to ensure smooth installation
seafastening design. The self-propelled vessel required 14
operations.
days to arrive at the site, travelling at an average speed of 11
abstract
The “Tai An Kou” is equipped with a
Class II Dynamic Positioning (DP) system
knots.
In preparation of the floatover installation, GL Noble
which was used to precisely manoeuvre
Denton performed mating, ballasting and stability analyses
the vessel into the jacket slot and re-
as well as fendering and mooring design, and defined the
strain it during ballasting. The use of DP
offshore procedures. Once a suitable weather window for in-
removed the need for a costly conven-
L Noble Denton played a key
G
part in the loadout, transportation and floatover installations.
P reduces the time and
D
resources required to perform
floatover installations.
tional mooring spread, significantly reducing the time and resources required to perform the floatover, thereby minimising
the exposure to the environment.
Floatover Log
The DYNAMIC Positioning (DP) method
The BG topside was successfully installed on 13 October
2009. The entire operation, including vessel approach and
for floatover
exit, was completed within a record time of only 2.5 hours
installations, pioneered by GL Noble Denton, allows the
(refer to box) – an impressive demonstration of the power of
semi-submersible vessel carrying the topside to find its posi-
DP technology.
rp
tion inside the jacket without the help of expensive mooring
systems that take time to deploy onsite. The BG topside
was installed within a record time of only 2.5 hours using DP.
GL Noble Denton Expert:
The period of greatest risk, when the vessel is restrained
Richard Palmer
within the jacket slot, was limited to only 95 minutes.
Group Director, Transportation & Installation, GL Noble Denton
Phone: +44 20 7812 8748
E-Mail: richard.palmer@nobledenton.com
01/2010
37
software
solutıons
For over forty years, GL Noble Denton
has led the way in the use of advanced
software solutions to enhance operations.
We offer a comprehensive portfolio of
world-class software suites across the oil
and gas sector, which enhance the safety,
performance and integrity of assets
across their lifecycle.
38
Photo: iStockphoto
oi li at
as
& r igdaesn tm
c oenr gs ue lrt i n g
energıze
01/2010
39
so f t w a re s y n e r g e e
Refinery. GL Noble Denton offers a comprehensive portfolio of software solutions across the oil and gas sector.
Pipeline operators can now reduce two main
cost factors with GL Noble Denton’s new soft-
hydraulics in the pipeline and determines an optimum, also
ware product “SynerGEE Liquid Transmission”.
allowing for model calibration and simulation of what-if sce-
The two main cost factors in operating a pipeline are the
narios. “This development project was based on clear indus-
cost of drag-reducing agents (DRA) and the energy used to
try requirements and advanced through strong client engage-
pump the liquid. SynerGEE pro-
abstract
S ynerGEE optimises the operational
costs of transporting petroleum
products through a pipeline.
T he software allows users to view
past, present and future results of
the simulation.
40
Noble Denton. A steady state analysis engine simulates the
vides short-term operational cost
ment,” said Ms Young.
optimisation by optimizing flow
Information for Operational Planning
rate, pump station operation and/
SynerGEE’s user interface provides a schematic of the
or DRA concentration injection per
batches and the pipeline, allowing users to view past, present
batch at pump stations. “It is the
and future results of the simulation. Variables such as pres-
only product on the market that
sure, flow rate, power consumption and DRA injection rates
can optimize these variables simultaneously,” says Shelly
are selected by the user for display on the results screen.
Young, Vice President of Software Solutions Practice for GL
Time and distance charts can also be used to view the reenergıze
SynerGEE Affects Energy Costs
GL Noble Denton introduces new software technology to the oil & gas industry.
SynerGEE provides short-term operational cost optimisation at pump stations
sults. Standard reporting provides the information needed for
other major milestone in our delivery of software based solu-
operational planning, with set points and equipment change
tions that provide accurate, short term liquid pipeline opera-
strategies for upcoming hours of operation.
tions and planning optimization,” said Shelly Young. “Our vi-
Combining years of pipeline experience and expertise
sion is to develop innovative software solutions for our clients
that improve their asset and business performance. Syner-
Liquid Transmission optimizes the operational cost of trans-
GEE will highlight operating plans that result in energy and
porting petroleum products through a pipeline. “The introduc-
DRA savings that will positively impact the bottom line.” GL
tion of SynerGEE Liquid Transmission further complements
Noble Denton offers a comprehensive portfolio of software
our comprehensive suite of software products and marks an-
solutions across the oil and gas sector.
Photo: BP
with advanced mathematical modelling techniques, SynerGEE
Part of an Expanding Portfolio
SynerGEE Liquid Transmission is the latest addition to a product portfolio that addresses the engineering, operations and
data management requirements for simulation and asset integrity management for the pipeline and utility industries. Our
software solutions blend high fidelity analytics, sophisticated
mapping functionality and robust data management to provide
decision support to reduce opex, capex and manpower while
increasing the safety and reliability of assets.
Information. Pressure,
flow rate, power consumption and DRA
injection: the user can
select all relevant vari-
sy
GL Noble Denton Experts:
John Akujobi
Director, Business Development USA
Phone: +1 71 77 24 19 00
E-Mail: john.akujobi@gl-group.com
ables for display on the
results screen.
01/2010
John Scrivener
Business Development Manager outside of the U.S.
Phone: +44 7768 10 37 98
E-Mail: jon.scrivener@gl-group.com
41
so f t w a re a w a rd s
Burstfinder. The technology helps to
identify anomalies in water networks
Photo: iStockphoto
such as possible burst locations.
Better Leakage Detection
For their “Burstfinder” technology, the GL Group won the Pipeline Industries Guild
Award. It was given for significant contribution to utility pipeline technology
The prestigious Pipeline Industries Guild (PIG)
leakage, and other forms of unaccounted for water. GL has
Award was given to Germanischer Lloyd (GL) for
worked with many water utilities and contractors in the last 12
significant contribution to utility pipeline tech-
months with results demonstrating that a Burstfinder-enabled
nology for their Burstfinder technology at the 53rd annual
detection programme is up to four times more efficient than
awards ceremony in London.
traditional approaches
“Burstfinder” is GL’s leakage and demand location tech-
Antony Green, GL’s Vice President, Water, and Arthur
nique and is provided as a service to water utilities and leak-
Stoddart, GL Managing Director Midstream/Downstream UK,
age contractors to help identify “hotspots” of anomalies in wa-
accepted the PIG award on the night.
NS/SNB
ter networks such as non-revenue water, boundary breaches
and possible burst locations.
Up to Four Times More Efficient
The Burstfinder Technology has helped many water utility
companies to focus better on leakage detection and repair
activities, resolution of “problem” networks and location of
42
GL Noble Denton Expert:
Antony Green
Vice President Water
Phone: +44 1509 28 21 03
E-Mail: antony.green.@gl-group.com
energıze
Efficient Net
European Commission Award for the
Beywatch collaborative project
The collaborative European project “Beywatch”
has received the European Commission’s best
information and communication technology (ICT)
for energy efficiency project award. Beywatch was selected for
its contribution towards development of energy efficiency.
After a competition involving 39 EU-funded projects focusing on ICT for energy efficiency, Beywatch has been selected
international conference, organized in Brussels by the European Commission. The award is shared
abstract
with the OLED100.eu project. This com-
eywatch is developing
B
smart networking
petition, launched by the European Com-
Photo: iStockphoto
as the “best ICT4EE project” on the occasion of the ICT4EE
technology.
mission, is aimed at promoting innovation
O ne main objective is
in ICT that will contribute to substantial
power demand balancing.
and measurable improvements in energy
Beywatch is a European project aiming at information and
efficiency, and that have the potential to
communication technology for energy efficiency through ultra-
City. Substantial progres in energy efficiency.
provide visible and convincing showcases for investment by
low-power white goods, intelligent control of electrical devices
businesses, individuals or both.
in smart homes, hot water and electricity generation from re-
Intelligent Energy Control
newable energy sources, and enhanced consumer awareness
towards less CO 2 emissions. To achieve its objective and to
The Building Energy Watcher (Beywatch) project is develop-
support the European Commission’s proposals to save 20%
ing smart networking technology that will be able to provide
of the EU’s energy consumption through improved energy ef-
intelligent energy control and power demand balancing across
ficiency by 2020, Beywatch has established a consortium of
energy networks. The Beywatch project partners are GL Noble
eight key players in the field, including major service compa-
Denton, EDF, Fagor, Gorenje, Sigma Orionis, Synelixis, Tele-
nies, manufacturers, technology companies, universities as
fonica and the University of Palermo. GL Noble Denton’s team
well as small and medium sized enterprises.
has provided specialist support in the development of energy
www.beywatch.eu
ml
and network models that demonstrate the impact of new and
renewable technologies on future gas and electricity networks.
GL Noble Denton Expert:
GL Noble Denton is also making a contribution to the devel-
Ian Freeman
opment of networking technology that will allow future energy
appliances to optimise energy and cost savings.
01/2010
Manager, Commercial Systems
Phone: +44 1509 28 24 17
E-Mail: ian.freeman@gl-group.com
43
oi l &ugnadsxt xhxex xwxoxrxlxdx x x x x x x x x
aro
projects in brief
and Classification for Oil Platforms
russia In the Yuri Korchagin oil field in
the Russian sector of the North Caspian
Sea, GL Noble Denton assisted in the
transportation and installation of two
ice-resistant fixed offshore platforms.
The marine warranty experts, collaborating with Crane Marine Contractor
Ltd. (CMC), had been requested by
Lukoil to provide technical expertise for
the operation.
Platform LSP-1, built at the Astrakhansky Korabel shipyard in Kaliningrad, will be used to drill and operate
wells and to collect and pretreat reservoir content. It carries a 560-tonne rig
capable of drilling up to 7,400-metre
wells. LSP-1 will be equipped with
living quarters for up to 105 employ-
ees. LSP-2 accommodates the health
care area, service quarters, the galley,
pantry and a helipad. The two platforms will be joined by a 74.2-m bridge.
Upon completion in Astrakhan, the
platform modules were taken on barges from the Volga Delta seaport and
installed using CMC’s sheerleg crane.
LSP-1 was towed down the Volga Caspian Canal under the guidance of marine specialists from CMC and Noble
Denton.
Among the challenges the experts
tackled successfully were a draught
problem on the canal, low power lines,
and identifying overnight “parking”
locations during the tow. After installation, platform LSP-1 was connected
via a pipeline to a floating storage unit,
which in turn feeds the Transneft pipeline system.
Photo: NASA
Lukoil W
arranty
Barcelona
Amposta reservoir
Redevelopment. The Amposta reservoir
will become a back-up gas storage.
ACS Cobra G
as
Installation. Towing, aligning, joining:
GL Noble Denton provided engineering
support for the transport and installation of the ice-resistant offshore platform LSP-1 and its connection to the
service platform, LSP-2.
44
Storage Contract
spain In May 2009, Spanish ACS Cobra
Castor UTE contracted GL Noble Denton to
provide project management and support
services for an underground gas storage
development initiative. The project involves
the redevelopment of the abandoned Amposta reservoir as a back-up gas storage for
the Mediterranean coast of Spain during
periods of high gas demand.
The technical specification of the work
will comprise a wellhead platform bridge
linked to a production, utilities and quarters platform in approximately 60 m of
water. The platform will support gas injection into the reservoir at flow rates of up
to 8 MMSCMD and gas withdrawal and
transfer to shore at up to 25 MMSCMD.
energıze
Positioning – Major Floatover Project
malaysia The floatover method is an at-
tractive, relatively low-cost option for topside installation but poses a number of
technical and operational challenges. Dynamic Positioning (DP) is a leading-edge
navigation method allowing transport and
installation vessels to install topsides on
their supporting jackets without the use of
costly mooring systems.
The heaviest topside installations using
DP to date were performed in the northern
Gulf of Thailand’s Joint Development Area,
with GL Noble Denton providing all associated engineering and monitoring services
for load out, transport and installation of
the topside module.
The Bunga Orkid A topside for operator
Talisman Malaysia Limited weighed 13,300
tonnes, and was transported on board a
specialised semi-submersible HLV, one of a
small number of vessels capable of carrying
out floatover operations of this magnitude.
Noble Denton also advised Talisman and
Aker during the project pre-feed and feed
stages on installation issues, including vessel selection.
The project was successfully completed,
despite a number of challenges. The topsides were at the vessel limit for draught,
stability and strength. Furthermore, the
installation took place during the monsoon
season, so the time window was small.
Thanks to DP, the installation
was completed within an exceptionally short time span.
Platform.
Overhauls
of the entire
infrastructure.
Photo: Ali Badri
Talisman Malaysia Ltd. D
ynamic
Photo: Nepenthes
GUPCO A
sset
Abu Dhabi. The
new pipeline
will transport
crude oil to
Fujairah.
ADCOP I nspection
and Certification of a Crude Oil Pipeline
abu dhabi The Abu Dhabi Crude Oil
Pipeline (ADCOP) project is receiving
technical assurance and certification by
GL. The contract on technical assurance,
risk and safety, asset management and
industrial inspection was awarded by
China Petroleum Engineering and Construction Corporation (CPECC), the main
EPC contractor, and signed by Mr Hassan
Fahim, GL Noble Denton’s Country Manager United Arab Emirates, and Mr Liu
Xihui, CPECC Project Director. The 400 km
pipeline from Habshan in Abu Dhabi to
01/2010
the Main Oil Terminal (MOT) in Fujairah,
United Arab Emirates, will transport 1.0–
1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude
oil. It will develop a reliable export capability on the eastern seaboard of UAE,
which can accommodate larger vessels.
The project includes the construction of
12 million barrels of storage tanks in the
Main Oil Terminal facilities (MOT) in the
Emirate of Fujairah for crude exports.
Construction started earlier in 2008
and is scheduled to be completed by
August 2011.
Integrity
and Risks Assessment
Services
egypt In a mega project begun in 2005
and scheduled to be completed in 2011,
GUPCO, the Gulf of Suez Petroleum Company, has been overhauling its entire
infrastructure of platforms, pipelines and
other facilities.
GL Noble Denton Egypt has won a
major contract to provide inspection, assessment and other expert services associated with the rehabilitation of GUPCO oil
platforms in the Badri GS315, July 10, July
4 and Ramadan R6 complexes located in
the Gulf of Suez.
The engineers of GL Noble Denton
deliver procedures, examination schemes
and maintenance schedules and perform
extensive inspection and monitoring of
oil, water and gas risers, topside piping
and platform supply vessels (PSV).
45
se r v i c e
dates & rules
Conferences & Fairs
IMPRINT
energize oil & gas, issue No. 01/2010,
May 2010 Frequency energize oil & gas
May
is published twice a year Published by
08. – 10.06.2010
Germanischer Lloyd Aktiengesellschaft,
IOGCEC 2010
03. – 06.05.2010
Offshore Technology
Conference (OTC)
Houston, USA
Hamburg Editorial Director Dr Olaf
Beijing, China
Mager (OM), Corporate Communications
GL Noble Denton: booth 73/74
Managing Editor Stefanie NormannBirkholz (SNB) Authors of this issue
20. – 24.06.2010
GL Noble Denton: booth 2241 (Hall A)
26. – 27.05.2010
The 2nd European Dynamic
Brown (DB), Martin William Hay (MWH),
Works Association)
Jörn Iken (JI), Bob Jack (BJ), Karen Jacka
23. – 26.06.2010
London, UK
IGEM Annual Conference
08. – 10.06.2010
Global Petroleum Show
(KJ), R.S. Langley (RSL), Martin Layfield
Chicago, USA
Positioning Conference 2010
June
RV Ahilan (RVA), A. Argyros (AA), David
ACE (American Water
(ML), Nora Luttmer (NL), Christopher
Mayer (CM), Bruce McMichael (BM),
Francis Minah (FM), Richard Palmer
(RP), Neil Slater (NS), Shelly Young (SY)
and Exhibition
Cover
Loughborough, UK
production
August
Lohrengel Translations Andreas Kühner
photo
Statoil
Design
and
printprojekt, Schulterblatt
58, D-20357 Hamburg Layout Oliver
Prepress Fire Department Printed by
Calgary, Canada
24. – 27.08.10
GL Noble Denton: booth 5230
Exhibition & Conference ONS
GmbH, Luxemburger Straße 96, D-50354
Stavanger, Norway
Hürth Reprint © Germanischer Lloyd
(Lower Big 4)
Media Cologne Kommunikationsmedien
Aktiengesellschaft
2010.
Reprinting
permitted on explicit request – copy
requested. All information is correct to the
GL Noble Denton Guidelines
best of our knowledge. Contributions by
external authors do not necessarily reflect
Title
0009/ND
Self-Elevation Platforms – Guidelines for Elevated Operations
5
Lloyd AG, Corporate Communications,
0013/ND
Guidelines for Loadouts
5
Brooktorkai 18, D-20457 Hamburg, Phone:
0015/ND
Concrete Offshore Gravity Structures – Guidelines for Approval of
Construction, Towage and Installation
2
0016/ND
Seabed and Sub-Seabed Data Required for Approvals of Mobile
Offshore Units (MOU)
5
0021/ND
Guidelines for the Approval of Towing Vessels
8
0027/ND
Guidelines for Marine Lifting Operations
9
0028/ND
Guidelines for the Transportation and Installation of Steel Jackets
4
0030/ND
Guidelines for Marine Transportations
4
46
Rev
the views of the editors or of Germanischer
Ref
Lloyd
Enquiries
to:
Germanischer
+49 40 36149-4509, Fax: +49 40 36149250, E-Mail: pr@gl-group.com
Subscription service: for address
changes and orders please send an
e-mail to publications@gl-group.com
This product was
printed on FSC
Certified Paper
energıze
Photo: Fotolia
GL Group
Head Office
www.gl-group.com
Brooktorkai 18
20457 Hamburg
Germany
www.gl-nobledenton.com
www.gl-garradhassan.com
Phone: +49 40 36149-0
Fax: +49 40 36149-200
E-Mail: headoffice@gl-group.com
www.gl-maritime-software.com
www.friendship-systems.com
www.futureship.net
Aberdeen
Hamburg
London
Houston
Cairo
Abu Dhabi
Kuala Lumpur
Singapore
GL Noble Denton
Region Americas
Region Europe
Suite 900
5177 Richmond Avenue
Houston, TX 77056
USA
Brooktorkai 18
20457 Hamburg
Germany
Phone: +1 713 586 7000
Fax: +1 713 586 7007
E-Mail: glnobledenton@gl-group.com
Phone: +49 40 36149-7700
Fax: +49 40 36149-1781
E-Mail: glis@gl-group.com
Region Middle East/
Africa
Zahret El-Maadi Tower
66, Cornich El-Nile, El-Maadi
35th Floor, Apartment 2
11431 Cairo
Arab Republic of Egypt
0E713 2010-26-04
Phone: +20 2 25287295
Fax: +20 2 25287294
E-Mail: glnobledenton@gl-group.com
Region Asia/Pacific
Level 39, Menara Ambank
No. 8, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
Phone: +60 3 2160 1088
Fax: +60 3 2160 1099
E-Mail: glnobledenton@gl-group.com