Two FPSO conversions for Keppel Shipyard

The new SBM Offshore project involves conversion of a Suezmax tanker into the FPSO that will host the Stones ultra deepwater development by Shell in the Gulf of Mexico. The completed vessel will, when delivered, be the world’s deepest production facility as well as the deepest FPSO with a disconnectable buoy (BTM). The yard’s scope of work includes refurbishment and life extension works; upgrading of living quarters; fabrication and installation of the internal disconnectable buoy BTM system and topside module supports; as well as the installation and integration of topside modules.

The FPSO will offer a processing facility capacity of 60,000 barrels/day and 15 mmscfd of gas treatment and export. It will be able to store 800,000 barrels of crude oil and its total topsides weight will reach 7,000 tonnes. Including the Stones FPSO, Keppel Shipyard has undertaken 20 major projects for SBM Offshore since 2000.

Keppel’s second contract, from M3nergy Offshore, is to convert an Aframax tanker into an FPSO for the Bukit Tua Field. For this project, Keppel Shipyard will undertake refurbishment and life extension works; fabrication and installation of new structures, piping systems, spread-mooring system; upgrading of the living quarters; as well as the installation and integration of the topsides process modules.

Scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2014, the FPSO has been chartered by PC Ketapang II Ltd for operations in the Bukit Tua field, offshore Indonesia. This vessel will have a production capacity of up to 25,000 barrels/day of liquids and a storage capacity of up to 630,000 barrels.

Michael Chia, MD (marine and technology), Keppel Offshore & Marine, said, “The award of these contracts from our repeat customers affirms their confidence in us. These contracts from experienced FPSO fleet owners and operators SBM Offshore and M3nergy bear testament to our commitment to quality conversion and upgrading services.”