Bureau Veritas has issued rules for the classification of offshore floating gas units, covering structure design principles, hydrodynamic analysis, design loads, hull girder strength, hull scantlings, local structural improvements, the cargo containment system, stability and subdivision, arrangements, access, ventilation and venting of spaces in the cargo area, equipment and safety particulars, topsides systems, transfer systems, piping systems, use of cargo as fuel, electrical installations and swivels and risers.
“We are busy with a number of floating LNG projects, both for production and reception, and we see a need for clarity on the standards which apply and the interface between independent verification of process plant and the classification of floating structures,” commented Catalin Toderan, Project Manager Offshore Structure, Bureau Veritas. “Very often floating gas units cross regulatory boundaries. They are using new technologies, but are also often using existing technologies brought together in new ways.
“Our experience with floating offshore structures is massive, and we have always been a world leader in the transport of LNG and LPG by sea. We are able to bring those two areas of experience together and marry them up with a high technology approach and a sound understanding of how inspection, rules and classification help to ensure the safety and viability of projects.
“These new rules help others to share that experience. We will shortly provide guidelines on risk-based classification and verification which will help extend the ways in which our experience can be used to facilitate new floating LNG projects.”
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Source: Bureau Veritas, January 19, 2011;