The 6th installation of KCI’s self installing and floating concept the Multi Purpose Platform (MPP) took place early August. Customer Wintershall envisaged to relocate a MPP from location P6-S to Q1-D where the platform will find a new challenge.
Prior to the transport, the P6-S platform was decommissioned and obsolete equipment was removed. The MPP topside structure consists out of two large floaters supported by 4 piles with suction anchors.
In order to relocate this platform, KCI was awarded the preparation of the procedures for the removal from the P6-S location and the installation at Q1-D. KCI also prepared the topside piping modifications that were required for the new location. In addition to this, KCI also carried out the structural strength analysis for the Q1-D platform and the detailed design for the new Q1-D pipeline including the riser and subsea tie-in spools.
About 15 years ago KCI introduced its innovative MPP concept to the North Sea. At that time 3 MPP’s were built and installed for Clyde Petroleum. The current owner, Wintershall Noordzee BV, has now relocated all 3 MPP’s which was exactly the intention of this flexible type of platform.
“Exploiting small gas fields is relatively expensive. With the re-use of the MPP it is not needed to build a new platform from scratch and field Q1-D can be developed at very low costs,” states Peter Valkenier, Engineering and Construction Manager at Wintershall.
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Press Release, September 10, 2013