ABS, a provider of classification services to the offshore industry, has granted approval in principle to Frontier Deepwater Appraisal Solutions for an ultra-deepwater appraisal production system (APS).
ABS said that the appraisal production system would provide critical production data for reserves located in ultra-deepwater areas.
Intended for deployment early in the appraisal process, the APS provides direct vertical access for drilling, completion, and well intervention to collect production data that is aimed at supporting better reservoir understanding.
ABS executive VP for global offshore, Kenneth Richardson , said: “ABS is pleased to issue this agreement that supports the development of a new concept for enhancing offshore production. As a technology leader, ABS works alongside industry, applying the latest class requirements and safety standards to novel concepts and designs.”
In issuing this agreement, ABS examined several key design concepts at the rig/APS system interface, including the movable wellbay (a sliding and locking riser tensioner cart), riser design, and mooring system. ABS also performed a conceptual hazard identification assessment for the project.
Frontier executive VP, Charles White , said: “ABS was an important partner in helping us prove concept viability. Gaining this agreement is an important milestone for Frontier, taking us a step closer to deploying this new concept into the offshore market.”
ABS added that it expanded its subsea service team earlier this year to work alongside operators, subsea equipment manufacturers and other industry stakeholders to verify compliance with safety standards from initial design through construction, delivery, and operations.