Buchan Alpha Structural Integrity Service
Introduction
The Buchan platform was one of the first floating production systems to be operated in the North Sea. Before its conversion to a production facility, the vessel was a semi-submersible drilling unit. At the time of its conversion, Talisman Energy appointed Atkins to undertake a full assessment of the structural integrity of the structure. Subsequently, throughout the life of the field, Atkins has been retained to provide a range of naval architectural and structural engineering services.
Client issues
As the platform ages, there is an increasing need to understand issues around its structural integrity in order to ensure that it remains safely in position whilst handling the remaining oil reserves.
Our solution
Atkins has provided a full structural engineering service based on decades of experience with Buchan. This service has included:
- engineering to support installation of gas lift equipment
- detailed stability analysis and assessment
- design and development of onboard computer-based stability management system
- specialist studies in support of safety case
- design of retrofitted watertight bulk heads required to satisfy HSE 4th Edition stability requirements
- structural assessment of the consequence of fire and blast
- assessment and design of repairs following boat impact.
Key Benefits
Atkins involvement with the Buchan platform over many years has given our client, Talisman Energy, confidence in the integrity of the installation allied with cost-effective approaches to remedial actions.
For more information, contact;
Arthur Stoddart
tel: +44 (0)20 7121 2184