Flare Tip Replacement - Enchilada Platform, Gulf of Mexico

Engineering 

The Conbit engineers prepared a concept lift plan which was verified during a site survey executed by the project manager analyzing the flare platform. Method statements, work packages, and structural analysis were then followed.

Mobilization 

Conbit tested the flare tip handling system during the load test in its warehouse in the Netherlands before shipping it to the US. A multi-skilled crew of fully trained rope access technicians and competed riggers was selected to execute the project. They comprised of local technicians and a Dutch team leader. They did the task simultaneously with the Salsa platform. After installing the deck equipment and replacing the flare tips at the Enchilada platform, the team left for Salsa for another flare tip replacement. 

Offshore execution 

The flare tip handling system installation went well, and the load test was carried out successfully. The flare tip replacement was based on lifting to and from a supply vessel. This procedure relies on fast lift winches to overcome the motions of the sea. Hence, an experienced winch operator must perform the lift at the right moment. Conbit's primary lifting equipment handled the flare tips. They also used Conbit's light rigging equipment on top of the flare tip access platform. 

In addition, the team used an offshore lift line to lift to and from a supply vessel. A 2190kg-flare tip replaced the existing 2980kg-high pressure flare tip.  On the other hand, the low-pressure flare tip was replaced with a lesser weight of 270kg. 

The lifting operation progressed well, and the new flare tips were connected according to the procedure. After housekeeping and packing the containers, the crew left for the next flare tip replacement at Salsa.

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