Kaombo Northe FPSO Flare Tip Replacement

SCOPE

Saipem contacted Conbit for a flare tip replacement at the Kaombo Norte FPSO which is located offshore from Angola, Africa.

The HP flare tip needed to be replaced, as well as a relocation and replacement of the ignition and thermocouple junction boxes. The shutdown was scheduled for December 2024, which was later postponed to January 2025.

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SOLUTION

On the Kaombo Norte, Conbit will use a PLE system to replace the HP flare tip. The equipment for this system will be transported from the main laydown area to the project laydown area / work area by using a 15mT monorail. For this monorail Conbit arranged a 5mT trolley with a 6mT air hoist to liftequipment from the process deck to the hull deck.

From the work area Conbit installed the PLE system on top of the flare stack top platform. The PLE system was load tested prior to the replacement of the HP flare tip.

The HP ignition and thermocouple junction boxes were relocated to a lower platform underneath the flare stack top platform. An inspection of the obstruction lights cables was required to determine repair works. This happened throughout the project.

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The pilot cables were adjusted and if required, repaired for alignment and installation to the new HP flare tip. For this part of the scope, welding was required.

Watch how we prepare and execute

EQUIPMENT

A gantry system was chosen for this project, which consisted of two portals, a base frame and rigging lines. Additionally, guidelines were installed to control the loads being lifted and lowered. To be lifted items were connected to the guidelines via a guideline connector. A 1mT service winch and5mT main winch were installed at the bottom of the flare stack.

EVALUATION

The electrical scope was more extensive than anticipated beforehand. Several challenges were experienced during the execution and last-minute adjustments to the procedures were required.

Even with the additional challenges Conbit managed to finish the project to the client’s satisfaction with no time loss due to good team logistics. The electrical scope was an extra added value for the client.

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