MPSSS

M.P Seaways SS Ltd

M.P Seaways SS Ltd was formed by its two Directors, both with extensive experience of some of the major existing floating production systems currently operating in the hostile waters of the North Sea.

The Directors initially provided consultancy services to operators who were themselves actively involved in the design and construction of floating production systems. Notably North Sea Sun Oilís Balmoral FPV, Conocoís TLP, Dome Petroleums Sovereign Explorer, BPís Buchan Alpha and the Santa Fe Reel Ship Apache.

As a direct result of our involvement in those projects and the unique experience gained, we have applied the many lessons learnt to the evolution and design of the Seaways Engineering Multi-purpose Semi-Submersible (MPSS).

The MPSS will become the role model for future marginal field development.

The design is protected by patent and has undergone successful comprehensive tank testing. The Seaway MPSS design emphasises simplicity, whilst paying attention to sound engineering judgement, and cost effectiveness.

The Seaways MPSS is but one of a number of designs, whose implementation will radically change operators views and will prompt a serious re-examination of old tired concepts. It will re-vitalise the industry. It will breathe new life into the British shipbuilding industry.

Flexibility

As a response to oil industry requirements for greater flexibility and more cost effective and efficient solutions to the problems associated with offshore developments, Seaways has responded in a positive manner to the needs of the industry, by developing its Multi-Purpose Semi-Submersible (MPSS) series of floating production platforms.

The MPSS will support a larger payload than any semi-submersible currently available, and in terms of economics and safety, is considered by many, to be years ahead of its rivals.

Costs

Estimates from internationally known and respected shipyards, for the building of MPSS, indicate a considered saving on costs associated with the fabrication of the MPSS as opposed to the fabrication costs associated with those of the more familiar shaped semiís. Rapid MPSS construction, means that the critical path of the project no longer runs through the semi as construction time for the MPSS is little over 12 months.

MPSS construction, utilises existing shipyard fabrication techniques, by adopting flat, stiffened panels as the basic unit of construction. The panels are arranged to form standard uniform boxes, creating a modular principal. This is the key to the economics of the design. The simple, yet unique MPSS design, means that the MPSS can be built in the country where it is to be used, maximising local content, creating employment, whilst offering the opportunity to transfer technology to the client country. It is also suitable for CAD - CAM and Robotic welding.

Safety

In recognition of the need to improve safety offshore, Seaways commissioned Lloyds to undertake a Risk Analysis of the MPSS. The work has been successfully completed and Lloydsís Department of Safety Technology stateí... there are no inherent weaknesses in the Seaways design concepts, systems and arrangements with respect to the safety features inherent within the semi-submersible. The box structure provides substantial survival capability in the event of impact damage to any column...í The Seaways semi is simply safer.

The platform hydrodynamic response has been extensively analysed by using specially developed computer programmes. Model tank tests have been carried out on hydrodynamic and structural models over a nine month test programme at Glasgow University Department of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering. Independent Structural analysis has been carried out by W.S. Atkins Oil and Gas Ltd as well as by Lloydís Register of Shipping. These tests verified the theoretical analysis and confirmed the seaworthiness and the operating characteristics of the MPSS.

Advantages

Up to 12,000 tonne payload capacity
Topside facilities can be modularised for installation on main deck
Minimum of interfaces between hull and production facilities
Shorter hook up time
The ability to store 200,000 bbls. Of stabilised crude within MPSS hull. The larger version of the MPSS named SWIS (Semi With Integral Storage) can store 1,000,000 bbls. Of crude oil within the hull
Rapid modularised method of construction, using existing fabrication facilities
Modular construction means that semiís of varying sizes can be constructed to match clients exact needs
Constant draught, no need to come to survival draught for any sea state
Structure is totally accessible from within for inspection and maintenance
Full sprayed aluminium corrosion protection inside and out, (20 years)

Technical Data

Overall Length & Breadth 90.00m
Overall Height 56.25m
Main Deck Area 8,100m2
Deck Payload 12,000 t @ Above Deck
Deck Design Payload 12,500 t
Steel Weight and Grade 14,300 to BS4360/50
Displacement 53,000 t
Metacentric Height 7.17m
Storage Capacity 200,000 bbls (expandable)
Survivable Wave Height tested to 37.5m
Operating Draught 27.5m constant
Maximum Heave Response 15 m seas)+/- 2.5m
Natural Heave Period 25.27 secs
Centre of Gravity 26.79m

M P Seaways SS Ltd

The Innovation Centre
Aberdeen Offshore Technology Park
Exploration Drive
Aberdeen AB23 8GX

Tel: +44 (0)1224 707829
Fax: +44 (0)1224 707830