MODEC introduces two next-generation newbuild FPSO hulls

August 02, 2019

TOKYO - MODEC has developed the "MODEC NOAH" and "M350", next generation new built hulls for Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels utilizing its extensive knowledge, experience and proven successes in engineering, construction, operations and maintenance of FPSOs as a leading company in this industry.

In recent years, large FPSOs have mainly been based on converting used Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs). However, as a result of increases in required crude oil and gas production capacities, the topsides have become bigger and heavier, which has led to insufficient deck space area and insufficient crude oil storage capacity. Additionally, the durations of the client contracts are increasing, thereby requiring longer FPSO design lives. Going forward it is expected that there will be a heightened demand for new built FPSO hulls. In response to these demands from the market, MODEC joined forces with Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. to develop a next generation new built hull for FPSOs called the MODEC NOAH.

Key features of the "MODEC NOAH" hull include:

Adaptable to a wide range of shipyards around the world;
Large deck area to cope with the trend toward larger, heavier and more complex topsides;
Modular design concept, to accommodate a large variety of requirements for various FPSO projects, including various mooring configurations;
Standardization of fore/aft modules and the parallel-body module with adjustable lengths which can be separately constructed at different shipyards, thus significantly expanding the options for construction locations, as well as scheduling flexibility based on dock availability;
Strategic unique hull form consisting of flat or 2-dimensional bending plates, which can reduce construction costs while maintaining seakeeping properties and minimizing green water and slamming loads impact;
Adoption of a unique design of the hull which enables a machinery room volume, beneficial changes for the functionality of the piping, and an improvement in safety of the living quarters;
Adoption of a hull form that allows the storage tanks to be continuously inspected during stable ongoing operations by providing sufficient inspection accesses;
Work efficient layout for adequate maintenance activities required in the long-term operations; and
More comfortable living area for crewmembers that takes into account their working environment and living environment.

MODEC received Approval in Principle for the design of "MODEC NOAH" from the American Bureau of Shipping in March 2019, as well as from the Bureau Veritas and the DNV GL in May 2019.

Furthermore, offshore oil and gas fields all differ depending on the region, in terms of the form of the crude oil or natural gas as well as environmental conditions such as water depth, waves, winds, currents and tides. The specifications of each FPSO need to match the project specific conditions, as well as the standards defined by the client.

MODEC has also developed a second next generation new built FPSO hull, the "M350", which has received AiPs from the American Bureau of Shipping and DNV GL. The "M350" has been jointly developed with Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation, with ultra-modern shipbuilding facilities and technologies.

TOKYO - MODEC has developed the "MODEC NOAH" and "M350", next generation new built hulls for Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels utilizing its extensive knowledge, experience and proven successes in engineering, construction, operations and maintenance of FPSOs as a leading company in this industry.

In recent years, large FPSOs have mainly been based on converting used Very Large Crude Carriers. However, as a result of increases in required crude oil and gas production capacities, the topsides have become bigger and heavier, which has led to insufficient deck space area and insufficient crude oil storage capacity. Additionally, the durations of the client contracts are increasing, thereby requiring longer FPSO design lives. Going forward it is expected that there will be a heightened demand for new built FPSO hulls. In response to these demands from the market, MODEC joined forces with Mitsui E&S Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. to develop a next generation new built hull for FPSOs called the MODEC NOAH.

Key features of the "MODEC NOAH" hull include:

· Adaptable to a wide range of shipyards around the world;

· Large deck area to cope with the trend toward larger, heavier and more complex topsides;

· Modular design concept, to accommodate a large variety of requirements for various FPSO projects, including various mooring configurations;

· Standardization of fore/aft modules and the parallel-body module with adjustable lengths which can be separately constructed at different shipyards, thus significantly expanding the options for construction locations, as well as scheduling flexibility based on dock availability;

· Strategic unique hull form consisting of flat or 2-dimensional bending plates, which can reduce construction costs while maintaining seakeeping properties and minimizing green water and slamming loads impact;

· Adoption of a unique design of the hull which enables a machinery room volume, beneficial changes for the functionality of the piping, and an improvement in safety of the living quarters;

· Adoption of a hull form that allows the storage tanks to be continuously inspected during stable ongoing operations by providing sufficient inspection accesses;

· Work efficient layout for adequate maintenance activities required in the long-term operations; and

· More comfortable living area for crewmembers that takes into account their working environment and living environment.

MODEC received Approval in Principle for the design of "MODEC NOAH" from the American Bureau of Shipping in March 2019, as well as from the Bureau Veritas and the DNV GL in May 2019.