Installation scheme for Bijupira-Salema anchor piles
During the development of the Bijupira-Salema production field in the Campos Basin, Brazil, the installation of steel catenary riser anchor piles fell in between several installation contractors’ contracts.
Delmar Systems was consulted to review potential AHTS vessels to source a cost competitive installation scheme. Upon the recommendation of a suitable vessel candidate, the request to provide installation procedures and support services followed.
The suction piles had been designed by a third-party engineering firm and were already nearing completion in Brazil at the time Delmar Systems was hired for services.
An installation procedure was developed which incorporated design features of the piles and applied portions of Delmar Systems’ patented pile installation methodology.
A complete complement of Delmar installation personnel was dispatched to Rio to conduct the operation aboard the vessel offshore. During the mobilization it was recognized that some crucial installation support equipment was not available either on the vessel or for possible procurement in country. Delmar Systems worked with its array of international suppliers to have this equipment expedited overnight to Rio in order to keep the operation on track.
Three suction anchors of an independent design were installed using the Delmar Systems method from a vessel which had no prior experience with suction anchor installation. This was done with an international marine crew, an American anchor handling crew for a client with considerable project restraints. The suction anchor installation tolerance was very tight due to their intended purpose.
The project was delivered on time and on estimated budget. Where contractors who were working in the immediate area sought to earn a premium for this limited scope of work, Delmar Systems successfully took care of the installation. Significant cost savings were achieved for the customer and Delmar Systems had the piles installed months ahead of alternative avenues.
