Apr. 2002 Vol. 223 No. 4  European Technology Round Up
Norway
New marine heavy-lift idea gains momentum

SeaMetric International AS, a Stavanger-based company, was founded in April 2000 with the purpose of developing a more environmental friendly and cost-effective marine heavy-lift concept, relative to traditional methods. In addition, the operation will be more robust in harsh weather. Safety and energy consumption have been given priority. The idea is based on a novel combination of existing proven technologies. Several technical studies have been performed to confirm feasibility and to identify technical merits:

• Pre-engineering of lift system and barge
• Environmental assessments
• Marine stability and motion analyses
• Hydrodynamic calculations
• Model testing (Phase 1)
• Preparation of outline marine procedures
• Preparation of functional specifications
• Concept design verification.

The concept, called Twin Marine Lifter (TML), provides for reduced energy consumption and emissions; improved safety level; reduced cost due to shorter preparation and operation time; lower CAPEX; and flexibility regarding type, weight and configuration. TML can be used for installation, relocation and removal of large offshore structures.

The TML single heavy-lift concept shown removing / installing a platform. The two side barges support the lifting, then the central barge receives / places the platform. Water or air are used as ballast/lift at the ends of the "rocker" arms.

TML has gained interest from the oil companies. TotalFinaElf, Shell UK, PPCoN and BP UK, together with SND (The Norwegian Industrial and Regional Development Fund) have provided financial assistance by participating in a Joint Industry Project, which was completed in May 2001. The idea was introduced during OTC 2001 in Houston.

Award nominee. The TML concept has been nominated for the ONS 2002 Innovation award. The prestigious award will be presented by the Norwegian Prime Minister during the ONS opening ceremony on August 27. Although it uses twin marine vessels, it is a single-lift concept capable of lifting 18,000 t. TML can be used for installation, relocation and removal of large offshore structures. MMS, the regulatory body for the petroleum sector in U.S., has expressed interest in the new concept, especially for platform removal. A white paper and a proposal for decommissioning study have been presented to MMS.