MODEC, in collaboration with Toray Industries, has unveiled a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) patch technique designed specifically for repairs on floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) and floating storage and offloading (FSO) systems.
As part of its FPSO and FSO repair services, MODEC is set to integrate this innovative CFRP patch technique for pitting corrosion repairs, effective from 2024.
This technique, approved by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for repairing areas with up to 300-millimeter diameters affected by pitting corrosion, introduces efficiency and operational continuity to maintenance activities without disrupting oil and gas production, according to a MODEC release.
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The collaboration between MODEC and Toray initially commenced in 2020, resulting in the development of a vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VaRTM) process for CFRP repairs. While effective for substantial corrosion areas, it proved less suited for addressing pitting corrosion.
The newly introduced CFRP patch technique, however, offers a simpler and more efficient solution. MODEC said that this method involves bonding prefabricated CFRP patch flat plates over areas affected by pitting corrosion, halving the workforce required and significantly improving lead times compared to the previous VaRTM process.
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Eliminating the need for vacuum pumps and other specialized equipment, this technique streamlines material transport and construction tools onboard FPSO and FSO vessels, ensuring minimal disruption to oil and gas production by eschewing hot work.
Alongside the in-situ VaRTM technique for extensive repairs, this CFRP patch technique will cater to localized repair needs, marking a substantial leap in addressing the diverse maintenance requirements of FPSO and FSO units.
MODEC has been contracted by ExxonMobil to construct Guyana’s 5th FPSO, named Errea Wittu.
