Kongsberg Maritime is making waves in the floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) sector with a hefty contract valued at over $25 million for the Golar Mk2 project. This deal is no small potatoes; it involves providing an integrated package of electrical, control, safety, and propulsion systems for the transformation of Golar’s LNG tanker, Fuji LNG. The vessel will undergo a significant rebuild, stretching nearly 100 meters longer and converting it into a state-of-the-art FLNG unit. The work is set to take place at CIMC Raffles shipyard in Yantai, China, with the topside LNG process plant supplied by Black & Veatch.
FLNG technology is a game-changer in the LNG industry, offering a flexible solution for offshore and remote gas extraction. With its compact footprint and optimized capital expenditure, FLNG installations do away with the need for costly permanent infrastructure like pipelines and onshore facilities. This mobility and reusability allow FLNG units to be redeployed to different fields once gas reserves run dry, enhancing their economic viability and appeal in a market that increasingly values efficiency and adaptability.
Kongsberg Maritime’s equipment package for the Golar Mk2 FLNG is nothing to sneeze at. It includes two UUC305 azimuth thrusters, cutting-edge electrical systems, and an integrated control and safety system (ICSS). These thrusters will come equipped with a heading control system, showcasing Kongsberg’s prowess in dynamic positioning. This means they can maintain the vessel’s orientation without needing full dynamic positioning capabilities, which is a smart move for an FLNG unit.
The ICSS is a comprehensive suite that ensures the safe and efficient operation of the FLNG unit. It integrates various critical functions, including process plant control, energy management, power distribution, cargo handling, ballast control, and auxiliary systems. The safety measures built into the ICSS are robust, featuring emergency shutdown systems (ESD), fire and gas detection systems (F&G), and process shutdown systems (PSD). This level of integration is paramount for maintaining operational integrity in what can be a challenging offshore environment.
Morten Skjong, Golar LNG’s Project Manager for the MK II FLNG, emphasized the long-standing relationship between Golar and Kongsberg Maritime, stating, “Kongsberg Maritime has been a trusted supplier to Golar LNG’s floating portfolio for decades.” This sentiment underscores the importance of reliable partnerships in the maritime industry, especially for operators like Golar that commit to lengthy contracts. The quality of solutions is not just about the execution phase; it’s about ensuring that these products and services remain dependable throughout the entire operational lifespan.
Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, President of Kongsberg Maritime, expressed pride in supporting Golar’s innovative conversion project, highlighting the growing global demand for LNG. This project isn’t merely a technical undertaking; it’s a strategic move that reflects broader industry trends. Vegard Skår, Vice President of Sales for Offshore Production Units, noted the collaborative efforts with Golar, CIMC Raffles, and Black & Veatch during the design phase. Such teamwork is essential for the successful integration of the various systems involved in this complex conversion project.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the successful execution of the Golar Mk2 FLNG project could set a precedent for future developments. The lessons learned and innovations applied here may influence how other companies approach FLNG technology and offshore gas extraction, potentially reshaping the landscape of the LNG sector for years to come.
