TPi March 2015

The linear separation between the Zap-Lok press and the tensioner has a direct effect on the lay rate of the system. A longer back deck area and a greater separation between the Zap-Lok press and the tensioner will mean that there can be several connected joints between the Zap-Lok press and the tensioner, therefore allowing some of the Zapoxy curing time period to be brought offline, and the lay rate increased. The standard MPS stinger has been designed to accommodate the largest anticipated loads, but is adjustable in length such that it can be shortened if required, depending on product and water depth. The abandonment and recovery winch is used in the same way as for traditional pipelay methods, and is used for controlled laydown and recovery of pipe.

Zap-Lok pipe connection system

The MPS system comes with its own electrical generators, hydraulic HPUs and compressed air supplies to run the system independently of the host vessel.

“Most subsea development costs are increasing, which can jeopardise future development or replacement projects. By having the equipment needed for the pipelaying task designed to be installed and operated from a vessel of opportunity rather than hiring a specialist pipelay ship, the savings to an operator are eye-catching and marginal subsea projects may be able to achieve the required financial targets to gain sanction. “We can do the engineering analysis, carry out the work and then allow the contractor to tie the pipeline in and complete the commissioning. All you need is a DP2 vessel around 100m long. “Three of the major international operators and numerous independents have approved the use of Zap-Lok for global subsea operations in the past two years. Operators need to make tiebacks and completions cheaper in the North Sea, and using Zap-Lok is a great solution. These organisations see the obvious advantages of the Zap-Lok technology. We are now progressing towards fabrication and trials of the first of the MPS units for operations. This is a significant step in the development of our company towards advancing technology and maximising value for the subsea market.”

Installation and removal “The MPS has been designed using similar sized structural components, with similar types of bolted connections. All the component parts have been design to be road or sea transportable and fit within standard freight dimensions,” explained Mr Cowie. “The assembly of the component parts has also been considered and the number of connections to be made has been minimised. “All structural foundations are based on similar sized beams, meaning that the sea-fastening design is standardised, and the overall dimensions of the foundations are designed such that they span the required number of ‘hard points’ on a typical deck to achieve the required values.” Cortez Subsea says that individual component items, eg pipe storage racks, can be assembled on the quayside prior to the host vessel arrival and then lifted on as assembled units. Larger items such as the Zap-Lok press, tensioner(s) and A&R winches are bolted down onto bespoke bases that form part of the MPS firing line foundation. For demobilisation, the process is reversed with the focus on getting the vessel off hire and available for other work. The major items are stripped back to their component parts for storage or shipment. “What makes this unique is that the mechanical interface joint is considerably quicker than the reeling process, which involves pre-welding on shore,” added Mr Cowie. “It’s also a safer option as there is no welding carried out offshore, so fewer personnel are required on board. You also have better control over the pipe’s alignment dimensions with this system as it is cold-worked, and moreover since it is essentially a manufactured joint.

Cortez Subsea Ltd – UK info@cortezsubsea.com www.cortezsubsea.com

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March 2015 Tube Products International