GDF SUEZ awarded Conbit an engineering project. The project included the design and engineering of a dedicated lift solution for the installation of a deck extension on their K2b-A platform. The deck extension was required to facilitate a coil tubing job.

The K2b-A platform is located in the K2 block of the Dutch Continental Shelf in the North Sea. The platform was installed in 2005. As there was not enough space on the main deck to store temporary equipment for the coil tubing job, a deck extension was required. This deck extension was to be installed on the western side of the platform. The in-place situation had been analysed by Conbit as part of a different contract.

The 15 tonne deck extension would be loaded onto a Platform Supply Vessel and lifted directly from this vessel using the deck crane. The new deck extension was first lifted to a lay down area. The next step was to lift the deck extension into a vertical position. The deck extension was then lifted into two hinge points. The last step was to lower the deck extension to a horizontal and final position.

As this was not a standard lift job, involving more hazards than normal lift operations, Conbit’s lifting expertise was called on to provide the necessary support. The involvement of experts ensured the smooth management of the lift operation. Safety is key to such projects and Conbit has plenty of added value relating to every aspect of a special lifting project.

Conbit values its long-term relationship with GDF SUEZ, which is one of the biggest operators of offshore platforms.