Flare Tip Replacement - Marlin B, Australia

The power of preparation 

Conbit prepared extensively. During the structural design and engineering phase, they considered the environmental conditions, such as temperature, wind, and sea state. They also conducted a feasibility study, which indicated that the flare tip access platform could carry the flare tip and lifting system.

Safety meetings were planned, ensuring all crew members were fully trained and briefed. 

Once the equipment arrived at the location, site preparation was done. The crew unpacked the containers, then installed the winches, and lastly cleared the working area. Next was to install all the lifting and rigging equipment to perform the lift.

The job was performed by five crew members, three at the FTAP, one at the deck and winch location, and one at the supply vessel. A load test was done at Conbit’s yard in Eindhoven, witnessed by a client representative. After that, the crew shipped all the equipment in 20ft containers.

Methodology 

Conbit opted for a drop-and lower-to-the-supply-vessel solution, whereby the flare tip was handled on the flare tip platform by a gantry-type lifting structure. The gantry lifted the flare tip over the platform's edge and lowered it onto a supply vessel using a lift line. This lift line, coming from a winch installed on one of the platform decks, connected to the structure underneath the flare tip platform.

Conbit developed a reputation in the industry for flare tip replacements. Their exemplary preparation and planning stages included testing the feasibility of the mechanical handling method. This gave the impression and confidence to their client that replacement of the flare tip project will be carried out successfully. 

The project was completed within the five days shutdown.