Offshore Skidding Compressor Module - North Sea

Expertise is the key to successful installation projects

One of Conbit’s specialist crews installed the 340 mT compression module on the GDF E17a-A platform in the Dutch sector of the North Sea. Conbit team performed the offshore skidding and jacking operations and successfully completed the module installation.

Watch how we prepare and execute

Skidding the module into a difficult accessible location

Preparation

The compression module had to be skidded below the helideck and jacked to its specified height. For the skidding of the module, Conbit performed friction tests which guaranteed the smooth execution of the operations.

During the main offshore preparations, the crew placed the winches on the base frames and the power packs on the wooden beams. They also connected the lead sheaves to the pad eyes and reeved the winch wire ropes. The Conbit team also installed the skid tracks with PTFE blocks on the platform. They used two 15 mT winches to pull the module to its location and four 150mT hydraulic jacks for the jacking operation.

Project execution

Conbit prepared the engineering and arranged the manpower and equipment for the operation. Four Conbit employees traveled with the Neptune from Antwerp to the E17a-A. Two people flew by helicopter to the E17a-A to make some final preparations. All the required competencies were on board, including the construction manager, project manager, structural engineer, and riggers.

Subsequent to the arrival of JUB Neptune and the module lift, the team confirmed the module's correct location. Then, they connected the wire ropes to the module pad eyes. The Conbit crew, together with the client’s support, successfully executed the skidding and jacking of the 340 mT compression module.

After the module installation, all Conbit’s equipment (winches, skid beams, power packs, rigging gear) was transported back to shore. The multipurpose equipment will certainly be used on other Conbit’s lifting or installation projects. All the pieces of equipment used were certified according to the latest standards and can be deployed anywhere in the world.

Project outcome

Conbit is proud of the well-organized and smooth execution of the project. This demonstrated their ability to perform skidding and jacking operations safely and responsibly. Conbit was grateful for the challenge and the fruitful result of their excellent cooperation.

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