Ocean Installer to change out heavy compressor module at the Åsgard Subsea Compression Station
Image: Illustration credit: Equinor
Published:
Nov 20, 2024
Equinor has awarded Ocean Installer a contract to replace a compressor module at the Åsgard Subsea Compression Station. This is the first time any of the modules in the Subsea Compression Station will be retrieved and installed with the use of a vessel crane.
- Ocean Installer contracted by Equinor to replace heavy compressor module at the Åsgard field
- Lifts close to 400 tons
- A test lift, offshore simulation training, pre-commissioning and complex ROV operations also part of the scope
The modules in Åsgard Subsea Compression Station were previously installed by North Sea Giant equipped with a purpose-built Special Handling System. The subsea compression system plays a critical role to maintain the production rate from the Midgard and Mikkel fields. The objective of this project is replacing one compressor module with a new and upgraded compressor module giving higher pressure ratio.
The project will commence with a test lift where the objective is to test a newly developed Module Retrieval System consisting of tugger winches and bumper frames designed to stabilize the heavy loads when over boarding the modules. This will be followed by training of the offshore crew and engineering team at the Offshore Simulator Centre in Ålesund before finally the compressor change-out campaign with lifts close to 400 tons.
Pre-commissioning activities and complex ROV operations is also a part of the scope. The extensive engineering preparation has already started, and offshore operations will take place in 2025.
– We are excited to continue working with Equinor under the framework agreement for marine services covering subsea intervention and repair contingency. This is our third award since the agreement was signed one year ago.
The subsea compression modules are critical to maintaining production and through this project we will acquire valuable experience with these complex operations, which will better prepare us for potential future contingency and planned operations, says Kevin Murphy, Ocean Installer CEO.
