GEOCEAN have developed a very deep Seawater intake system allowing to pump by -800m or more very cold water (5°C) in large quantities (around 30.000 m3/h) for offshore facilities liquefying natural gas (FLNG). Abstract
We mobilized our engineering department having a unique experience of HDPE (high density polyethylene) large diameter pipeline installation in shallow water and in deep water (coastal installation on a Polynesian atoll down to -960m). We carried out an 18 months feasibility study (static study, dynamic study using ORCAFLEX v9.3, fatigue assessment, installation methodology,…) reaching a positive conclusion, to the satisfaction of French companies of the energy sector who financed partially this R&D program.
Mid-term applications are for Floating LNGs and OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion) floating platforms. This paper will outline the similarities of the two applications and how one solution could cover both needs. Cyclonic conditions will be addressed.