Bluewater has contracted GLO Marine for Phase 2 of the Hæwene Brim FPSO's marine hydraulic system upgrade, following the collaboration between the companies in Phase 1.
The FPSO operates for Shell at the Pierce Field in the UK North Sea, close to the median line with Norway. In Phase 1, GLO Marine performed a feasibility and engineering work scope that included detailed technical analysis and prototype validation.
The hydraulic system upgrade is part of Bluewater’s broader asset life extension strategy for the FPSO to ensure at least 10 years of further operation, featuring modular components and built-in diagnostics to assist with maintenance and fault tracing.
Phase 2 covers detailed engineering, manufacturing, testing, delivery and offshore installation and commissioning. As main integrator and project manager, GLO Marine will have full responsibility for execution.
Tasks for Phase 2 include the supply and integration of new hydraulic deck boxes, a PLC-controlled unit with HMI, solenoid cabinets, a new bridge console, and preparation of all class-approved documentation and procedures.
In addition, GLO Marine will manage system testing, FAT validation, software development and offshore commissioning.
The Hæwene Brim was built in 1996 at Samsung’s shipyard in South Korea as a multi-purpose shuttle tanker that could also be converted to an FPSO. It started operations in this new mode in 1999, with Bluewater acquiring ownership of the vessel two years later. It has since operated the vessel at Pierce for Shell, with numerous engineering modifications enacted over the past two decades.
