P.D.E.T Tether Installed for Petrobras
14 May 2008
In September 2006 Moorlink was contracted by Technip Flexibras Tubos Flexiveis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to supply components for the tether chain system for the Petrobras PP.D.E.T Profundo project.
The P.D.E.T Profundo project consists of the installation of an oil export pipeline and of a free standing hybrid riser (FSHR) from the P-52 semi-submersible Floating Production Unit (FPU) located in the Campos Basin, offshore Brazil.
This system is planned to remain in service for 25 years. The PDET tether design was based on the previously delivered tether systems by MoorLink for Kizomba A and Kizomba B.
The scope of work included two universal links fitted with low friction bearings, and a load monitoring spool piece. One main difference was the selected load monitoring system, implying a lot more advanced CNC machining to very high tolerances.
The tether manufacturing process is very strict due to the fact that no redundancy of extra lines is included. Welding and selection of forged material was essential. Mechanical testing and position of the test sample take outs was thoroughly analysed in order to achieve the true and right material properties.
In spite of the increased demand from the industry to improve material testing Moorlink has taken major steps in increasing its material investigation and testing.
