Ichthys

Inspection and measurement technology specialist Optical Metrology Services (OMS) has completed the measurement phase of pipeline fit-up work for the Ichthys LNG project, which is located 220km offshore Western Australia.

The project is the largest discovery of hydrocarbons in the region for 40 years and is being undertaken by global energy company INPEX. With production due to start in Q3 2017, Ichthys involves some of the largest offshore facilities currently operational in the industry.

Commissioned by Pipeline Technique Ltd (PTL) and Heerema Marine Contractors (HMC), the project has seen more than 7,000 pipes measured during various mobilisations. With strict HiLo tolerances of less than 1mm, OMS’ precision measurement solutions and compatibility with SmartFit™ Software was integral to success.

OMS client solutions head Paul Eagle said: "The Ichthys LNG project is the largest of its kind OMS has worked on to date and demonstrates the value of pipe measurement and fit-up for oil and gas projects.

"Process improvement across the industry is crucial and pipe fit-up is a key area demonstrating this. No two pipes will ever fit together with zero misalignment, so minimising HiLo through precision measurement and analysis helps to increase project success."

Commissioning the project, PTL was impressed by the efficiencies the project gained from the involvement of OMS.

Site manager Derek Duddy comments: "We would like to thank OMS for all of their efforts over the duration of a challenging and complicated project. OMS personnel have performed excellently during the Ichthys campaign on site."

OMS pipe measurement and fit-up services allowed PTL and HMC to complete the pipeline construction with improved integrity leading to increased lifespan.