The Client's Request
A major Oil & Gas operator approached us with a requirement for a power solution to provide uninterruptable, reliable supply to a number of loads located in various sections of an offshore fleet of barges.
The distribution system would further require accessible sockets for personnel on board the installation to carry out essential work using electrical apparatus and equipment.
The Challenge
As with many offshore installations there are always physical footprint constraints and this project was no exception. However, the available space was smaller than usual which meant we had to think both narrow and vertical. This was just another factor contributing to the challenging design of the bespoke system.
Due to the locations on the barge where the equipment was intended for operation, it was identified that there would be gas present in the air for periods of time, therefore the systems would need to be designed and manufactured in line with hazardous area standards & certification.
Finally, it was necessary for the systems to be available across the barge due to the nature of the work, and the system weight and functionality would require a complex design to support this.
The Solution
JCE designed and manufactured four plug & play MDU skids suitable for ATEX and IECEx, Zone 1, hazardous areas.
The robust systems included:
- Bulkhead mounted sockets
- Coated distribution system with vital electrical components
- Facilities for Fire and Gas signals
- Transformer enclosures
To ensure ease of locating, the certified frames included wire slings to allow efficient lifting by on-site machinery.
