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FPSO fire extinguishing systems in drilling ships

FPSO fire extinguishing systems in drilling ships

Paul Goldsmith
By
Paul Goldsmith
10 Dec 2020
)
Last updated: 10 Mar 2022

Providing maximum safety against fire for one of the largest oil drilling facilities in the world, Shell’s FPSO in the Gulf of Mexico, was an extremely challenging task. With drilling up to a depth of up to 9 km and a production rate of 50,000 barrels of oil, the rig is a high-risk fire zone.

 

That’s why Shell sought a proven and reliable solution for the fire protection system for an operation life of 30 years. The solution needed to be able to withstand the harsh conditions of an offshore environment, pressurized seawater and be safe for operation in an environment with highly flammable materials. The fire-resistant valves supplying the water to the extinguishing system needed to be able to continue working under the extreme pressure wave of a possible explosion, to open and shut via remote control, and hold the ABS type approval Standard.  

 

In order to meet the project's requirements, Bermad supplied fifteen unique valves constructed in nickel, aluminum, bronze and Monel®, suited to the corrosive sea water conditions. Once a fire has been detected, the valves are activated to open by an electrical signal or by pressure drop, supplying water to the whole fire protection system. Water will reach the sprinkler systems on time and at the required pressure.

 

BERMAD rose to the challenge, using their vast experience in this field to comply with all Shell’s stringent requirements, providing an uncomplicated, strong, durable and reliable solution.

 

See how BERMAD’s solution guarantees maximum fire safety for this industry leading FPSO platform.

 

 

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Topics: Fire Protection, BERMAD webinar

Paul Goldsmith

Written by Paul Goldsmith

Paul has worked at BERMAD since 1998 as a Test Engineer for Research and Development, Product Management and in Marketing. He holds a degree in Water Management and Hydraulic Engineering from the Ruppin Academic Center.

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