Installation of the Fulmar SALM and Storage Tanker

Abstract

The Fulmar Single Anchor Leg Mooring (SALM) permanently moors a converted tanker serving as a Floating Storage Unit (FSU) in the North Sea at Shell/Esso's Fulmar Field. The Fulmar storage and offloading system is the first such system installed in a rough weather area. The installation of the SALM was unique, not by choice, but because of the requirements imposed by the nature of the system and by the environmental effects on the structure during installation. The SALM is comprised of very large, heavy structural components joined by mechanical articulations and connections. The size and weight necessitated that the connection of the FSU to the buoy be made offshore. The installation of the structure was weather sensitive, requiring the design of numerous "hold points" into the procedure; for instance, the SALM buoy acted temporarily as a gravity structure, being transformed finally into a pile founded structure. The loadout and installation strained the capacity of both dockside and floating equipment and produced several new world weight records. Novel applications of conventional equipment were used for loadout and transport of the components, for rigging used to make the major offshore lifts and connection between moving assemblies and for the rapid slurry installation of the permanent ballast. This paper describes the installation procedures along with the corresponding field experience. Data on rigging, lift weights, seastate limitations and schedule are presented for use by those who may be faced with a similar opportunity.