Client: E&P company              
Industry: Oil & Gas
Asset: Fixed processing platform
Location: Mexico
Year: 2023

Challenge

A client contracted Axess Mexico to conduct a structural inspection of their fixed platform situated in Sonda de Campeche. The objective was to ensure the operational reliability of the asset, a critical factor for the safety of personnel and the overall operational integrity of the platform.

Solution

The team first secured a suitable vessel and devised an engineering plan for the equipment installation on the deck, gaining approval from ABS. Subsequently, an inspection plan for the superstructure and substructure of the platform was meticulously prepared.

Upon approval, a rope access team and a 3D scanning team were mobilised to identify structural damages on the superstructure. The 3D scan data facilitated a tilt inspection using a 3D software to determine any inclination in the platform.

Simultaneously, an inspection of the substructure was executed with divers and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). The divers removed marine growth to assess the additional weight on the structure and obtained cathodic protection readings to estimate the remaining life of the anodes. A seafloor sweep was conducted to identify obstructions or irregularities on the seabed within a 500 m footprint of the platform jacket.

Results

Following the inspections, the team compiled detailed reports and conducted a comprehensive global analysis of the platform. This assessment covered various critical aspects, including strength, ultimate strength, fatigue and seismic, aimed at evaluating the overall structural integrity.

“Successfully navigating the challenges of coordinating and executing simultaneous offshore operations underscored the adaptability and expertise of our local team. This project also showed our clients that we can provide robust support in complex scenarios,” Kevin Martin, Operations Manager – Engineering at Axess Mexico said.