Feature 5 | FAR EAST Conversion policy developed by ClassNK
As regulations drive single-hull tankers to leave operational service, sustained high demand for their transformation into Floating Storage and Offloading facilities (FSOs) has spurred Japan’s ClassNK to develop of a new set of guidelines to promote successful FSO conversions.
retired this year. While exemptions can be granted, allowing some to trade until 2015, Clarkson Research has identified 425 single- hull tankers that will be obliged to leave the market in 2010. Teir availability comes at a time when
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demand for offshore storage and loading facility has never been higher. Japan’s ClassNK says that the fact that younger single-hull tankers, which are generally in better condition and have been built to higher standards are now more easily obtainable, confirms the need for a conversion policy from Class that is readily understandable for owners.
nternational Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations dictate that the bulk of single hull tankers must be
“The permission and approval of the
relevant flag administration and the administration of the region where the FSO will be moored are absolutely essential when considering an FSO conversion.” says Yoshiaki Ogahara, General Manager of ClassNK’s Survey Department. “It should also go without saying that any planned FSO conversion needs to be carefully reviewed from the standpoint of safety and preventing marine pollution, and this is a process that requires close cooperation between the owner, Class, and government administrations.” For potential owners of FSOs, existing
tankers already meet many of the most important requirements regarding FSO construction and maintenance, especially with regards to outfitting. However, ClassNK’s
The FSO Cidade de Macae, converted by the Jurong Shipyard in 2007.
guidelines make clear the need for the provision of a mooring system, a new piping arrangement, helicopter landing equipment, and a man riding crane, as well as a survey to evaluate the condition of hull structure. Based on the sea state and length of
time the FSO is to be moored, the loading conditions, fatigue strength and the effects of sloshing on the structure will also need to be evaluated. Te guidelines also point out a number of
• Whether the capacity of the main generator will need to be increased to meet the needs
areas that will need to be addressed during the conversion including:
• Whether the propulsion systems will remain onboard, and if so whether they
of future operations
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Shiprepair and Conversion Technology 4th Quarter 2010
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