FPSO conversion begins in Singapore

SBM Offshore has started to convert the tanker Tina into a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel after its arrival in Singapore.

The Bahamas-flagged very large crude carrier (VLCC) arrived at Keppel Shipyard, where it will undergo conversion for ExxonMobil’s Liza Phase 1 development in the Stabroek block offshore Guyana.

This follows SBM Offshore’s completion of the front-end engineering and design (FEED) and a final investment decision by ExxonMobil and its partners to go ahead with the project in June.

The conversion will include upgrade work on the hull and integration of the topsides, refurbishment and life extension works, such as upgrades to the living quarters.

When completed, the FPSO will be able to produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day, will have associated gas treatment capacity of circa 4.8 million cubic metres per day and water injection capacity of 200,000 barrels per day.

The converted VLCC FPSO will be spread moored in water depth of 1,525 metres and will be able to store 1.6 million barrels of crude oil.

SBM Offshore will also be responsible for installing, leasing, and operating the vessel.