Pressure Dynamics goes FLNG!

FMC Technologies has awarded Pressure Dynamics the contract to design and manufacture the subsea control system Production Hydraulic Power Unit (PHPU) for Shell’s new Prelude gas field.

FMC Technologies will be executing the subsea phase of the engineering, procurements and construction (EPC) project for Shell Development Australia, and is responsible for the supply of the entire subsea production, distribution and topside control systems.

The Prelude FLNG facility

The Prelude floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility will be the largest floating structure ever built, at 488 m long, 74 m wide and weighing 600,000 tonnes when loaded. Shell estimates about 260,000 tonnes of steel will be used to build the structure - around five times the steel used to build the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Pressure Dynamics will be responsible for seeing the PHPU installed in the turret of the FLNG facility as the final control element between the topside and subsea gas field, supplying the regulated hydraulic pressure necessary to maintain the flow of natural gas from the subsea production trees as well as ensuring an effective emergency shutdown (ESD) if required.

In addition to the PHPU, Pressure Dynamics will also design and manufacture three test and flushing systems required for commissioning the subsea control system.

All of the Pressure Dynamics systems for the Prelude project will be constructed from 316 stainless steel and be rated for use in an explosive environment. Pressure Dynamics’ engineering team anticipates the equipment will be delivered in August 2012.