caribbean exmar

Your assets – FLNG

ENSURING SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE IN FLNG OPERATIONS

Floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) is gaining traction as it allows the use of remote gas reserves and support meeting the rising global demand for natural gas, which is now recognized as a necessary energy transition fuel.

Independent 3rd party activities, such as Classification, Verification and Certification play a vital role in ensuring the safety, reliability and compliance of FLNG facilities. Bureau Veritas provides all of them for offshore installation with dedicated guidelines and rule notes specific for FLNG projects,.
 

OVERCOMING THE COMPLEXITIES OF THE FLNG MARKET

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 

FLNG projects must navigate complex international and local regulations to ensure safe and legal operations. Bureau Veritas has an in-depth understanding of the regulatory frameworks governing the FLNG industry. We provide guidance on regulatory compliance, assisting clients in navigating the requirements set forth by maritime authorities and environmental agencies. We have also developed our own rule, NR 542 , for the classification of the design, construction and operation of floating gas units.

CARGO CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS (CCS)

We have a deep understanding of CCS technologies such as Type A, B and C SPB systems, spherical systems and membrane tanks. Armed with this knowledge and experience, Bureau Veritas is well equipped to address the unique challenges associated with any CCS system. Additionally, we developed NR 686  to provide rules for the design and certification of membrane type LNG cargo containment systems.

SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS 

Our advanced software solutions, designed to enhance safety and operational efficiency, include:

  • HydroSTAR: an advanced fluid dynamics software developed for seakeeping analysis
  • ARIANE: offers stationkeeping analysis and dynamic positioning simulations to assess all types of mooring configurations under different environmental conditions
  • Veristar Hull: our in-house 3D Finite Element Method (FEM) software analyzes FLNG hull structure integrity 
  • HOMER: our advanced hydrostructure FEM software uses hydrodynamics and structural analysis to understand IMO Type A and B SPB systems’ non-linear behavior.

CYBERSECURITY 

Cybersecurity is a key concern for high-value assets like FLNG facilities. Bureau Veritas recognizes the critical importance of cybersecurity in the energy industry and offers dedicated tools and services to support FLNG operators in safeguarding their assets. Our NR 659 rules provide a framework for cybersecurity classification of marine units, and offer specialized tools to assess the cyber maturity of FLNG units.

LNG STS TRANSFER 

Bureau Veritas recognizes the unique challenges related to transferring liquefied gas and ship-to-ship (STS) operations. We provide comprehensive notations and services for the classification and approval of transfer systems used in STS operations, including side-by-side and tandem configurations.

REMOTE INSPECTIONS

We are at the forefront of remote inspection for FLNG facilities using advanced technologies such as NoMan Cameras, poles, remotely operated vehicles, drones and augmented surveys.

RISK ASSESSMENT

Effective risk assessment is critical to ensuring the safety and hazard mitigation measures of FLNG facilities. Bureau Veritas has a dedicated team specializing in FLNG risk assessment, and has developed rule notes specifically addressing topsides and LNG transfers.

Bureau Veritas is a trusted partner in the offshore industry, with 94 classed offshore and nearshore units, including FPSOs, FSRUs, FLNGs and more. This broad industry experience encompasses a wide range of offshore projects, highlighting our proficiency in handling complex projects with permanent mooring systems. Committed to supporting the FLNG industry, Bureau Veritas is currently classing the Tango FLNG unit, and has supported the prestigious Prelude and Coral FLNGs during the pre-FEED phase.

UNDERSTANDING BUREAU VERITAS’ GUIDANCE AND EXPERTISE IN FLNG CERTIFICATION

WHY IS CERTIFICATION IMPORTANT?

Certification plays a crucial role in the FLNG industry as it ensures compliance with regulatory standards, promotes safety and enhances the credibility of FLNG projects. By obtaining certification, FLNG operators demonstrate their commitment to quality, safety and environmental stewardship, gaining the confidence of stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

WHAT GUIDANCE DOES BUREAU VERITAS OFFER IN FLNG CERTIFICATION?

Bureau Veritas offers comprehensive guidance in FLNG certification. Our services include compliance verification, risk assessment and expert support in navigating regulatory requirements. We ensure that FLNG projects meet industry standards, adhere to classification society rules, and address safety and environmental considerations. With our expertise and experience, we provide valuable insights and assistance throughout the certification process to enhance safety, reliability and regulatory compliance.

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Jose
Jose
Esteve Otegui

Offshore Gas & Power Market Leader

Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore

Demand for FLNGs in the market is increasing. Offshore asset owners turn to us for certification and guidance, because we can ensure compliance with industry standards. There are a number of unique challenges when it comes to FLNGs. Our expertise and comprehensive services can address those challenges, so owners can safely and efficiently operate their assets in this rapidly evolving sector.

Converting a vessel to an FLNG?