A FPSO (floating production storage offshore vessel) is a floating production facility installed above or close to an offshore oil and gas field. FPSOs have the ability to receive, process, store and export hydrocarbons.
The FPSO consists of a hull that is new built or converted, and the topside built up of the necessary modules for processing, utilities, water treatment etc. The vessel are tailor made to its first deployment to meet the characteristics of the field where its supposed to operate.
Mooring
Most FPSOs are 'anchored' (moored) by a turret. The type of turret used is determined by the environment of the FPSO. In calmer waters spread mooring is often sufficient. In environments where cyclones or hurricanes occur, disconnectable mooring systems are used so that the vessel can be taken out of the storm's way and replaced when the storm has passed.
Advantages of FPSOs are:
- Earlier cash flow because they are faster to develop than fixed platforms
- Reduced upfront investment
- Storage capabilities and deck load, whereas is limited on Semis
- Suitable for developments in harsher and deeper waters and may have weather warning capabilities.
- Can be relocated to other fields.
What to come
There are currently 46 field development projects that call for an FPSO in the tendering or planned stages with a planned production start before year-end 2013. Of these South America accounts for 30%, West Africa 24% and Southeast Asia 17% (source: FPSbase).