SBM Offshore announced the signing of a contract with Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. (SWS) and China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Ltd. (CSTC), both subsidiaries of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), to build the seventh Fast4Ward® multipurpose hull (MPF7). The agreement strengthens the company’s standardization strategy to accelerate the development of future floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units.
A design prepared for future offshore projects
The MPF7 will utilize the standard Fast4Ward® hull design, developed by SBM Offshore to adapt to diverse operating conditions in offshore projects worldwide. This floating platform can be integrated into FPSO units with a storage capacity of up to 2.3 million barrels of crude oil, offering flexibility for various deepwater developments.
Likewise, the new hull will retain the improvements implemented in the previous generation, including accommodation for up to 240 people and a design aligned with international industry standards for safety, environmental protection and crew habitability.
Standardization promotes competitiveness
With this contract, SBM Offshore adds its thirteenth MPF hull order since the launch of its Fast4Ward® program. The company believes this model reduces risks during project execution, optimizes construction processes, and improves productivity through the use of a pre-developed design.
Øivind Tangen, CEO of SBM Offshore, stated that the contract award reflects the company’s confidence in the offshore market’s prospects and the value of strategic alliances with its industrial partners. He explained that the experience gained with each new hull allows for increased quality of execution while reducing the uncertainties inherent in large-scale energy developments.
SWS strengthens a long-term alliance
For Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, this project represents the seventh FPSO hull built for SBM Offshore. Its president, Chen Gang, stated that the company will leverage its expertise in shipbuilding and industrial management to deliver the new vessel to high standards of quality, safety, and environmental performance.
The continuation of this collaboration reflects the consolidation of a strategic relationship between both companies to meet the growing demand for floating solutions for offshore oil and gas projects.
SBM Offshore expands its capacity for the offshore market
SBM Offshore is one of the world’s leading providers of deepwater offshore infrastructure. The company develops floating production solutions that encompass the design, construction, installation, and operation of offshore units throughout their entire lifecycle.
With a workforce of over 8,000 professionals, the company also continues to expand its involvement in initiatives linked to the blue economy and the development of energy solutions with lower carbon emissions.
Source and photo: Sbmoffshore
