Detailed design of Azeri Central East (ACE) drilling facilities for bp
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LocationCaspian Sea, Azerbaijan Sector
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Customerbp
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Time Scale2017-2024
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DetailsFEED and Detailed Engineering and Design
Scope
Greenfield Engineering Excellence
Following the successful completion of a competitive FEED (Front End Engineering Design) phase, we were subcontracted to deliver the Detailed Engineering and Design for bp’s ACE Drilling Facilities in the Caspian Sea.
The scope included the Drilling Equipment Set (DES), Modular Drilling Support Module (MDSM), and integration of these modules into the concurrent topsides design.
From FEED through to ‘Approved for Construction’ status, our remit covered the following disciplines:
- Process
- Technical Safety
- Weight Reporting
- Drilling Operations
- Structural
- Piping & Layout
- Supports
- Mechanical & HVAC
- Architectural
- Electrical
- Instrumentation / Fire & Gas
- Telecoms
Professionals delivering multi‑discipline engineering from FEED to offshore hook‑up.
Overview
Integrated delivery
bp adopted a supplier-led solution, entrusting subcontractors with engineering and equipment/materials supply, while we provided multi-discipline support during construction and commissioning at the integration yard and continued through offshore installation and hook-up until operational readiness.
At peak, we had a team of 80 professionals working on the project, including seasoned management and engineering experts supported by a multi-discipline group of designers and engineers. Many team members had previously contributed to successful greenfield projects, reinforcing continuity and trust.
We developed a comprehensive 3D model using Aveva E3D and executed HAZID, HAZOP and multiple design reviews focused on constructability, operability and maintainability.
The facilities are now operated and maintained by H&P, our sister-company, on behalf of bp.
“This is the ninth world-class production platform that we have built, installed, and are operating offshore Azerbaijan. ACE really stands out with its engineering creativity, advanced digital technology, and automation.”
Gary Jones
bp Regional President for Azerbaijan,
Georgia and Türkiye
Compliance and standards
- DNVGL-OS-E101, “Drilling Plant”, July 2015
- DNVGL-OS-A101 Edition January 2017, “Safety Principles and Arrangements”
- DNVGL-OS-A301 Edition April 2016, “Human Comfort”
Performance objectives
The key objectives were to execute the work to robust design and HSE standards so the drilling facilities would meet the highest levels of operational performance.
- Inherently safe design
- Operational efficiency and reliability
- Certainty of outcome
- Weight minimisation
Safety and reliability
The key project drivers of Inherently Safe Design and Operational Efficiency/ Reliability was realized by taking the following main actions throughout design execution.
- Our design team took an operator’s perspective design approach
- We incorporate lessons learned from previous projects across the globe
- We optimized automation & mechanisation to minimise human intervention and constantly were monitoring the red zone
- Areas of high occupancy were located close to safe areas
- Emission sources were located away from areas of high occupancy
- Our highly experienced operations, rig and maintenance teams were always available to provide valuable input during design reviews, HAZID, HAZOP, 3D Model Reviews and input to key deliverables
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