In a remarkable feat of engineering prowess, Mammoet, a global leader in heavy lifting and transport, has triumphed in the meticulous task of weighing and skidding a colossal 10,200-ton topside module. This high-stakes endeavor was undertaken for Seatrium Singapore, formerly known as Sembcorp Singapore, and is a pivotal component of Shell’s ambitious Whale Field Floating Production Unit (FPU), destined for deployment in the Gulf of Mexico.
The Whale Field FPU stands as a testament to modern maritime engineering, embodying a four-column semi-submersible floating hull onto which the imposing topside module is integrated. With the combined weight of the FPU looming at a staggering 25,000 tons, the successful execution of the weighing and skidding operation is a decisive milestone in the project’s timeline.
Central to the achievement were Mammoet’s cutting-edge skidding equipment, which included an array of specialized components:
- 24 x 650t Skid Shoes: These heavy-duty skid shoes provided the essential support and stability required for the intricate loadout.
- 12 Push-Pull Units: The deployment of push-pull units exemplifies the precision with which Mammoet navigated this complex operation, ensuring the load was maneuvered with utmost accuracy.
- 4 x 135m Skid Tracks: The extensive skid tracks played a crucial role in guiding the colossal topside module through its intricate journey.
- 12 Link and Transport Beams: These beams facilitated seamless coordination and distribution of the load’s weight, contributing to the overall success of the task.
The adept utilization of this remarkable assembly enabled Mammoet’s team to execute the topside maneuver with remarkable precision, solidifying their reputation as industry trailblazers. The accomplishment not only underscores Mammoet’s exceptional technical capabilities but also showcases their commitment to undertaking projects of unparalleled complexity.
Seatrium Singapore’s choice to entrust Mammoet with this mission-critical endeavor underscores the latter’s stature as a reliable partner in executing monumental projects. The triumphant weighing and skidding operation paves the way for the forthcoming stages of the Whale Field FPU project, setting the stage for a groundbreaking offshore venture that will redefine maritime engineering in the Gulf of Mexico.
This successful endeavor serves as a resounding testament to the collaborative synergy between Mammoet and Seatrium Singapore, encapsulating the future possibilities that arise when expertise and innovation converge on the high seas.
