The objective of FLEX LNG is to commercialize the world's first floating natural gas liquefaction units. Safetec uses their long experience in performing Safety and Reliability studies when they cooperate with FLEX LNG to get the units to comply with legislative and project requirements and guidance. Four units in total are planned for, and ordered from Samsung Heavy Industries.
Safetec has the last year been cooperating with FLEX LNG, starting with facilitating HAZIDs and HAZOPs. When performing the different Safety and Reliability studies, it has been important for the outcome that all relevant parties have been involved.
The Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) has received particular attention when designing the LNGPs. The FSA performed by Safetec includes the following parts:
• Fire loads and simulation studies
• Explosion loads and simulations studies
• Gas dispersion and vent studies
• Flare stack sizing
• Collision studies
• Dropped object studies
• Marine events studies
• LNG Hazards assessment
• Quantitative Risk Analysis (QRA)
• Escape, Evacuation and Rescue (EER) analysis
• Individual risk for personnel
• As Low As Reasonable Practicable (ALARP) review
A Reliability, Availability and Maintainability (RAM) study has been performed to calculate the production availability for the topside and hull facilities of one of LNGPs. The main contributors to production loss, in addition to other critical systems, is subject to a more detailed study with respect to operation, maintenance and spare parts philosophy through an adjusted Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA).
The safety automated systems have been assessed through Safety Integrity Level (SIL) workshops.
Safetec has a high focus on quality when assisting FLEX LNG in performing the Safety and Reliability studies for these LNGPs. For Safetec this project is really challenging and stimulating, and helps in developing the company in both technology expertise and in cooperation between all disciplines. Safetec is looking forward to further cooperation with Flex LNG in many years to come, and whishes them all the best for their floating LNGP development!
