- Ocean Installer contracted by Equinor to replace heavy compressor module at the Åsgard field
- Lifts close to 400 tons
- A test lift, offshore simulation training, pre-commissioning, and complex ROV operations are also part of the scope
The modules in the Åsgard Subsea Compression Station were previously installed by North Sea Giant equipped with a purpose-built Special Handling System. The subsea compression system plays a critical role in maintaining the production rate from the Midgard and Mikkel fields. The objective of this project is to replace one compressor module with a new and upgraded compressor module, giving a higher pressure ratio.
The project will commence with a test lift, the objective of which is to test a newly developed module retrieval system consisting of tugger winches and bumper frames designed to stabilize the heavy loads when overboarding the modules. This will be followed by training of the offshore crew and engineering team at the Offshore Simulator Centre in Ålesund before finally the compressor change-out campaign with lifts close to 400 tons.
Pre-commissioning activities and complex ROV operations are also a part of the scope. The extensive engineering preparation has already started, and offshore operations will take place in 2025.
“We are excited to continue working with Equinor under the framework agreement for marine services covering subsea intervention and repair contingency. This is our third award since the agreement was signed one year ago.
“The subsea compression modules are critical to maintaining production, and through this project, we will acquire valuable experience with these complex operations, which will better prepare us for potential future contingency and planned operations,” says Kevin Murphy, Ocean Installer CEO.
