FPU tow-out and hook-up support for Subsea 7
Project overview
Project name
King’s Quay
Location
Gulf of Mexico
Developer partner
Subsea 7
Solution
FPU tow-out and hook-up support
Moving the 47,000-tonne King’s Quay floating production unit (FPU) from a narrow inland channel to the open Gulf demanded insight, coordination and precision. From early surveys to near real-time tracking, Acteon brought together technology and expertise to navigate complexity with confidence.
Precision under pressure
Navigating a large FPU through confined inland channels posed high-stakes logistical and safety challenges. Success required real-time insights, accurate positioning, and coordination across multiple support vessels to ensure safe transit and precise hook-up offshore.
Our solution
A phased approach from inshore survey to offshore hook-up
To support this high-stakes operation, UTEC, Acteon’s Geo-services business line, delivered integrated positioning and monitoring services from the initial inshore transition to offshore hook-up. Starting with a pre-tow hazard and bathymetric survey of the La Quinta and Corpus Christi Ship Channels, we verified conditions against prior data to confirm a safe passage for the FPU. This early insight allowed us to identify potential issues using 3D visualisation tools, mitigating risk in one of the most critical phases of the project.
Our team deployed GPS-based transmitters across eight tugs and support vessels, with near real-time data from smart sensor technology streamed to a central hub onboard the FPU. Using 4D Nav software, we tracked vessel positions, bearings, tow-line orientation alongside 3D visualisation of the inshore channel including seabed features and clearance.
Following successful navigation through Aransas Pass, we supported mobilisation at Kiewit and the final tow from Ingleside to Green Canyon. Intermoor, Acteon’s Moorings and Anchors business line, managed mooring line pre-lay and offshore hook-up operations. Our proximity to Subsea 7’s Houston base enabled rapid integration and testing, while prior collaboration streamlined contracting and project management.
Innovations in action
- Integrated positioning and monitoring system implemented to ensure the safe and efficient tow-out of the FPU
- GPS transmitters streamed real-time data to a central hub aboard the FPU
- Combined hazard and bathymetric survey conducted to confirm seabed conditions along the route
- Ensured safe and efficient passage through challenging environments based on survey findings
The result
Our experience, advanced equipment and data-driven approach ensured the safe and efficient installation of the FPU in a challenging marine environment. Our solution delivered full visibility and control throughout the FPU tow-out, reducing risks, ensuring schedule alignment and delivering actionable and accurate timely insights. Our data-driven approach helped verify the tow path, optimise the route and safeguard environmental compliance.
Our combined digital and field expertise allowed the project to proceed without incident, providing a solid foundation for future collaboration. Near real-time data and proven processes ensured a confident installation on time and with no environmental impact.
UTEC being part of the Acteon group provided an opportunity to combine the expertise of several companies to provide a complete solution to support the tow out of the FPU to Subsea 7. Throughout the planning and execution, the UTEC team worked closely with the Subsea 7 survey and engineering teams which resulted in the successful tow out and installation of the FPU.
We are proud to have worked on this complex project with Subsea 7 where we were able to apply our experience and expertise in both onshore operations and development, as well the technical proficiency demonstrated by our field staff, to deliver highly accurate survey and positioning services using engineering intelligence and digital technology, resulting in successful project execution with no environmental adverse impacts being encountered. The client was satisfied, and we look forward to collaborating on future project scopes.
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