Development and Operation of FSRU Projects (10 Days)

Introduction:

This course on FSRU project development and operation provides a detailed overview of the vertical construction history of Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRUs) and their significance in the gas industry. The introduction of FSRUs has revolutionized the LNG business by offering viable, convenient, and economical means of natural gas importation and storage, making them central to contemporary gas projects.

Participants will explore the nature and rationale behind FSRUs, along with the advantages they offer across various dimensions. The course will examine the FSRU segment, including market dynamics and growth opportunities. The design and construction aspects will focus on how FSRUs are engineered for high efficiency in LNG storage and regasification, facilitating integration with existing energy infrastructures.

Throughout the program, participants will gain knowledge about the different stages of oil and gas project development, emphasizing the design, planning, and implementation of FSRU projects. The course will guide participants through each stage, starting from preliminary feasibility studies to detailed engineering, construction, and operational phases.

By the end of this training, you will be well-acquainted with FSRU gas handling, aware of the benefits of using FSRUs in various locations, and knowledgeable about how these facilities operate successfully within the gas market. Whether you are a professional looking to enhance your skills in FSRU projects or a newcomer eager to learn about this dynamic field, this course will provide valuable knowledge and practical skills.

Objectives:

At the end of this FSRU Project Development and Operation course, participants will be able to:

• Define the FSRU and its immediate objectives.
• Identify the role of FSRUs in the oil and gas sector.
• Recognize the advantages of using FSRUs in the gas project cycle.
• Describe country-specific market demand opportunities for FSRUs.
• Understand aspects of FSRU design and engineering.
• Explain gas handling and regasification processes of FSRUs.
• Plan FSRU project lifecycle management.
• Review FSRU LNG storage and distribution.
• Provide an overview of FSRU applications in oil and gas projects.
• Discuss important phases of gas projects involving FSRUs.
• Outline the scope of gas project development phases.

Training Methodology:

• Interactive lectures
• Case study method
• Group work
• Simulations
• Expert guest speakers
• Evaluation and feedback
• Field visits (if relevant)

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Introduction to LNG – What is LNG

• State LNG meaning and key characteristics.
• Describe rich and lean compositions of LNG.
• Discuss safety and flammability concerns.

Unit 2: LNG Global Trade and Varying Models of Commercialization

• Investigate steam gas and LNG markets.
• Study LNG trade growth and development.
• Assess major consumers of LNG.
• Analyze market characteristics and opportunities for the FSRU fleet.
• Review the LNG contract chain, including sales and purchase agreements and FSRU charters.

Unit 3: Technical Fundamentals

• Explain LNG forms and properties.
• Clarify heating values, Wobbe index, and interchangeability.
• Perform market quality requests for LNG.

Unit 4: FSRU vs Land-Based Import

• Compare CAPEX for FSRU solutions versus land import systems.
• List permitting requirements.
• Identify main port constraints.

Unit 5: Major FSRU Technology Choices

• Evaluate regasification technology methods.
• Discuss production of boil-off gases and re-liquefaction.
• Evaluate LNG pump selection and topside system arrangements.

Unit 6: FSRU Cargo Containment Systems

• Provide an overview of liquefaction systems: membrane, Moss, SPB, and Type C.

Unit 7: LNG Transfer

• Compare ship-to-ship transfer methods: side-by-side and tandem transfer.
• Discuss the use of hard arms versus cryogenic hoses.
• Examine high-pressure gas transfer techniques and custody transfer, metering, and measurement.
• Explore small-scale LNG transfer and bunkering.

Unit 8: FSRU Mooring System Designs

• Present various mooring system configurations for offshore structures, including tower yoke systems, spread mooring, land-supported jetty mooring, and submarine gravity regas structures.

Unit 9: Marine Infrastructure Issues

• Describe breakwater structures and port deepening.
• Examine tugs and pilots within FSRU designs.
• Evaluate new build projects against conversion projects.
• Identify appropriate construction yards and design ships of AtlanticMax, Q-max, and Q-flex types.
• Explore floating storage units (FSUs), floating regas units (FRUs), and other niche FSRU operations, including floating gas-to-power.

Unit 10: FSRU Construction & Constructability

• Define sourcing of long lead items.
• Illustrate normal, conversion, and new structure programs.

Unit 11: FSRU CAPEX and OPEX

• Explain factors affecting capital expenditure and operational costs.
• Highlight common cost elements incurred in OPEX.

Unit 12: FSRU Site Selection Considerations

• Appraise metocean data and water depth requirements.
• Investigate water temperature effects and ecological constraints.

Unit 13: Introduction to LNG Safety

• Discuss past accidents and lessons learned.
• Explain material properties, geometry, layering, and rapid phase shift.
• Consider the balance between design and safety in codes.
• Address permitting and environmental concerns.

Conclusion:

The FSRU course on project development and operation will analyze the overall state of the FSRU sector, covering various technical, project, and business issues involved in the operation of FSRU regasification units.