How hose type can make a difference in STS transfers

Re-evaluating marine hose selection can realise operational and cost benefits in STS transfer operations, Raphael Poquet from Trelleborg tells OGN

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'N the ever-evolving backdrop of the changing oil markets and environmental expectations, energy companies and operators are exploring operational efficiencies that are both responsible and dependable for meeting safe, cost-efficient operations.

This is happening in the Middle East, where the growing use of floating production storage and offloading (FPSOS) logistics solutions like ship-to-ship (STS) transfers are integral to flexible, reliable energy supply chains.

STS transfers enable vessels to exchange liquid cargo offshore. This is particularly useful for large vessels, such as very large crude carrier (VLCC) and ultra large crude carrier (ULCC) which could face draft restrictions in some ports.

It also saves the cost of vessels berthing and mooring at jetties, particularly if a ship has multiple unloading points throughout its journey. The process also enables vessels to avoid port congestion.

The use of marine hoses highlights some intricacies within STS transfer processes. Representing a key component of the process between two tankers, the performance of marine hoses in these unconventional and challenging environments can significantly impact the process's safety, speed, and reliability.

Looking more holistically at STS transfer hoses provides an opportunity to re-evaluate thinking around their function.

Safety and reliability are a given, but there can also be untapped potential to reduce operational costs over a hose's lifetime to maximise overall value.

WALKING THE OPEX & CAPEX TIGHTROPE

STS operations are caught between balancing capital expenditure (capex) and operating expenditure (opex) within energy projects.

This can create a familiar balancing act of meeting objectives to minimise upfront costs whilst still managing equipment's opex over a period of time.