(17b) Inherent Safety - How to Utilize Explosion Hazard Analyses As an Early Tool to Improve FPSO and FLNG Design

For these reasons, the analysis of explosion hazards on FPSOs and FLNGs is a critical step that should accompany the facility development from the very earliest design phase. This paper will discuss how quantitative analyses using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling can be used to optimize the layout of a FPSO facility from a safety perspective. The methodology uses detailed 3D models of FPSO geometry (down to 1-2 inch pipe diameters by incorporating anticipated equipment blocks) within which ventilation, gas dispersion, and vapor cloud explosion scenarios are simulated using a CFD tool. The paper will present study results to compare the effectiveness of a number of design alternatives such as:

• Grated vs. solid decks;
• Safety gap size;
• Process module arrangement;

The paper will demonstrate how CFD-based methodologies can provide FPSO and FLNG designers with critical safety-related design implications previously not available in the early-design phase and help to ensure inherently safer designs. In addition, such studies can help enhance safety by evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation measures such as gas detection.