Chevron Gas Compression module on cargo barge

Project Summary

In August 1999, three Chevron LL652 modules were transported from the US Gulf to Lake Maraçaibo, Venezuela, using Crowley cargo barges. The modules ranged in weights from 4,500 to 6,000 t. For each tow, design motion response data was provided for the design of the grillage and seafastening. Special attention was paid to the still water and wave deflection of the barge hulls and the effect on the module supports. The photo above shows the departure of the 5,100 t heavy Gas Compression module on the Crowley Barge 411. Upon arrival, the modules were successfully lifted off the barges and installed onto their jacket structures, using the Versatruss system.

Scope of Work

The project scope included:

• Specify design weather criteria for the tows;

• Model the cargo barge hulls for the hydrodynamic analyses;

• Provide the design motion responses for the tows and the resulting design accelerations acting on the modules;

• Calculate still water bending moments and the worst case wave deflection of the barge hulls.

 Acknowledgement

Photograph courtesy of Crowley Marine Services, Inc.