Float-over installations offer opportunities to install heavy topsides without using crane vessels on fixed structures and floating platforms.

Method

• Outfitting of barge, load-out and seafastening
• Transportation to offshore site
• Mooring the cargobarge at the structure
• Topside setdown by means of rapid deballasting of the cargo barge
• Tow out of the cargo barge

Savings

In comparing float-over installation with other installation methods or field concepts, the following items should be reviewed to establish an overall cost saving picture:

• Offshore hook-up cost and planning
• Transportation costs (one barge versus several barges)
• Fabricator load-out capacity/restrictions
• Barge outfitting aids
• Availability of equipment
• Risks (weather downtime, equipment failure, safety aspects etc.)

Projects / Experience
A complete list of float-over projects and studies, executed by HMC. Read more »

Equipment
Float-over projects require special equipment like barges, fendering systems, mooring and docking systems. An overview and pictures can be found here. Read more »
 

View a float-over
Link to Malampaya video
 

Contact
Any questions with regards to HMC's Float-over experience can be sent to Tom Frijns
(tfrijns@hmc-heerema.com).