Flashback project: pipe racks for Kupe Gas Field – Grayson Engineering

Kupe Gas Field lies 30km offshore in the Taranaki Basin and was sparked into development following a decline in production at the nearby Maui field.  Executed under a Joint Venture (JV) between Origin Energy and Technip, Robert Stone were contracted as the main provider for the production plant.

 

Situation

To successfully meet program requirements, specialist expertise with facilities large enough to handle the sheer size of the eight pipe racks were needed – all delivered within a strict timeline.

Earmarked for oil and gas use, stringent quality assurance and welding standards were needed due to higher petrochemical test regimes.  This also meant appropriate surface protection for fire, insulation, environment, operating temperatures and general wear across the pipelines design life was required.

Once fabricated – the modules running 210m in length, 8m in width and 10m height had to be transported efficiently from Auckland to Taranaki without compromising traffic flows and road safety.

 

Solution

With a strong track record in producing heavy section and welding projects, Grayson’s confidently handled the 840 tonne of structural steel and 350 tonne of pipe spooling – delivering within a tight 10 month time frame utilising their workshop capability to autonomously and cost effectively process works.

Their project team undertook training to become qualified at NZS 4711 and AS/NZS1554 Part 5 for high risk structure and tolerances, working closely with the JV’s quality assurance manager to deliver mandated structures, also securing fully independent third party verification of all works and reporting as well.

Multiple comparative analyses of paint specifications and manufacture guidelines were carried out, with the most cost effective and appropriate coating to mitigate corrosion, fire and heat selected – reducing long term maintenance needs and module design life.

To overcome transport challenges, Grayson’s precision fabrication of each module in a top and bottom section ensured a perfect fit on install – while allowing structures to be broken into more manageable sizes for travel to Taranaki.  All achieved via a special route overnight to accommodate wide loads – significantly reducing impact to traffic flow.