Through innovative products and an eagerness to collaborate, Lokring has helped drive down costs at a major oil and gas project in Europe.
In 2015, ConocoPhillips (CoP) commissioned a study to define a solution and provide a cost estimate for the Murdoch oil platform in the United Kingdom Continental Shelf (UKCS).
The post-study proposal included a combination of new and existing routes in some sections, the installation and replacement of prefabricated spools such as fabricated piping and fittings (supplied with sufficient green) joined offshore using Lokring couplings and flanges. The proposal cost an estimated $1.18 million, and was issued for approval.
However, the estimate was challenged by CoP due to budgetary constraints. As a cost saving option, the following amendments to the plan were proposed:
- To remove the offshore destruct scope for existing diesel piping
- A number of pipe supports were to be constructed offshore using unistruts
- Eliminate onshore fabrication costs by utilising Lokring fittings (elbow and tees).
The contractor collaborated with Lokring to supply LTCS Lokring fittings for this proposal, which were not part of the company’s standard product range. This involved discussions with Lokring’s design office in the US.
Due to delivery constraints and associated costs, it was decided to use SS Lokring fittings (Lokring’s standard offering) and a replacement SS316/L system. With the help of Lokring, these changes reduced costs by roughly $485,000. The revised proposal was issued for review and was subsequently approved.
In parallel, the contractor proposed further cost reduction by using non-impacted Lokring fittings (standard offering), however there were challenges with pressure equipment regulation. After series of discussions and collaboration with CoP TA, CoP Engineers, and asset OIM, these challenges were overcome, resulting in even greater savings.
For more information, visit the Lokring website.
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