FPSO Refit & Redeploy

Client: Petrobras (via Shipyard and EPC Consortium)

Challenge

Facing an aging fleet and evolving reservoir demands, the operator sought to determine whether an existing FPSO could be removed from service, upgraded, and redeployed within a 12-month window—without extensive hull work. The challenge was to execute this ambitious turnaround while maintaining safety, minimizing downtime, and adapting the topsides for a completely new production environment.

Solution

Avantex Energy led the development and execution of a fit-for-purpose upgrade strategy that included:

Topside Reconfiguration: Upgraded or replaced processing equipment to meet the reservoir profile of the new deployment.
Hull Assessment: Minimal strengthening required, enabling reuse of the existing structure with limited life extension works.
Logistics & Planning: Equipment procurement and staging coordinated precisely to meet the narrow construction timeline.
Shipyard Execution: Drydock works planned in close partnership with the Singapore shipyard to avoid delays.
Execution Efficiency: Over 2,500 personnel managed across multiple work fronts—including simultaneous multi-deck activity—without incident.

Added Value

Delivered full upgrade and relocation scope on schedule and under budget.
Achieved zero safety incidents—even during high-density, multi-level construction phases.
Completed end-to-end transition from shutdown to restart in under 12 months, setting a benchmark for FPSO redeployment timelines.

Key Metrics

Planning Duration 24 months

Execution Timieline 12 months (from shutdown to first oil)

Peak Workforce >2,500 personnel during yard works

Safety Record 0 incidents or lost-time accidents

Operational Outcome Fully redeployed FPSO without unplanned outages