Filters offers robust solution for harsh offshore operating conditions

For two offshore operators, the Plenty brand was the obvious choice to meet their needs for new FPSOs.

The first project involved two backflush seawater filters and two sets of heating, cooling, fuel gas and diesel fine cartridge filters for a new FPSO being built to boost production capacity in the North Sea.  The fully customised units use a mix of materials from carbon steel and 316L SS to exotic super duplex stainless steel materials to meet harsh environmental conditions and are supplied with full QA and offshore documentation.

These automated backflush seawater intake filters remove debris down to 570 microns nominally including sand, shells and other particles, from the uplift pumps. Constructed of super duplex stainless steel, these hard-working filters are designed for continuous water flow without manual intervention through a reliable, positive and efficient cleaning action using an automatic cleaning cycle that is triggered based on either pressure drop across the unit, timer or manual intervention. A collector arm connected to the backwash outlet passes over the complete filtration screen cleaning as it rotates inside the element. Pressure within the strainer body is higher than the pressure in the backwash outlet pipe and so induces a flow of water in the reverse direction through the element, effectively flushing away all accumulated debris. This system means water flow is not interrupted and no external water supply is required for cleaning.

Another project for an FPSO destined for South American waters comprised three 14” cartridge filters for the SRP (Sulphate Recovery Package) systems, designed to remove debris down to ten microns. Working with a UK upstream water solutions specialist to provide the complete filtration package, the cartridge filters were supplied with market-leading GD closures in a horizontal orientation. Shipped at the end of 2018, the units are again manufactured from super duplex stainless steel and supplied with full documentation and QA packages to meet operator and regulatory requirements.

The success of the Plenty filtration range for offshore applications is due to the reliability and robust nature of the solutions provided. SPX FLOW’s experience with the requirements for offshore packages and DNV GL standards for ships and offshore structures means it is well placed to engineer units to required specification and deliver projects in a timely manner with all necessary supporting documentation. Its particular expertise in manufacturing in exotic, high-end materials offers further benefits for operators looking for units that offer long, reliable operation to protect their assets for many years to come.