Optimal Design of FPSO Vessels

Abstract

The evaluation of principal dimensions of a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) system is one of the most critical tasks at the initial design stage of the vessel. It is therefore important to get this right from the onset. This paper presents a simple method of determining the optimal principal dimensions of FPSO vessels of any specified oil storage capacity. An Optimal Design Programme (OPTIMAP) has therefore been developed to analyze and compare the various responses of floating production vessels with the aim of selecting the best possible design to ensure not only a reduction in  cost of construction, but also to maintain a safe operation and overall optimal performance of the vessel with regards to her dynamic responses in deep sea waves