The turret is part of FLNG’s mooring system, which will allow Prelude to remain secure and stable over the Prelude gas field through adverse weather conditions by pivoting or 'weathervaning' about its turret. “Designed in Monaco, built in Dubai, shipped to South Korea and for use off Australia, the turret is an example of the truly global nature of this project,” said Matthias Bichsel, Shell projects & technology director.
Khamis Juma Buamim, chairman of Drydocks World and Maritime World stated, “Drydocks World Dubai is proud to be part of this important milestone in offshore gas liquefaction and to be involved in such a prestigious, record-breaking project. In constructing the world’s largest Turret for the global gas industry,we have maintained our stringent quality and safety standardsto mitigate all risks and hazards"
Once completed, Prelude FLNG will be capable of both producing and liquefying natural gas at sea, and then transferring it to LNG carriers. The facility will allow Shell to serve worldwide customers an annual 3.6m tonnes of LNG directly from the source, 200 km off the northwest coast of Australia, for 25 years.
“Prelude FLNG combines our many years of experience in shipping and in managing complex LNG and offshore projects," said Bichsel. "It’s great to see our innovative designs and technologies become a reality as we reach significant project milestones like this.”
Preperations for the sail away
The turret leaving Drydocks World yard in Dubai
The turret sails away from Dubai bound for South Korea