Brent Alpha Topsides Removal

Platform decommissioning
Pioneering Spirit
2.0 Offshore decommissioning - Brent Alpha fast-lift

Single-lift removal of the 17,000-tonne Brent Alpha topsides – third of the four iconic Brent field platform removals – and delivery to the UK for recycling. 

Company : Shell UK 

Location : UK North Sea, 186 km northeast of Lerwick, Shetland 

140 m 

Water depth

Scope of work 

  • Engineering, preparation & removal of 17,000-tonne Brent Alpha topsides 
  • Transfer of topsides from Pioneering Spirit to Iron Lady for load-in to Able UK disposal yard, Hartlepool, England 
  • Pre-lift preparation work (incl. design of underdeck lift points & strengthening of the module support frame) 
  • Cutting & seafastening of the platform legs 
  • Design & fabrication of lifting yokes, support stools & grillage 

17,000-tonne 

Brent Alpha topsides 

Brent Alpha

Specials & challenges 

  • One of the heaviest offshore lifts in history 
  • Efficient design, fabrication & installation of lift points, & strengthening while platform still being decommissioned 
  • Design & fabrication of lift yokes  
  • Modification for reuse of Brent Delta leg support structures 
  • Design, fabrication & installation of shear restraints for topsides stability after leg cutting 
  • Design, fabrication & installation of 3x GBS leg covers & navigation aid 

3x 

GBS leg covers & navigation aid 

2020 Brent Alpha Topsides Removal
2020 Brent Alpha Topsides Removal
Brent
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