Unique Reliability Based Method Applied in the Development of Hull Risk-Based Inspection Across a Floating Production Fleet

Abstract

The development of asset specific Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) programs has many benefits in managing the integrity of the asset over the course of its service life, and even beyond into life extension. The challenges that Operator's run into with RBI program development are bringing a consistent and repeatable approach to the initial risk development across a fleet of assets and linking the risk with inspection frequency. bp has taken the initiative to support the development of a unique reliability-based methodology for understanding the effects of general corrosion, fatigue, and local corrosion on hull structures to estimate the initial likelihood of structural repairs or failures. This approach has been successfully applied in the development of RBI programs on eight bp production units, including semi-submersibles, spars, and Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units operating in the Gulf of Mexico, North Sea, and West Africa.