Author: Engport Group Team
Date: April 2024
Category: Success Story
Reading time: 8 minutes
The beginning of 2024 marked one of the most significant projects in our recent history: the complete shutdown of the POSH Arcadia platform during its maintenance shutdown at the Angra dos Reis Port Terminal (TPAR). With a team of over 40 professionals working continuously for 50 days, this project tested – and proved – all of our technical and operational capabilities.
THE CHALLENGE
Offshore platforms are extremely complex environments. Every system is critical, every component has stringent specifications, and the shutdown time is always limited – after all, every day downtime represents a significant loss of revenue for the operator.
In the case of Arcadia, the main challenge revolved around the platform’s thrusters: multi-ton equipment responsible for dynamic positioning. These components require extremely precise and safe lifting procedures. Any error could result in millions of reais in damage or, even worse, serious accidents.
THE ENGPORT SOLUTION
Our approach began weeks before the physical mobilization of the team.
We developed a specific rigging (load handling) procedure after a detailed analysis of the thrusters, available attachment points on the platform, and appropriate lifting equipment.
We performed virtual simulations, calculated loads, defined conservative safety factors, and prepared contingency plans for various scenarios. When the team arrived at TPAR, every step was meticulously planned.
IMPECCABLE EXECUTION
During the 50-day project, our team executed:
Lifting of the Thrusters:
- Safe lifting of 6 thruster units
Structural Services:
- Assembly of 200m² of certified scaffolding for access Safe
- Boilermaking: fabrication and installation of customized structural supports
- Qualified welding at multiple points of the structure
Technical Inspections:
- IRATA team performed inspections in tanks and confined spaces
- NDT inspections (ultrasound, magnetic particles) on critical welds
- Complete photographic documentation for record
HSE Management:
- More than 40 men working
- Zero accidents
- 100% compliance with POSH safety procedures
TECHNICAL INNOVATION
One of the highlights of the project was the improvement implemented in the thruster lifting system. Our team identified opportunities for optimization in the traditional procedure, proposing modifications that significantly increased the safety of the operation and reduced execution time by approximately 30%.
This innovation was formally documented and recognized by POSH, which incorporated our improvements into its standard procedures for future shutdowns.
TANGIBLE RESULTS
✅ Project completed on time: 50 days as planned
✅ Zero accidents: Total safety for over 40 employees
✅ 100% QA/QC approval: All inspections approved on the first attempt
✅ Formal customer recognition: Letter of recommendation issued by POSH
✅ Strengthened relationship: Solid foundation for future projects
LESSONS LEARNED
Offshore projects require meticulous planning, an experienced team, and the ability to adapt quickly when unforeseen events arise. Our 25+ years of experience in the sector was fundamental in anticipating challenges, preparing solutions, and executing with confidence.
More importantly, this project reinforced the importance of our core values - safety above all, unwavering commitment to deadlines, and uncompromising technical excellence.
THE FUTURE
The success at Arcadia opened doors for new projects with POSH and consolidated our position as a reliable partner for platform shutdowns. We are already executing similar work on other units in the POSH fleet and expanding our operations to other offshore operators. For us at the Engport Group, each project is an opportunity to prove our value and build long-term relationships. Arcadia was just another chapter in a story we’ve been writing for over two decades – and the best chapters are yet to come.
Interested in learning more about our offshore capabilities? Contact us to discuss your next project.