Shell picks Atkins for Prelude FLNG

Oil and gas company Shell has hired Atkins to develop asset integrity models for future inspection and maintenance at Prelude FLNG offshore location in Australia.

Matt Keys, global technical director in Atkins’s oil and gas division, said: “We’re excited to continue contributing towards the flagship Prelude project. We look forward to bringing our 40 years experience in advanced analysis and integrity management of structures to help realise the long term success of FLNG technology.”

Atkins has worked on Australian LNG projects before. The company has supported Chevron’s Gorgon LNG project, Woodside’s Pluto LNG and the INPEX-operated Ichthys project, where Atkins is currently delivering flow assurance services.

As for the development on the Prelude field, located offshore W. Australia, once completed it will be the largest Floating LNG project in the world.

Once operational, the Prelude FLNG facility will produce at least 5.3 million tonnes (mtpa) per annum of liquids: 3.6 mtpa of LNG, 1.3 mtpa of condensate (equivalent to 35,000 bbl/d) and 0.4 mtpa of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).