ABB Secures Major Order for FPSO Vessels in Brazil

ABB, a global leader in electrical equipment and automation solutions, has announced a significant order from Seatrium, a marine engineering solutions provider based in Singapore, for the supply of equipment on new FPSO vessels for Petrobras, the Brazilian oil and gas giant.

The two FPSO vessels, named P-84 and P-85, will be deployed in the Atapu and Sépia fields, located off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. ABB will be responsible for designing and constructing the electrical equipment, substation automation, and eHouses for both vessels.

State-of-the-Art Technologies

Petrobras will be utilizing ABB’s advanced technologies, including the ABB Ability System 800xA and IEC 61850, for substation automation. These technologies ensure seamless interoperability between devices and enhance operational efficiency and system reliability.

Notably, the P-84 and P-85 vessels will feature an all-electric concept, focusing on efficient power generation and increased energy efficiency. Electrically driven compressors and motors will be used to produce a power generation capacity of 165 MW.

Furthermore, ABB’s innovative three Is-limiter configuration will be employed for the first time offshore. This configuration is crucial for managing short circuits effectively, ensuring the safety and reliability of the vessels’ electrical systems.

Manufacturing and Construction

The FPSO topside systems will be constructed in ABB’s Singapore facility and installed in ABB eHouses, prefabricated substations designed to house critical power equipment. Additionally, ABB’s Sorocaba factory in Brazil will manufacture the UniGear ZS1 switchboard for distributing electric power safely and reliably in demanding applications.

Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “The offshore energy industry requires innovative solutions and technologies, at scale and at pace, to support an effective and secure energy market. With our ability to meet advanced technical requirements and high safety standards, along with our deep commitment to energy efficiency, we look forward to working with Seatrium on this large scale and complex project.”

Project Timeline

Construction of the P-84 and P-85 FPSO vessels began in 2024, with ABB’s eHouses expected to be delivered by 2027. Each vessel will have a production capacity of 225,000 barrels of oil per day, contributing significantly to Petrobras’ offshore operations.

Overall, ABB’s collaboration with Seatrium on these cutting-edge FPSO vessels underscores the company’s commitment to delivering innovative solutions for the offshore energy industry.