Rotork actuators deliver automation for all-electric North Sea gas platform
Rotork has delivered over 200 electric actuators to ONE-Dyas for its N05-A upstream gas processing platform in the North Sea off the coast of the Netherlands – a world record in offshore automation and emissions savings.
The project incorporates Rotork's Skilmatic SI smart self-contained electro-hydraulic actuators, IQT3 Pro smart part-turn electric actuators and CVA continual unrestricted modulating actuators. The products play a key role in supporting automation and full electrification of the platform.
HSM Offshore was contracted by ONE-Dyas, a Dutch exploration and production operator, to construct the N05-A platform. The plant will process upstream wet natural gas into dry natural gas ready for export through pipelines. Production is expected to commence in the winter of 2024/2025.
Committed to be the North Sea's very first fully electrified gas production platform, N05-A forms ONE-Dyas' near-zero policy with a view to reducing almost all on-location emissions (Scope 1 and 2). Energy supply will primarily be from Riffgat offshore wind farm in proximate German waters.
The plant has been designed as fully automated and usually unmanned. All of the plant equipment will operate automatically with minimal hands-on intervention necessary. This translates to fewer maintenance visits and a dramatic reduction in unscheduled helicopter flights – key components of the near-zero operating plan.
Digital technology and the availability of Rotork's actuators also enhance platform availability and avoid unnecessary shutdowns. In contrast to pneumatic systems requiring a constant supply of compressed air or gas, electric actuators draw power only when they are moving, providing greater energy efficiency.
As part of the project, Rotork also installed its Skilmatic SI actuators on free-issued valves with a factory fit. These were tested and matched at Rotork's Rotterdam Service Centre before being delivered to the HSM Offshore yard.
As the N05-A platform sets a new benchmark for North Sea environmentally friendly gas production, Rotork's actuator technology is right in the middle of this pioneering development.
For further information visit www.rotork.com
