Planning a topsides takeover

The design of the complete topsides for an unmanned wellhead structure for the North Sea is now taking shape. The design will be based on the wholesale use of composites such as glass fiber in resin binder rather than the usual steel. The topsides will never be built. It is purely a design study to allow the potential of composites to be explored, according to Mark Staunton-Lambert of the Centre for Marine and Petroleum Technology. Composites offer lightness, resistance to corrosion and chemicals, insulating properties, low maintenance needs and the ability to tailor a part's properties to its use. The topsides design study is discussed in detail. Most observers agree that it should not be more difficult to win certification for composite structures offshore used in place of steel designs. There are many industry initiatives to improve the use and understanding of composites.