SBM Offshore FPSO cooling technology gains ABS approval
(WO) — SBM Offshore has received a Statement of Maturity from American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for its Seawater Intake Riser technology, a subsea cooling system designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions on floating production units.
Developed in collaboration with Shell, the Seawater Intake Riser (SWIR) system pumps colder seawater from approximately 700 m below the ocean surface to FPSO topsides for cooling and power-generation applications.
According to SBM Offshore, the technology can improve onboard cooling efficiency, reduce fuel gas consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions depending on field conditions and process requirements.
ABS evaluated the system through its New Technology Qualification program, which assesses emerging technologies through structured engineering review, testing and validation processes. The Statement of Maturity indicates the technology has progressed to a stage suitable for incorporation into production facilities.
“SWIR’s development reflects SBM Offshore’s innovation leadership and its commitment to supporting the emission reduction journey,” said Laurent Le Touzé, technology and product development director at SBM Offshore.
The qualification milestone follows completion of a six-month prototype testing campaign in 2025 witnessed by ABS, Shell and Petrobras.
“Completing the prototype validation stage is a testament to the strength of our collaborative relationship with SBM Offshore and our collective dedication to engineering excellence and safety,” said Leile Froufe, vice president of engineering at ABS.
Shell said the technology could contribute to process optimization and lower-emission offshore production systems.
“We are optimistic about the promising results achieved by the sea water intake system project,” said Eli Gomes, technology project manager at Shell Brasil.
The project received support through Shell Brasil under Brazil’s National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels research, development and innovation investment framework.
