Lifua A
This platform, a stacked template structure (STS), was fabricated entirely in Angola, showcasing a strong emphasis on local craftmanship and innovation
Making it Happen
Explore the depths of this groundbreaking project and discover the engineering excellence behind its success.
Project BAckground
Built for our Partners
The Lifua A project is a collaborative effort led by Cabinda Gulf Oil Company (Chevron), with key partners including Sonangol EP, TotalEnergies, and Eni, all holding significant stakes in Angola's offshore Block 0. The platform was fabricated by ALGOA Cabinda Fabrication Services.Together, these companies have driven the successful development of Lifua A, a milestone in marginal field production and offshore innovation.
The Project
The Lifua A project involved the phased development of the Lifua field, with the Lifua A platform as the initial phase. This platform features a robust steel jacket foundation, engineered to withstand harsh marine conditions, and a topside configured for optimal operational workflows. Key components include advanced extraction modules and integrated process systems. The Lifua A platform plays a critical role in tapping into the field's estimated recoverable reserves of over 200 million barrels.
Fabrication Metrics
Fabrication Capabilities and Execution
ALGOA Cabinda Fabrication Services was responsible for the fabrication of both the bottom and topside platform components. With over 580,000 labor hours invested, the team successfully completed the project on time, despite the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Fabrication Metrics
Platform Weight: Over 1,145 metric tons of fabricated steel.
Production Metrics:
Over 15 kilometers of welds, all subjected to 100% Non-Destructive Testing (NDT).
Surface Treatment: A three-coat epoxy system, offering a corrosion protection lifespan exceeding 25 years.
Manpower Deployment: Approximately 400 personnel, with a focus on employing and training Angolan nationals.
Infrastructure Investment: Over $3 million invested in facilities, including HGG CNC Beam & Pipe Cutting machines and advanced welding systems
Innovative Modular Construction: To meet the project’s tight timeline, Algoa Cabinda adopted a modular construction strategy. Components were pre-assembled and inspected before integration, ensuring structural integrity and simplifying offshore installation.
Challenges and Resilience During COVID-19
Executing a project of this scale during the COVID-19 pandemic required resilience and adaptive strategies:
Health and Safety Protocols: Daily health screenings, onsite sanitization, and staggered shifts minimized the risk of onsite transmission.
Supply Chain Management: Proactive procurement and alternative sourcing strategies reduced material lead times by 30%, ensuring uninterrupted progress.
Despite these challenges, ALGOA achieved a zero Lost Time Incident (LTI) record, reflecting the company’s commitment to safety and excellence.
Project Overview
The Lifua A Platform
Located in Angola’s offshore Block 0 concession, the Lifua A platform is part of Chevron’s broader strategy to unlock marginal reserves economically. Installed at a water depth of 70 meters, approximately 23 kilometers off the Angolan coast, Lifua A serves as a Stacked Template Structure (STS) designed to accommodate ten well slots, configured for six production wells and four water injection wells. The platform taps into the Vermelha and Likouala reservoirs and is interconnected with existing facilities in the Takula area to optimize resource utilization. With a production capacity of 1,033 cubic meters of oil per day, Lifua A exemplifies the potential of marginal fields when supported by innovative engineering and local expertise.
One Integrated Solution
ALGOA Cabinda Fabrication Services was a dedicated partner from project inception to completion, providing end-to-end support in engineering, fabrication, and offshore deployment, ensuring the Lifua A platform's success at every stage.