The Central Metering & Manifold Platform (CMMP) represents a critical component of the Iraq Crude Oil Export Expansion Project (ICOEEP), undertaken for South Oil Company with SAIPEM as the main contractor. TECON provided comprehensive detail design services for both the jacket substructure and topside facilities of this strategically important offshore installation.

Located at the Al Basra Oil Terminal (ABOT) in the northern Persian Gulf at a water depth of 27.5 meters, the CMMP serves as a vital link in Iraq’s expanded crude oil export infrastructure. This normally unmanned platform is connected to existing ABOT facilities via a trussed bridge and features dedicated boat landing facilities for maintenance access.

Project Scope

The CMMP facility encompasses a comprehensive offshore structure designed to handle critical metering and manifold operations. The project involved detailed engineering of both the substructure and topside components, including all primary and secondary structural elements necessary for safe operation in the challenging Persian Gulf environment.

Jacket Substructure Design

• Fixed lattice jacket with rectangular configuration measuring 46m x 50m in plan
• Vertical main rows without batter, featuring an open bay for mating operations
• Foundation system comprising eight 60-inch outer diameter piles driven through legs
• Pile-to-jacket connection via internal annulus grouting for enhanced structural integrity
• Nine risers (48-inch outer diameter) and five J-tubes positioned outside main structural rows
• Protective riser guard system designed to withstand potential boat impacts
• Comprehensive design analysis including in-service, fatigue, load-out, transportation, lifting, and mating phases
• Advanced structural assessments including push-over and boat impact analyses

Topside Facilities Design

• Two-level structural configuration with overall dimensions of 70m x 79m
• Open frame system engineered to support 48-inch pipeline infrastructure
• Integrated crane support structure for lifting operations
• Two-story technical building housing essential operational equipment and control systems
• Complete secondary structure design including flooring, stairs, walkways, and equipment supports
• Purpose-designed crane pedestal for safe lifting operations

Marine Operations Engineering

• Specialized load-out support frame design for both jacket and topside components
• Comprehensive barge stability analysis ensuring safe transportation
• Sea-fastening system design to secure structures during marine transit
• Coordination of lifting, mating, and installation procedures

Engineering Approach

TECON’s engineering team delivered a comprehensive detailed design package addressing all phases of the platform lifecycle. The structural design methodology incorporated rigorous analysis techniques to ensure the platform meets international offshore standards and can withstand the environmental conditions of the Persian Gulf. Particular attention was paid to fatigue performance, given the cyclic loading from waves and operational activities, as well as accidental load scenarios including boat impacts to the riser guard system.

The design process integrated considerations for fabrication, transportation, and installation, ensuring constructability while maintaining structural efficiency. Secondary structures including boat landings, fenders, caissons, riser clamps, mud mats, and walkways were designed to facilitate safe operations and maintenance activities throughout the platform’s service life.