Applus+ in Angola delivers 3D modeling and laser scanning program for offshore assets

The program builds on Applus+ prior delivery of multiple project milestones over a two-year period and reflects continued confidence in the company’s technical capability in offshore data capture, digital modeling, and intelligent asset representation.

The 3D modeling program was initiated to support long-term asset integrity management, improve the accuracy of engineering data, and establish a reliable digital reference for offshore facilities operating in constrained and safety-critical environments.

The scope of work focuses on the digitalisation of offshore platforms and FPSO facilities through a phased approach. Initial activities include offshore inspection and data acquisition using laser scanning and photogrammetry. These datasets are then converted into intelligent E3D models, producing fully navigable digital representations with asset tagging to support engineering, inspection planning, and operational decision-making. The intelligent models are structured to align with existing engineering and maintenance workflows, enabling their use in design reviews, clash detection, inspection planning, and future modification studies without the need for repeated offshore surveys.

Project delivery follows a coordinated international execution model that combines local offshore operations with global technical expertise. Applus+ in Angola leads contract management, offshore mobilisation, data acquisition, logistics, and on-site safety compliance, with field activities carried out by locally based technicians in line with local content requirements. Project management, quality assurance, and governance are supported by Applus+ teams in Europe, while specialist centres in Asia provide point cloud processing, E3D model development, digital twin validation, and final deliverables. Standardised modeling procedures and quality control checks are applied across all execution centres to ensure data consistency, model accuracy, and compatibility with the client’s engineering systems.

The project uses marine-grade, ATEX-certified laser-scanning systems, photogrammetry, and drone-assisted inspection techniques, supported by motion-compensation workflows that address platform movement, congested geometries, and challenging offshore environmental conditions.

The resulting 3D models and digital twins provide accurate virtual representations of offshore facilities, supporting brownfield modifications, engineering studies, inspection planning, and asset integrity management. By enabling virtual access to complex assets, the program reduces offshore exposure and improves planning efficiency.

The delivery framework has been designed to allow the approach to be replicated across additional offshore assets as required, supporting future digitalisation initiatives with minimal disruption to ongoing operations. This case illustrates how structured 3D modeling program can support safer planning, improved data reliability, and more efficient lifecycle management of offshore assets.