Applus + Velosi in Kuwait was awarded a Third Party Inspection (TPI) contract for the Shuaiba Oil Pier Rehabilitation and Fender Replacement Project

Following the successful completion of the refinery desulphurization (Clean Fuels) project, our client needed to refurbish its Shuaiba export pier. Constructed in 1955, the pier had deteriorated significantly and required a range of inspection techniques prior to re-commissioning.

This is one of the first marine projects in Kuwait to require TPI. Applus+ Velosi not only completed the project to the client’s satisfaction, but also alerted the client to the extent of the structural damage, which was far greater than initially anticipated. The management decided that under the original scope of work the structure would not survive the expected life-extension period, and adjusted the scope of work accordingly.

This was a special project because the client requested a single inspector to bring expertise in concrete repairs, welding, coating, underwater coating, cathodic protection and inspection in a marine environment.

Inspecting the subsea and splash zone sections was a particular challenge because of the sea conditions and the effects of seawater on the coatings and steel structures.

Once this project is completed, the export pier will survive another 20 years; and Applus+ Velosi in Kuwait will have established a reputation for performing TPI for complicated marine projects.