Conversion (FPSO)

An FPSO conversion turns an existing oil tanker, usually a single-hull or aging VLCC, into a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading unit by stripping cargo systems, renewing or reinforcing the hull for permanent station-keeping life, and adding a process topsides module, a turret or spread mooring, and an offloading system. Conversion lead time is shorter than a purpose-built newbuild and reuses the tanker’s storage volume; the trade-off is a hull never designed for 20-plus years on station without dry-docking and the fatigue that brings. The hull undergoes heavy steel renewal and class re-rating before topsides integration. Petrobras built its early Campos Basin fleet this way.