The system is designed for Vision Zero crude oil ship-to-ship operations, to mitigate risks to crew at mooring stations and hose manifolds from uncontrolled breakaways.
In the oil ship-to-ship transfer industry, cargo transfer operations are currently carried out with no passive or active protection- Camlock fittings allow for a quicker manual disconnection, but problems and risks still remain in emergency disconnection situations.
To combat these issues, SafeSTS has collaborated with Gall Thomson to launch the Protective Transfer System (PTX).
Utilising the flip-flap marine breakaway coupling technology, the PTX offers rapid and safe on-demand release within the marine hose transfer system, safeguarding offshore oil transfer operations against emergency scenarios.
Captain Robert Gilchrist, marine director of SafeSTS, said, "The PTX is a step-change in the STS transfer market, and this innovation supports our strategy for ‘Vision Zero' whereby the overall system protects itself against critical incident to people or the environment in the event of breakaway.
"Safety is not always free, but it does not have to be expensive, and investment needs to continue into ways to reduce incidents, and the consequences of incidents, in an STS environment."
The PTX can be installed directly over the vessel's manifold drip tray, minimising the risk of spills and providing 100% leak-tight shut off following closure, protecting the environment from possible damage from spills.
Gall Thomson's business development director, Fred Boufennane commented, "We are delighted to bring the PTX to market in conjunction with SafeSTS. It is yet another example of the on-going Gall Thomson research and development program delivering solutions based on the evolution of proven technology combined with real-world experience."
"The PTX is exclusively offered into the offshore STS market by SafeSTS from where full details are now available."
