TtEC completed a feasibility study to determine alternative methods of providing an offshore berth, breakwater, pier and trestle to offload LNG carriers with capacities ranging from 65,000 to 160,000 cubic meters. The study compiled wind and wave data for the region and applied numerical modeling techniques to propagate the waves to the proposed site and evaluate the sheltering effects of proposed breakwater configurations.

It also estimated the annual berth availability for exposed and breakwater-protected berth configurations. As part of the study, TtEC evaluated 10 alternatives that included conventional rubble mound breakwaters, submerged reef-type breakwaters, and caisson structures that would be locally constructed or constructed in nearby port facilities and floated into place. Additionally, the study addressed the use of improved technology in LNG unloading arms that would potentially allow unloading under more severe wave conditions than currently allowed.

Project Highlights

• Developed a site-specific wind and wave climate and berth availability analysis
• Developed 10 breakwater/terminal options with comparative performance and cost analysis
• Evaluated local rock quarries and construction support facilities