Sigma Offshore has underpinned the growth strategy behind its innovative mooring and fluid transfer system for offshore oil and gas vessels by securing patents in a series of key international markets.

United Kingdom-based Sigma Offshore has obtained European, Chinese, Australian and Canadian patents for its Smart Mooring System (SMS), the focal point of a multi-million pound development programme by the business.

They add to a US patent secured by the company last year for a system that represents a cost-efficient and timesaving solution for FPSOs (Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessels) and other vessels which require both mooring and fluid loading and unloading in medium to deep water.

Sigma Offshore’s Chief Technology Officer David Galbraith said: “Patents are absolutely central to protecting our commercial interests, and bolstering the operational credentials of our business – and SMS – internationally.

“The patenting process is an exhaustive one but it serves to demonstrate the originality of the concept, Sigma’s expertise and the rigour inherent in our research, development and testing work. The development work is further validated by DNV awarding Approval in Principle; and Certificates of Feasibility and of Endorsement.

“We are still actively pursuing patents in the Indian and Norwegian markets for a product that is unique in our sector and delivers very tangible benefits in offshore operations.”

The company believes the system, which largely uses proven technology in a more efficient way, could save clients up to 30% on installed cost.

The bow-mounted turret of the SMS allows unlimited weathervaning. SMS can be installed during a conversion of a tanker to an FPSO or FSO without the need to dry-dock the ship and without interfering with any work being undertaken on process equipment.

Although developed for FPSOs, the SMS is suitable for a variety of marine applications including floating storage, floating LNG (liquefied natural gas) and CNG (compressed natural gas).

A bespoke SMS can cost from £10m (US$15.5m) to £30m (US$46.7m) or more depending on the complexity and location of the project, while competitive mooring systems can cost £25m ($38.9m) to £50m ($77.9m).

Sigma Offshore – an independent provider of turrets, moorings and marine related engineering services – also has offices in Houston, Norway and Singapore.

As well as its mooring and riser solutions, Sigma Offshore delivers extended well testing systems, floating production export system solutions, subsea architecture design, deepwater subsea solutions, consultancy services and project management.