V-Boom

Reduce heat radiation and fire risk for North Sea flaring operations

The heavy-duty design of the modular V-boom enables it to withstand the rigorous conditions of North Sea operations, including winds to 100 mi/h, ice thickness of 2 in, and H2S service, while providing support for and access to the burner. The piping is positioned laterally below the gangway.

Typically consisting of two sections that extend approximately 60 ft, the boom can add an intermediate section to reach about 85 ft as needed to keep the flare away from the rig structure. Maintaining the proper flare distance both reduces heat radiation onto the platform or drillship and protects personnel. Two booms are typically installed on opposite sides of a platform or ship to maintain burner safety in changing wind directions.

Precision positioning of boom and burner

The V-boom is mounted on the rig with a rotating base plate and guy lines. Horizontal guy lines help orient the boom; vertical guy lines, which are fixed to the rig’s main structure, support the boom. The rotating base enables horizontal and vertical positioning of the boom and burner. The boom is positioned slightly above horizontal so that any oil left in the piping after flaring operations does not leak out.