LNG Mooring Dolphin Platform.

Mooring dolphins secure LNG vessels during loading operations by transferring mooring-line forces into the piled marine structure. Temporary construction platforms are installed around the dolphins to safely support formwork, personnel and equipment during concrete placement, and are designed for efficient installation and removal in a marine environment.

MEA was awarded a major fabrication package by John Holland Australia for the Curtis Island LNG Project, including the shop detailing and manufacture of temporary construction platforms used during the installation of the LNG berthing and mooring dolphins. The scope also included purpose-built lifting jigs and associated structural steelwork required to safely assemble, lift and position the platform structures.

The wider platform package included structures measuring approximately 20 metres by 20 metres and weighing more than 150 tonnes. Due to the size, weight and critical-path delivery requirements, detailed fabrication sequencing, heavy-lift planning and transport arrangements were developed for each major assembly.

MEA operated day and night shifts, completing approximately 1,800 labour hours per week during peak production. The initial temporary platform and lifting system were completed and delivered within just six weeks of contract award, while the broader fabrication package was completed over approximately three months.

All structures were fabricated under MEA's controlled in-house quality procedures, with surface preparation and protective coating inspected in accordance with the project's NACE coating requirements. The temporary platform was designed to be dismantled, relocated and reassembled, allowing it to be reused across multiple dolphin construction locations.

Despite the scale and accelerated schedule, MEA completed the works on time and under budget, with zero lost-time injuries, non-conformance reports or quality issues.