The FPS Technical Committee convened on 4th September 2024, in London, where key representatives from FPS member companies discussed important technical developments and updates within the sector.
Key Discussions and Updates:
Concrete Blockages and CFA Procedures – A significant discussion focused on the ongoing research at Swansea University to understand blockages in CFA concrete clearing procedures. Initial findings from the sponsored Numerical Modelling Institute are expected by Christmas 2024. The committee discussed the importance of sharing relevant technical papers to support this research.
FPS Plug-in for the EFFC Carbon Calculator – FPS members committed to reporting Scope 1 and 2 emissions at the company level, with additional Scope 3 reporting for larger projects. The FPS plug-in for the EFFC Carbon Calculator will assist members in automating this process.
EFFC/DFI Non-Destructive Testing Project – The committee discussed FPS participation in an international non-destructive testing project. The aim is to produce practical guidance for interpreting test results, ensuring clarity on performance issues rather than focusing on “defects” or “anomalies.”
Platform Certificates and Material Maintenance – There was an in-depth review of working platform certificates and associated documentation, with an emphasis on improving platform maintenance and ensuring high material quality. Updates are planned to better reflect best practices, and members were urged to contribute to this effort.
Sustainability by Design – Dimitrios Selemetas presented findings on Secant Raft Interaction, aiming to raise industry awareness on sustainability principles in design. The committee anticipates sharing formal research results once they have passed through the necessary procedures.
Committee Changes – Chris Oram has stepped down as deputy chair of the committee and was thanked for is valuable support and involvement during his tenure and wished success in his new role. The committee is looking to members to help replace the role.
Looking Ahead – Key upcoming events include the GE Sustainability and Geo Resilience Conferences in September 2024, the EFFC-DFI Conference in Bruges (May 2025), and the FPS Awards 2024.