In a positive pressure habitat, the overpressure is used to prevent ingress of potentially explosive substances and gases. Hot work, such as welding, grinding, cutting, sandblasting and metallisation, can thus be carried out in areas otherwise considered as hazardous. This allows the execution of hot work during regular operation of oil and gas related installations and plants.
StS gruppen has developed the Flexi Habitat System which can be delivered in three different setup layouts and which is scalable according to the customers' specific requirements.

Since 1999, StS gruppen’s flexible positive-pressure enclosures, have been used on most of the oil fields in the North Sea, for example Statfjord, Ekofisk, Heidrun, Gullfaks, Brage and Norne and onshore at Karsto and Mongstad. Also internationally, the Flexi Habitat System has gained increased popularity.

The Concept

The basic idea is to utilise the strength and flexibility of scaffolding to create a frame for an airtight lining. Pressurised, the lining becomes an effective shelter from the outside environment.

Convenient and flexible

Most locations for the potential use of habitats, such as offshore installations, refineries etc. have easy access to scaffolding which has a positive impact on transport requirement.
Setup and operation are provided by the same personnel. All of StS gruppen’s habitat operators are skilled scaffolders with many years of experience who will find a solution for nearly any challenge.

When size matters

A standard habitat measures 2 m x 2 m x 2 m, and features 2 sealed feed-throughs for pipes up to 42” or several pipes of smaller diameter.
Although the standard set-up usually is sufficient in terms of space, the system can be built to any size. StS gruppen has designed and built habitat solutions of up to 350 m3.