Shell Approves MAADI Truss Bridge for Malampaya Offshore Project

July 29, 2014

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@ Shell

Factory Testing for Extreme Offshore Conditions

MASCOUCHE, QC — MAADI Group has successfully completed the most demanding Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) in its history, validating the performance of a custom-engineered aluminum truss bridge designed for Shell Philippines Exploration (SPEX) as part of the Malampaya Gas-to-Power Project—a key infrastructure initiative located in the West Philippine Sea.

The Malampaya deep-water gas field presents some of the most challenging operational environments in offshore engineering. To meet those demands, SPEX selected MAADI Group to design and test a high-performance aluminum bridge capable of withstanding extreme wave action, lateral movement, and heavy live loads.

Floating Structures and Truss Bridges Engineered for Harsh Marine Environments

MAADI Group designs and engineers floating structures and truss bridges specifically tailored for extreme offshore conditions. Our bridges incorporate several innovative features to ensure long-term performance in highly dynamic marine environments:

  • Pinned connectors at both ends capable of withstanding up to 150,000 lbs of shear force
  • A trolley-mounted system that allows one end of the bridge to move laterally, absorbing platform displacement or wave motion
  • Marine-grade aluminum construction, providing superior resistance to saltwater corrosion without the need for galvanizing or repainting

MAADI Group’s expertise extends beyond bridges—our floating docks and marina systems are built to withstand Category 1 and 2 hurricanes across the Caribbean and Florida. With a track record of successful deployments in some of the world’s harshest marine regions, MAADI leverages advanced structural engineering, certified welding procedures, and Registered In-House Professional Engineers (P.E.) to deliver unmatched reliability and performance.

Full-Scale Load Testing – 8.4 Tons in Simulated Storm Conditions

During the FAT process, engineers loaded the bridge with 8.4 metric tons—the equivalent of 80 offshore workers crossing simultaneously—under heavy rain. Surveyors tracked deflection in real time, confirming that the bridge remained well within acceptable deformation limits despite simulated West Philippine Sea storm conditions.

Deployment to Malampaya Gas-to-Power Field

Once testing was complete, the modular aluminum bridge was disassembled and packed into containers for shipment to the Southern Hemisphere. It will be reassembled and installed between two floating platforms at the Malampaya gas field, providing a secure and flexible access solution for offshore crews.

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Photo Credit: Shell
MAADI Group-Aluminum-Bridge-Malampaya-deep-water gas-to-power project
Photo Credit: Shell

Custom Pedestrian Bridges

Why Aluminum Truss Bridges Are Ideal for Offshore Projects

Aluminum bridges provide a range of benefits that make them uniquely suited for offshore energy infrastructure:
Lightweight structure compatible with offshore crane lifting limits
No rust, no rot, no repainting — ideal for tropical and saltwater conditions
Long service life and minimal maintenance requirements

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