The INPEX-operated Ichthys LNG Project is on track to achieving first gas by the end of 2016 with the first steel cutting by Samsung Heavy Industries for what will be the world's largest semi-submersible platform.

The 150 metre by 110 metre large central processing facility (CPF) will displace 140,000 tonnes and will have a peak gas export rate of 1,657 MMscfd, making it the largest of its kind. The semi-submersible is being built by world-leading offshore construction company Samsung Heavy Industry, with Mustang as the Detailed Engineering subcontractor.

This steel cutting milestone marks the first step in the fabrication process. INPEX President Director Australia Seiya Ito was on Geoje Island in Korea today where the first steel plates for the hull were cut.

"This is one of the most exciting parts of the Project - the first materialisation of what has been many years of hard work; it's when the design comes to life," Mr Ito said.

"The hull size is nearly at the limit of what the biggest shipyards can build in their dry docks today. It will be moored by 28 mooring lines, representing more than 25,000 tonnes of anchor chain.

Tags: Inpex Corporation