Smart upgrade for greater efficiency, safety and durability offshore
Platforms and vessels face extreme conditions that require robust and efficient HVAC-R systems. But over time, older equipment becomes less reliable, more expensive to maintain, and less efficient.
This is where retrofitting comes in: a strategic alternative to complete replacement, allowing critical HVAC system components to be updated—with improved performance, reduced failures, and lower investment.
SeaChiller specializes in offshore retrofit projects, delivering tailored technical solutions to modernize HVAC-R systems with high operational impact.
What is HVAC-R retrofit?
Retrofitting is the process of updating old systems with new technologies without replacing the entire system. It’s ideal for:
• Equipment that is still operational, but with reduced performance;
• Systems requiring constant maintenance and high consumption;
• Facilities that must meet new technical and environmental standards.
This includes replacing compressors, controllers, evaporators, fans, condensers, control panels and even using more modern refrigerants with lower GWP.
When to retrofit offshore systems?
Platforms and vessels typically operate for 20, 30, or even 40 years. Even with regular maintenance, many HVAC systems become obsolete or inefficient after 10–15 years of use.
Warning signs for retrofitting:
• Increased electricity consumption;
• Decreases in thermal performance (temperature, humidity, airflow);
• Equipment with obsolete or discontinued parts;
• High frequency of corrective maintenance;
• Need to update to ANVISA, IBAMA, IMO, ABNT, or ISO standards.
Technical solutions that SeaChiller offers in retrofit
SeaChiller provides complete retrofits for offshore HVAC-R systems with:
• Technical analysis and diagnosis of the current system
• Executive design and technical specifications with descriptive report
• Replacement of compressors, controllers, fans, and condensers
• Upgrade of control panels and sensors
• Conversion to environmentally friendly refrigerants (low GWP)
• Commissioning, testing, and final report with technical report
Case real – Retrofit de sistema HVAC-R em navio offshore
Client: Maintenance and accommodation unit operating in the Production unit (FPSO) in Campos Basin
Problem: Original system had a high failure rate
SeaChiller Solution:
• Replacement of semi-hermetic to MO-99 with high-efficiency models
• Refrigerant conversion to R-513A (low GWP)
• Installation of an electronic panel with remote monitoring
• Flow rate adjustment for the medical area
Results:
• Elimination of recurring failures due to overheating
• Technical team satisfaction and approval from the certification body
Vantagens do retrofit para sua operação offshore
- ✔️ Increased energy efficiency
- ✔️ Reduction of operating costs
- ✔️ Lower risk of failure in critical areas (medical, electrical, control, accommodations, Battery Room , CCM, E-House, VFD, LER)
- ✔️ Extending the useful life of equipment
- ✔️ Compliance with technical and environmental standards
- ✔️ Avoids complete system replacement (more expensive and time-consuming)
📞 Talk to someone who understands offshore HVAC-R modernization
If you need to modernize the air conditioning systems on your platform or vessel, SeaChiller can help with a tailored, safe and efficient solution.
👉 Talk to our engineers now
📄 Schedule a technical visit and receive a retrofit plan with.