What is a Hydraulic Power Unit? (HPU)

In the offshore context, the HPU (Hydraulic Power Unit) is an integral part of FPSO vessels and drilling platforms. The HPU is used to remotely control safety equipment and valves, using pressure. The unit provides a stable and clean supply of hydraulic fluid to topside, remotely controlled subsea valves or tools.

Topside is a term used extensively in the oil and gas industry. In this article, topside refers to the top or deck of a platform or ship. On top of the platform are, among other things:

• Residential module
• Helideck
• Production area with wellheads
• Process modules

What does a Hydraulic Power Unit contain?

Directly translated into Norwegian, HPU is "hydraulic power unit". An HPU is a self-contained system that mainly contains a motor, a hydraulic pump and a tank/storage.

The function of the device is to convert mechanical energy into hydraulic energy.
Several machines and equipment need this combination of flow and pressure.

Here are some examples of components that you might find in an HPU:

• Motor: drives the pump.
• Hydraulic pump: This can be described as the heart of the unit, pumping hydraulic fluid from the tank to the system.
• Tank: a container that holds the hydraulic fluid.
• Accumulator: stores hydraulic energy for later use, or to tone down pulsations.
• Filter: Cleans the hydraulic fluid of contamination, to protect the system and ensure proper operation.
• Cooler and heater: regulates the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.
• Valves: control system pressure and direct the flow of hydraulic fluid.

HPU delivery offshore

HPUs are used in several industries, including aerospace, marine, industrial manufacturing, and motorsport. A Hydraulic Power Unit has become an increasingly important element in modern industry, and will continue to be a key piece for the future.

Nordic Steel has manufactured several Hydraulic Power Units. One of our reference projects is an HPU that was fabricated as part of CRE8 Systems' delivery to the Fenris field, in the North Sea.

The unit was delivered together with a WHCP (Wellhead Control System/Panel), and a TUTU (Topside Umbilical Termination Unit) panel for an unmanned platform. All were manufactured by Nordic Steel in Bryne.

Tailor-made HPU solutions

Our HPUs are delivered according to the required standards and certifications. We can tailor them to your wishes. Whether you need:

• Diesel Hydraulic Power Units: Nordic Steel can manufacture diesel-powered HPUs with the desired specifications and certifications you need for your project.
• Electric Hydraulic Power Units: Nordic Steel can manufacture HPUs that are electric, with the desired specifications and certifications that you need for your project.
• Portable Hydraulic Power Units: We help you find the best possible solution to make your HPU as easy to move as possible. Certifications and specifications according to your wishes.
• Gas-powered Hydraulic Power Units: Nordic Steel can manufacture gas-powered HPUs with the desired specifications and certifications that you need for your project.
• All types can be produced both large and small.

Here you can read about our certifications: https://www.nordicsteel.no/certifications

For more information about HPU, contact us on our website.

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Sources: NDLA, Zeus Hydratec