1. n. [Production Logging, Production Facilities]

Abbreviation for floating production, storage, and offloading vessel. FPSOs are commonly deployed for offshore production in locations that have little infrastructure. They serve as gathering, processing and storage facilities for fluids produced from subsea wells. Processed using equipment on the ship’s deck, the fluids are then stored in the ship’s hull before they are offloaded to pipelines, barges, or ships. Produced natural gas may be sent to shore via pipeline or flared if no pipeline is readily available.

See: FLNG,  subsea well,  separator