Rig integration and remote monitoring set new standards in offshore operations

2015 ◽  
Vol 55 (2) ◽  
pp. 453
Author(s):  
Scott Sivewright ◽  
Markus Hulke ◽  
Goh Teck Hua
Keyword(s):  
Remote Monitoring ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Operational Efficiency ◽  
Safety Standards ◽  
Wellbore Integrity ◽  
High Profile ◽  
The North ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Productive Time

Heightened focus on wellbore integrity in the high-profile offshore arena has signaled the need for integrated solutions that deliver greater operational efficiency, safety, reliability and cost savings. Innovative systems that can interface with the existing rig package and facilitate mechanised processes are critical to operator needs to maximise safety and efficiency. A rig integration operation to run tubulars and make up connections for a multi-well project in the UK sector of the North Sea reduced overall operational costs without compromising performance. This operation combined remote-controlled mechanised power tongs (maximum 100,000 ft/lb) with a software package that recorded, analysed and evaluated critical torque-turn data in a real-time report, which could be viewed from multiple remote locations. This hands-off system ensured the integrity of the connections, eliminating the possibility of tubing damage and reducing tripping. The technology performed risky activities in a mechanised fashion, increased efficiency, reduced non-productive time and kept workers safer. This approach is particularly suited to the offshore sector, which is defined by high costs and risks, specifically the use of high-torque strings where casing-running operations present potential hazards. The North Sea’s stringent safety standards dictate the need for a totally integrated methodology that provides a control system, and handling and makeup tools that can easily interface with existing rig equipment. This extended abstract will review the evolution of connection integrity and remote monitoring to enhance safety and well integrity in offshore environments. It will also discuss the latest technologies and software in connection make up and their impact on improving operational efficiency.

Toe Initiation Sleeve With Time-Delay Functionality Improves Operational Efficiency of Offshore NCS Wells

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cathrine Mehus ◽  
Vijay Kumar Keerthivasan ◽  
Tom Rune Koløy ◽  
Dustin Young ◽  
Tore Sørheim
Keyword(s):  
Time Delay ◽  
Technology Development ◽  
Scale Validation ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Field Trials ◽  
Operational Efficiency ◽  
Delay Function ◽  
Operational Risks ◽  
The North ◽  
Test Pressure

Abstract A toe initiation sleeve is a tool installed in the toe of a completion liner and is used to establish a flowpath to the reservoir without the use of intervention. Conventional toe initiation sleeves require either intervention or increasing pressure to higher than the liner test pressure to activate. These methods have inherent cost and operational risks. This paper will present the development, qualification, and deployment of a multicycle, time-delay cementable toe initiation sleeve that allows for interventionless activation without exceeding the liner test pressure. This development greatly improves operational efficiency and eliminates risk associated with conventional toe initiation sleeves. A major operator in the North Sea required an ISO V0 rated toe initiation sleeve to be developed and qualified. Design criteria for the tool was identified, and the design was developed based on field-qualified seal technology. Individual component and full-scale validation testing was performed to complete the product qualification, followed by field trials in 2019. With its unique time-delay feature, the newly developed ATS (Advanced Toe Sleeve) allows for an unlimited number of pressure cycles to be performed while also keeping the well V0 barrier in place, and activates at below liner test pressure. This paper will discuss the technology development and implementation project, resulting in ISO 14998 V0-qualified cemented ATS being installed in nearly 40 wells in the same field. This paper will also provide insight into how the ATS provides unique benefits to the operator during various phases of the well's life. Cementing: One moving part and opening sleeve isolated from the inside diameter (ID) allow for pumping darts through the ATS without the risk of opening Setting liner/testing liner: Time-delay features allow for setting liner and testing the liner at higher pressures than ATS opening pressure. Well cleanup/displacing to lower density fluid: Time-delay function allows for opening the ATS at lower pressure than the well has seen during previous operations. Completion: ATS design and qualification grade reduce completion steps and costs for the operator. Stimulation: ATS eliminates the need for intervention, reducing the operational steps and costs for the operator. The advanced toe sleeve with built-in time-delay features maintains the liner integrity throughout the various well operations. The number of available pressure cycles can be predetermined, and the activation of the various cycles can be precisely controlled thereby also controlling when the tool is activated to achieve injectivity. This paper will present the development and field-wide implementation of the ATS technology, which has rapidly gained operator acceptance and resulted in significant time and cost savings.

Building a Low-Manned Production Installation: Considerations for Rotating Equipment, Electrical & Automation Systems, and Digitalization

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elgonda LaGrange
Keyword(s):  
Oil And Gas ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
The North ◽  
Automation Systems ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
Rotating Equipment ◽  
Using Data ◽  
Areas Of Interest ◽  
Insight Into

Abstract Nearly all oil and gas operators and engineering companies in the offshore sector today are engaged in programs to advance concepts for low-manned and/or normally unattended production installations (NUIs). When it comes to the design of these facilities, topsides rotating equipment and electrical, instrumentation, control, and telecommunications (EICT) packages represent key areas of interest for decision-makers, owing to the significant impact they can have on required manning levels. Over the past decade, the author's company has worked closely with major Operators in the U.S. and the North Sea to look at how existing technologies can be applied in these areas to safely facilitate de-manning of both brownfields and greenfields. This paper provides insight into these efforts. It also presents projected manpower and cost savings from de-manning, using data derived from both studies and real-world projects.

United Kingdom/Norway

2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (1) ◽  
pp. 155-164
Author(s):  
Richard Barnes
Keyword(s):  
European Union ◽  
United Kingdom ◽  
Sustainable Management ◽  
The European Union ◽  
Framework Agreement ◽  
The North ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
The Uk ◽  
Insight Into

Abstract On 30 September 2020, the United Kingdom and Norway signed the Framework Agreement on Fisheries that will provide the basis for future cooperation in the sustainable management of their fisheries. The Agreement is the first such agreement adopted by the UK following its decision to the leave the European Union. This note provides some background to the Agreement and examines its key features. Whilst the content of the Agreement appears to be rather basic, this is broadly consistent with other framework agreements, and it does provide some insight into the direction and focus of fisheries management in the North Sea, and how cooperation may develop between coastal States and the European Union.

State of the art technology for subsea tie-in and repair systems in the North Sea

2010 ◽  
Vol 50 (2) ◽  
pp. 737
Author(s):  
Per A. Nesje
Keyword(s):  
North Sea ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Cost Savings ◽  
Repair System ◽  
Design Phase ◽  
Significant Cost ◽  
Local Repair ◽  
The North ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
Vertical System

The new design of subsea structures such as riser bases (RB), pipeline end terminations (PLET) and pipeline end manifolds (PLEM) has resulted in lighter and more installation-friendly solutions. PLETs and PLEMs can be installed together with the pipeline, avoiding separate installation campaigns. The RB is designed to slide on the seabed, hence it can be connected directly to the pipeline, avoiding the need for expansion spools. If dropped object and/or trawl protection is required, a range of standardised GRP protection covers is available for the protection of structures, inline/hot-tap tees and spools. A new remote controlled tie-in system—THOR—has been developed for general use. The concept offers significant cost savings when measured against the existing conventional tie-in tool based systems. The system will be available for all pipeline sizes and will be independent of connector manufacturer.A vertical system for hot-tapping and tie-in onto a hot-tap tee has been developed and installed on the Ormen Lange field. The system includes a contingency isolation plug for recovery of the isolation valve module.Active pipeline supports (APS) have been introduced to the market and are now installed on several projects. This type of structure will enable the adjustment of pipelines during and after installation, and will therefore ensure more flexibility during the design phase. The pipeline repair system developed for the North Sea has been used for 20 years and is definitively field proven through a large number of repair operations and planned work. Many repair components and their associated installation systems have been made and used over these years. Based on this knowledge we can now better recommend, to a new repair market such as Australia, which type of repair items to purchase for the local repair system. This evaluation will also identify the items or components that should be partly prepared, either on a design level only, or up until storage of forged material or completion of particular long lead items.

Ready to collaborate? Operator and supply chain under the spotlight

2017 ◽  
Vol 57 (2) ◽  
pp. 498
Author(s):  
Mike Lynn ◽  
Alan Samuel
Keyword(s):  
Oil And Gas ◽  
Oil And Gas Industry ◽  
Commodity Price ◽  
Capital Projects ◽  
Gas Industry ◽  
New Ways Of Working ◽  
Service Companies ◽  
The North ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
The Uk

In the last 12 months or so, particularly with the drop in oil price, there’s been a lot of speculation about the future of the Australian oil and gas industry. Strenuous efforts are being made to bring down costs, reduce complexity and expedite the completion of major capital projects. Yet with the commodity price looking likely to be subdued for some time, serious questions persist. How can we sustain activity in Australia, secure the investment needed to continue exploration and appraisal drilling, for the next wave of projects? In looking for answers to these challenges, collaboration is a theme that comes up time and time again. But what does it actually mean? What does it look like in practice? Who does it well and how? And which companies are reaping the rewards of great collaboration? To fill this knowledge gap we are launching a survey which will look at many aspects of collaboration in the Australia and compare this with the results of similar surveys conducted in the UK. We will be looking to survey both operators and service companies working in the Australia and find out: What does collaboration mean? What constitutes effective collaboration? How do companies view themselves and each other as collaborators? How does collaboration in Australia compare with companies in the North Sea? We hope a better understanding of collaboration could help companies in Australia continue to improve productivity and efficiency, adopt new ways of working, and truly make the most of Australia’s abundant resources.

Integrated Decommissioning of a Pentagon Shaped Production Semisubmersible in the UK: A Unique Challenge

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Luis F. Batalla Toro ◽  
Simon L. Reid ◽  
Alfredo Salcines Tudela ◽  
Duncan Graham
Keyword(s):  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Production Unit ◽  
Original Design ◽  
Successful Operation ◽  
Unique Challenge ◽  
The North ◽  
Sequence Of Events ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
Drilling Rigs ◽  
The Uk

Between 1969 and 1977, eleven semisubmersible drilling platforms were designed and built with an innovative pentagon shaped hull, specifically to work in the harsh environment of the North Sea. One of the drilling rigs, the Alexander L. Kielland, was converted soon after construction into an accommodation platform (flotel) and failed catastrophically in 1980. Another, the Pentagon 83 “Drillmaster” (renamed as Buchan Alpha), was being converted to a Floating Production Unit at the time of the disaster. The structure of Buchan Alpha was significantly modified during the conversion of the platform so that it benefited from the lessons learnt following the Alexander L. Kielland accident to ensure that the same sequence of events could not be repeated. This technical paper objective is to explain the integrated decommissioning process of the Buchan Alpha in the UK after more than 40 years since being built and more than 35 years of successful operation since it was converted to a Floating Production Unit, and how the features of its original design have accompanied the platform through the decommissioning process. The scope covers all phases of Buchan Alpha decommissioning from the detailed planning and preparation, the suspension of production up to the dismantling and recycling process. Significant challenges for the decommissioning team included the requirement to preserve the operational status of the subsea infrastructure for potential future field redevelopment and the diver disconnection of the subsea wells. Buchan Alpha’s deep draught presented limitations on the selection of dismantling and recycling yards due to quayside water depths. Complex ballasting operations and removal of the thruster’s propellers were required to facilitate the platform berthing at the quayside. Key lessons learned applicable for future decommissioning of floating production facilities will be shared.

Aha! “take on Me’s”: bridging the North sea with relational autoethnography

2018 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 330-344 ◽  
Author(s):  
Trude Klevan ◽  
Bengt Karlsson ◽  
Lydia Turner ◽  
Nigel Short ◽  
Alec Grant
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Collaborative Work ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Relational Practice ◽  
The North ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
The Uk ◽  
New Research

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore how sharing stories of being a mental health professional and academic, based more broadly on serendipity and searching in life, can serve as means for bridging and developing cross-cultural understandings and collaborative work. Design/methodology/approach This paper is a relational autoethnography based on face-to-face and written conversational dialogue between five mental health academics from the UK and Norway. Findings The very practice of writing this paper displays and serves the purpose of bridging people, cultures and understandings, at several levels, in the facilitation of new research and writing projects. Troubling traditional boundaries between “us” and “them, and the “knower” and the “known,” the writing is theoretically underpinned by Friendship as Method, situated in a New Materialist context. Originality/value Through its conversational descriptions and explorations the paper shows how doing relational autoethnography can be purposeful in developing cross-cultural understandings and work at both professional and personal levels. It also demonstrates how autoethnography as relational practice can be useful in the sharing of this methodology between people who are more and less familiar with it.

Towards a vulnerability assessment of the UK and northern European coasts: the role of regional climate variability

2005 ◽  
Vol 363 (1831) ◽  
pp. 1329-1358 ◽  
Author(s):  
M.N Tsimplis ◽  
D.K Woolf ◽  
T.J Osborn ◽  
S Wakelin ◽  
J Wolf ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sea Level ◽  
Wave Height ◽  
North Sea ◽  
Positive Response ◽  
Sea Level Change ◽  
Empirical Relationships ◽  
Level Change ◽  
The North ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
The Uk

Within the framework of a Tyndall Centre research project, sea level and wave changes around the UK and in the North Sea have been analysed. This paper integrates the results of this project. Many aspects of the contribution of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) to sea level and wave height have been resolved. The NAO is a major forcing parameter for sea-level variability. Strong positive response to increasing NAO was observed in the shallow parts of the North Sea, while slightly negative response was found in the southwest part of the UK. The cause of the strong positive response is mainly the increased westerly winds. The NAO increase during the last decades has affected both the mean sea level and the extreme sea levels in the North Sea. The derived spatial distribution of the NAO-related variability of sea level allows the development of scenarios for future sea level and wave height in the region. Because the response of sea level to the NAO is found to be variable in time across all frequency bands, there is some inherent uncertainty in the use of the empirical relationships to develop scenarios of future sea level. Nevertheless, as it remains uncertain whether the multi-decadal NAO variability is related to climate change, the use of the empirical relationships in developing scenarios is justified. The resulting scenarios demonstrate: (i) that the use of regional estimates of sea level increase the projected range of sea-level change by 50% and (ii) that the contribution of the NAO to winter sea-level variability increases the range of uncertainty by a further 10–20 cm. On the assumption that the general circulation models have some skill in simulating the future NAO change, then the NAO contribution to sea-level change around the UK is expected to be very small (<4 cm) by 2080. Wave heights are also sensitive to the NAO changes, especially in the western coasts of the UK. Under the same scenarios for future NAO changes, the projected significant wave-height changes in the northeast Atlantic will exceed 0.4 m. In addition, wave-direction changes of around 20° per unit NAO index have been documented for one location. Such changes raise the possibility of consequential alteration of coastal erosion.

Offshore North Sea Pipeline and Riser Loss of Containment Study (PARLOC)—Applications and Limitations in the Assessment of Operating Risks

1996 ◽  
Vol 118 (2) ◽  
pp. 115-120 ◽  
Author(s):  
J. L. M. Robertson ◽  
D. Smart ◽  
T. Al-Hassan
Keyword(s):  
North Sea ◽  
Risk Control ◽  
Management Program ◽  
Comparative Risk Assessment ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Safety Standards ◽  
The North ◽  
Risk Management Program ◽  
Comparative Risk ◽  
The North Sea

Since the Piper Alpha disaster in 1988, there has been an urgent requirement to prevent such tragedies occurring by the introduction of higher safety standards and by improving the confidence in the statistical information available for the assessment of the risks of loss of containment associated with operation of North Sea pipelines. In order to achieve the latter, two databases have been compiled: 1) a pipeline database containing details of pipelines and risers installed in the North Sea; 2) an incident database containing details of reported “occurrences” (covering the period from 1975 to end 1993), which directly resulted or threatened to result in loss of containment from a pipeline or riser. The data has been compiled from information obtained from: U.K., Norwegian, Dutch and Danish Regulatory Authorities; Operators in the U.K., Dutch and Danish Sectors; reports from previous studies made available to the study; published sources. The databases have been used to perform assessments of factors affecting the frequency of incidents, such as: incident cause; part of pipeline or riser affected; pipeline or riser diameter, length, contents, age, type; whether the line is trenched or buried, piggy-backed or not; hydrotest pressure; location of pipeline or riser in the North Sea. The PARLOC study identifies potential hazards and provides an indication of likely loss of containment frequency associated with the operation of North Sea pipelines and risers. Furthermore, PARLOC provides a continually updated key reference for comparative risk assessment and ultimately for the implementation of risk control as part of an overall risk management program.

The Leman Field, Blocks 49/26, 49/27, 49/28, 53/1, 53/2, UK North Sea

2003 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
pp. 761-770 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. P. Hillier
Keyword(s):  
North Sea ◽  
Gas Field ◽  
Dune Sands ◽  
The North ◽  
The North Sea ◽  
To Come ◽  
The Uk

AbstractDiscovered in 1966 and starting production in 1968, Leman was the second gas field to come into production in the UK sector of the North Sea and is still producing gas today. It is classified as a giant field with an estimated initial gas-in-place of 397 BCM of gas in the aeolian dune sands of the Rotliegend Group. The field extends over five blocks and is being developed by two licence groups with Shell and Amoco (now BP Amoco) being the operators

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