SURFACE PRODUCTION SYSTEM OPTIONS FOR DEEPWATER

摘要

Selection of the optimum production system for a deepwater field requires a detailed understanding of the advantages and limitations of the various alternatives. In this paper the key features of five proven deepwater platform types -FPSOs, semisubmersibles, spars, TLPs and compliant towers - are compared. Particular emphasis is placed on the interactions between wells, risers and hull and how they vary with water depth. Large fields in ultra-deepwater are a challenging combination for which few systems are ideally suited: they are constrained in their water depth, riser count, or topside capacity. The exception is the spread-moored FPSO. In future, semi's or other multi-column floaters (with either wet or dry trees) may also see greater application, especially where well access is important or in less benign environments.