Subsea Processing versus Host Selection: An Imperative Correlation

摘要

Subsea processing (SP) technologies and host facilities are distinct building blocks in offshore oil and gasrnfield development; they can be regarded as complements or alternates depending on the given scenario.rnThis paper will present a unique insight into these scenarios including applicable interactions. It willrnhighlight the key parameters in this rarely investigated correlation which influence concept selection andrnfull field development (FFD). The paper will also shed some light on key FFD drivers such as reservoirrnsize and (qualitative) economics.rnThis paper is based on thoroughly conducted secondary research covering 72 past, present, andrnpotential-future related projects around the world. A multidisciplinary approach leveraging expertise inrnfield development, topsides and subsea processing was developed to highlight the trends and possiblernfuture applications.rnThe study reveals a direct correlation between subsea processing systems and host selection whichrnplays a vital role in concept feasibility studies and full field development. Numerous subsea processingrnparameters have been considered during this study and a few have shown significant effects on hostrnselection - reservoir size, water depth, field typology, etc. The generated trends reveal interesting winnersrnand losers for various technical configurations, including a slight technology limitation dependence onrngeographical region. Although it may be possible to predict future applications of subsea processingrntechnology and optimize designs based on the host’s interaction with the subsea processing system, thernmarket uncertainties still remain high; nevertheless, recommended areas of focus are presented in thisrnpaper based on identified gaps. There are not many publications on this subject; therefore some of thernobservations presented in this paper are novel.