Tapping into new potential

摘要

Jorund Torjussen, NOV, Norway, details new methods to increase field life for mature developments and provide maximum flexibility for operators. As oilfields continue to mature, utilising existing infrastructure will also be vital for the cost-efficient extraction of oil and gas reserves. Hot tapping systems, such as those developed by NOV. will enable operators to create a connection to a tieback well by drilling into the pipeline while in full operation. This, in turn, allows fields the flexibility they need to remain viable for continued production. The hot tapping system utilises the subsea infrastructure as is, even if the need was not foreseen during the initial pipeline installation, resulting in increased flexibility for operators and increased life of the field.