Evaluating Deepwater Development Concepts

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the current state of deepwater technology. It discusses the major factors that must be considered when evaluating potential deepwater development concepts, presents proven deepwater development concepts, and provides insight into the applicability of each. Two unproven "dry tree" concepts are presented to illustrate proposed new concepts. Approximate costs are included, leading up to general conclusions with respect to the evaluation process. The focus is primarily on the Gulf of Mexico.

Evaluation of tieback developments for marginal oil fields with timing flexibility

“…Although there are more technical challenges associated with subsea tiebacks than for standalone facilities, they are important to drive the profitability of small oil fields. Abbott et al (1995) conclude that if subsea tiebacks to an existing platform are feasible, the cost will be difficult to beat. However, marginal oil field developments are relatively more uncertain than large oil fields.…”

Experimental Studies on a Scaled Model of a Tension Based Tension Leg Platform under Combined Mooring and Tether Conditions

“…This leads to additional environmental loads on the structure. To overcome the difficulties and to use the TLP concept to deeper waters, researchers have proposed different modified TLP concepts such as Mini TLPs (Kibbee, 1996), Extended TLP (John, et al, 2009), Suspended TLP (Jagannadhan, 1992), Raft TLP (Abbott, et al, 1995) and Tension Based TLP (Srinivasan, 1998). The schematic view of TBTLP patented by Srinivasan (1998) is shown in Figure 1 (b).…”