Selection of Subsea Production Systems for the Field Development in the Arctic Environment

Abstract

In this paper an analysis of the selection of integrated template structures for the arctic environment is presented. First of all, an analysis of several actual projects has been carried out, where their specifics were thoroughly studied. One of the important parts of the work was devoted to the requirements to integrated template structures conceived in relevant NORSOK, ISO and DNV standards. Arctic metocean conditions that can affect selection, installation and the operational conditions of templates are analyzed. The Main elements of Subsea Production Modules are considered in the work, their specific characteristics and components.Operations and installation of subsea modules in Barents Sea are considered in the paper. Four scenarios with different numbers of integrated template structures (2, 3, 4 and 6) and different numbers of wellslots in each were analyzed. For each scenario an analysis of related marine operations for the subsea modules installation was carried out. A program for installation cost estimates was built that enabled us to find the optimal scenario for the integrated template structures design. Various parameters affecting the cost of subsea infrastructure were analyzed and studied from different perspectives, e.g. geometrical well pattern system, the distance between drilling centers, drilling and construction costs, etc. Risk analysis regarding the threats and consequences is also performed; risk assessment matrices and mitigation actions are established. As a result, a model for selecting an optimal Integrated Template Structure for the arctic/subarctic regions was built.