Abstract
In this study, a deepwater pipeline-riser system that experienced hydrates was modelled in MAXIMUS 6.20 (an integrated production modelling tool) to understand, predict and mitigate hydrates formation in typical deepwater system. Highlights of the results from this study suggest that the injection of low-dosage hydrate inhibitors (LDHIs) into the hydrate-forming structures within the multiphase flow stream disperses the hydrates particles in an irregular manner and subsequently decreases the nucleation rate of the hydrate and prevents the formation of hydrates. This study found that the cost of using monoethylene glycol was significantly higher than that of LDHI by over $500/day although low-dosage hydrate inhibitors have initial relatively high CAPEX. In the long run, its OPEX is relatively low, making it cost-effective for hydrate inhibition in deepwater scenarios.
Highlights
Pipeline-riser system plugging, resulting from hydrates formation, is a major flow assurance issue in the subsea/offshore operations of oil and gas assets
This study focused on the development of a numerical simulation model for a typical deepwater pipeline-riser system and comparing the effectiveness of monoethylene glycol (MEG) and low-dosage hydrate inhibitor (LDHI) as hydrates inhibition strategies
This study highlighted the effect of low temperature and high pressure as key conditions for hydrates formation in deepwater scenario
Summary
Pipeline-riser system plugging, resulting from hydrates formation, is a major flow assurance issue in the subsea/offshore operations of oil and gas assets. There is an urgent need to maximize production rates from subsea wells, in order to meet increasing energy demand and at a moderate operational cost. These hydrates form due to the presence of free water and gas molecule in the multiphase flow stream from the reservoir and low temperature and high pressure of the subsea environment. This study focused on the development of a numerical simulation model for a typical deepwater pipeline-riser system and comparing the effectiveness of monoethylene glycol (MEG) and low-dosage hydrate inhibitor (LDHI) as hydrates inhibition strategies. This study focused on comparing MEG with LDHI in order to evaluate the technical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of both approaches in inhibiting hydrates formation
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