An Exploratory Study on Optimum Layout of the Cluster Manifold

Abstract

There are four typical layout types for the subsea production system. These include single well tie back, the daisy chain, the template manifold and the cluster manifold. In the early development phase, an appropriate layout type needs to be selected. The layout design of the subsea production system is based on the data of oil and gas fields. Due to many advantages, such as less initial investment, being installed in advance, flexibility for development schedule and so on, the cluster manifold is becoming more popular and has been applied extensively in the layout of deepwater subsea production systems. In this layout type, the number and locations of cluster manifolds, and the connection types between subsea production facilities have a direct effect on the safety, flexibility and cost of the target deepwater oil and gas fields. Hence, how to design the optimal layout of the cluster manifold is of key importance. This paper will focus on the cluster manifold layout by the math means programmed using C++. For any given subsea well and the floating production system, the basic layout of the cluster manifold with the lowest cost can be obtained based on the assumptions, including the number, locations and cost of the jumpers, PLETS and flowlines. This mathematical method can reduce subjective bias from the engineers and provide a more scientific reference for obtaining the optimal cluster manifold layout.