Optimising Data Processing for Subsea System Surveillance Through Subsea Condition Monitoring

Abstract

Abstract Vast amounts of data are generated from a typical subsea control system, which provides visibility of the current subsea system condition to the operators. However, the extent of visibility is often limited by ineffective data processing and analysis. This paper will illustrate how data processing can be optimized through the implementation of subsea condition monitoring system, and subsequently reduce operational expenses (OPEX). Similar to the subsea control system, all data is instantaneously received by the subsea condition monitoring system to provide operator with live data updates, which also allows historical trending for easy analyzing. Raw data can easily be displayed; however will only be valuable when translated to an actionable data. The condition monitoring system processes and analyzes each data points and translates them to a measurable condition index, which defines the subsea asset's integrity and determines how severely it impacts production and system availability. Data is presented in a dedicated user interface according to equipment and issue related information, which allows onshore operator and product experts a better focus and control during troubleshooting, root cause analysis or daily surveillance. With the capability of remote surveillance and utilization of existing instrumentation and equipment, the condition monitoring system can be conveniently implemented on both new and mature fields. The condition monitoring system's data processing methodology will be illustrated and compared with the typical subsea control system. A field operational example will be shared to demonstrate how the processed data provides an early warning whilst the equipment is still operating. Having a constant knowledge of the equipment's condition from the continuous real-time update allows early proactive maintenance planning, hence reducing system downtime and maximizing intervention efficiency. By extending the subsea control system with a separate condition monitoring system, operator will have a full control and in-depth knowledge about the subsea production system. Proactively recognizing and understanding equipment condition based on performance trends will help avoid costly unplanned repairs.