Offshore Oil Operations Research Articles

Buckle propagation failure of subsea pipelines; experimental, analytical, and numerical simulations

This research program investigates buckle propagation in subsea pipeline systems, The study aims to understand and predict propagation pressure (PP ), essential for ensuring the structural integrity and safe operation of these pipelines, hypothesizing that incorporating strain hardening effects into the strain energy approach can significantly enhance the prediction of propagation pressure (PP ) and that geometric parameters, particularly the diameter-to-thickness (D/t) ratio, play a major role in PP prediction. Accurate PP prediction is essential for ensuring the structural integrity and safe operation of these pipelines. The investigation is conducted through analytical, experimental, numerical, and machine learning approaches. A new analytical solution for PP is proposed, incorporating strain hardening effects using a strain energy approach. Experimental tests conducted using a hyperbaric chamber cover a wide range of pipeline configurations and materials, including steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Complementing experimental data, numerical simulations using finite element methods facilitate parametric dependence analysis and the visualization of results through 3D charts. More than 600 FE models were simulated to investigate the influence of geometric and material parameters on PP . The findings from both experimental and numerical analyses indicated that the geometric and material properties have a significant impact on PP , specifically, the diameter-to-thickness (D/t) ratio, yield stress (σy ), and tangent modulus (E′). Furthermore, Machine Learning (ML) techniques have been used to predict the PP value and have concluded that the Random Forest (RF) technique outperformed the K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Multi-layer Perceptron (MLP) neural network techniques. Overall, this study concludes that analytical, numerical, and machine learning approaches offer valuable insights into buckle propagation in subsea pipelines, contributing to improved safety and reliability in offshore oil and gas operations.

Advanced materials and deepwater asset life cycle management: A strategic approach for enhancing offshore oil and gas operations

Offshore oil and gas operations are inherently complex, requiring a strategic approach to asset life cycle management to ensure efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the use of advanced materials in deepwater asset management, highlighting their role in enhancing operational performance and longevity. The review begins by discussing the challenges associated with deepwater operations, including harsh environmental conditions, high pressures, and corrosive fluids. These challenges necessitate the use of advanced materials that can withstand such conditions while maintaining structural integrity and operational efficiency. The review then outlines the strategic approach to asset life cycle management, emphasizing the importance of integrating advanced materials into design, construction, and maintenance processes. This approach includes the selection of materials based on their performance characteristics, compatibility with existing infrastructure, and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, the review discusses the benefits of using advanced materials in deepwater asset management, including improved corrosion resistance, enhanced structural strength, and reduced maintenance requirements. These benefits translate into increased operational uptime, reduced downtime for repairs, and overall cost savings. Finally, the review concludes by highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders, including operators, manufacturers, and research institutions, to drive innovation in advanced materials and deepwater asset management. By embracing a strategic approach and leveraging advanced materials, offshore oil and gas operations can achieve higher levels of efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Keywords: Advanced Materials, Deepwater Asset, Strategic Approach, Life Cycle Management, Oil and Gas Operations.

Gas Hydrate Plugging Mechanisms during Transient Shut–In/Restart Operation in Fully Dispersed Systems

Gas hydrate formation poses a significant challenge in offshore oil and gas production, particularly during cold restarts after extended shut–ins, which can lead to pipeline blockages. Although steady–state models have traditionally been used to predict hydrate formation under continuous production conditions, these models are often inadequate for transient operations due to issues like near–zero fluid flow shear affecting the viscosity calculations of hydrate slurries. This study introduces novel conceptual models for dispersed water–in–crude oil systems specifically designed for cold restart scenarios. The models are supported by direct observations and various experimental approaches, including bottle tests, rheometer measurements, micromechanical force apparatus, and rocking cell studies, which elucidate the underlying mechanisms of hydrate formation. Additionally, this work introduces a modeling approach to represent conceptual pictures, incorporating particle settling and yield stress, to determine whether the system will plug or not upon restart. Validation is provided through transient large–scale flowloop tests, confirming the plugging mechanisms outlined. This comprehensive approach offers insights into conditions that may safely prevent or potentially lead to blockages in the fully dispersed system during field restarts, thereby enhancing the understanding and management of gas hydrate risks in offshore oil and gas operations.

Short-term extreme response estimation methodology for marine umbilical cables with two configuration types

This study investigates the critical engineering problem of the short-term extreme responses of marine umbilical cables, which are essential components in offshore oil and gas operations. Umbilical cables play a pivotal role in connecting subsea systems to surface platforms, necessitating a safe design to withstand external loads. This study focused on two primary umbilical cable configuration types: deep-water catenary and shallow-water lazy wave. For each configuration type, 100 3-h dynamic numerical simulations were performed, with maximum values fitted by using the Gumbel distribution, and the most probable maximum (MPM) values were set as benchmark values. The average conditional exceedance rate (ACER) method and uncertainty-incorporated ACER method were applied to study the short-term extreme values of umbilical cable responses based on limited sample data. The predicted results have been compared with the MPM values, and the accuracy and uncertainty of different efficient extreme-value analysis methods are discussed. This study provides a comprehensive methodological framework for the reliability analysis and safety design of umbilical cables in marine engineering.

A Review of Subsidence Monitoring Techniques in Offshore Environments.

In view of the ever-increasing global energy demands and the imperative for sustainability in extraction methods, this article surveys subsidence monitoring systems applied to oil and gas fields located in offshore areas. Subsidence is an issue that can harm infrastructure, whether onshore or especially offshore, so it must be carefully monitored to ensure safety and prevent potential environmental damage. A comprehensive review of major monitoring technologies used offshore is still lacking; here, we address this gap by evaluating several techniques, including InSAR, GNSSs, hydrostatic leveling, and fiber optic cables, among others. Their accuracy, applicability, and limitations within offshore operations have also been assessed. Based on an extensive literature review of more than 60 published papers and technical reports, we have found that no single method works best for all settings; instead, a combination of different monitoring approaches is more likely to provide a reliable subsidence assessment. We also present selected case histories to document the results achieved using integrated monitoring studies. With the emerging offshore energy industry, combining GNSSs, InSAR, and other subsidence monitoring technologies offers a pathway to achieving precision in the assessment of offshore infrastructural stability, thus underpinning the sustainability and safety of offshore oil and gas operations. Reliable and comprehensive subsidence monitoring systems are essential for safety, to protect the environment, and ensure the sustainable exploitation of hydrocarbon resources.

Challenges and strategic solutions in commissioning and start-up of subsea production systems

The commissioning and start-up of subsea production systems represent critical phases in offshore oil and gas operations, where meticulous planning and execution are essential for success. This abstract presents an overview of the challenges encountered during these phases and proposes strategic solutions to address them effectively. Environmental factors such as deepwater operations and subsea geology pose significant challenges to commissioning and start-up activities. Technical challenges include ensuring equipment reliability and seamless integration of control systems in harsh underwater conditions. Operational challenges such as remote monitoring and intervention and personnel safety further compound the complexities of these operations. Strategic solutions to mitigate these challenges include advanced planning and simulation using digital twin technology and scenario planning. Enhanced risk management strategies, including contingency planning and early detection systems, are vital to anticipate and manage potential issues effectively. Collaborative partnerships between stakeholders, including suppliers and cross-disciplinary teams, foster innovation and enhance project resilience. Drawing from successful case studies and lessons learned, this abstract emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, risk mitigation, and collaborative approaches in ensuring the successful commissioning and start-up of subsea production systems. By implementing these strategic solutions, operators can enhance operational efficiency, minimize downtime, and improve safety outcomes, ultimately contributing to the long-term viability and sustainability of offshore energy production.

Biodepolymerization of Polyamide Fibers Using Yarrowia lipolytica as Whole-Cell Biocatalyst

Polyamide is a thermoplastic polymer widely used for several applications, including cables in offshore oil and gas operations. Due to its growing annual production worldwide, this poorly biodegradable material has been a source of pollution. Given this scenario, the need has arisen to develop environmentally friendly techniques to degrade this waste, and biotechnology has emerged as a possible solution to mitigate this problem. This study aimed to investigate the potential of Yarrowia lipolytica to biodepolymerize polyamide fibers (PAF). Microbial cultures were grown in shaken flasks containing different concentrations of PAF (0.5 and 2 g·L−1) and in a bioreactor with and without pH adjustment. PAF mass loss was up to 16.8%, achieved after 96 h of cultivation in a bioreactor without pH adjustment. Additionally, NMR analyses revealed that the amorphous regions of PAF, which are more susceptible to depolymerization, were reduced by 6% during cultivation. These preliminary results indicate the biotechnological potential of Y. lipolytica to depolymerize PAF.

An Improved Identification Method of Pipeline Leak Using Acoustic Emission Signal

Pipelines constitute a vital component in offshore oil and gas operations, subjected to prolonged exposure to a range of alternating loads. Safeguarding their integrity, particularly through meticulous leak detection, is essential for ensuring safe and reliable operation. Acoustic emission detection emerges as an effective approach for monitoring pipeline leaks, demanding subsequent rigorous data analysis. Traditional analysis techniques like wavelet analysis, empirical mode decomposition (EMD), variational mode decomposition (VMD), and complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) often yield results with considerable randomness, adversely affecting leak detection accuracy. This study introduces an enhanced damage recognition methodology, integrating improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (ICEEMDAN) and probabilistic neural networks (PNN) for more accurate pipeline leak identification. This novel approach combines laboratory-acquired acoustic emission signals from leaks with ambient noise signals. Application of ICEEMDAN to these composite signals isolates eight intrinsic mode functions (IMFs), with subsequent time–frequency analysis providing insight into their frequency structures and feature vectors. These vectors are then employed to train a PNN, culminating in a robust neural network model tailored for leak detection. Conduct experimental research on pipeline leakage identification, focusing on the local structure of offshore platforms, experimental research validates the superiority of the ICEEMDAN–PNN model over existing methods like EMD, VMD, and CEEMDAN paired with PNN, particularly in terms of stability, anti-interference capabilities, and detection precision. Notably, even amidst integrated noise, the ICEEMDAN–PNN model maintains a remarkable 98% accuracy rate in identifying pipeline leaks.

Satellite NO2 Trends and Hotspots Over Offshore Oil and Gas Operations in the Gulf of Mexico

AbstractThe Outer Continental Shelf of the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) is populated with numerous oil and natural gas (ONG) platforms which produce NOx (NOx = NO + NO2), a major component of air pollution. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) is mandated to ensure that the air quality of coastal states is not degraded by these emissions. As part of a NASA‐BOEM collaboration, we conducted a satellite data‐based analysis of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) patterns and trends in the GOM. Data from the OMI and TROPOMI sensors were used to obtain 18+ year records of tropospheric column (TrC) NO2 in three GOM regions: (a) Houston urban area, (b) near shore area off the Louisiana coast, and a (c) deepwater area off the Louisiana coast. The 2004–2022 time series show a decreasing trend for the urban (−0.027 DU/decade) and near shore (−0.0022 DU/decade) areas, and an increasing trend (0.0019 DU/decade) for the deepwater area. MERRA‐2 wind and TROPOMI NO2 data were used to reveal several NO2 hotspots (up to 25% above background values) under calm wind conditions near individual platforms. The NO2 signals from these deepwater platforms and the high density of shallow water platforms closer to shore were confirmed by TrC NO2 anomalies of up to 10%, taking into account the monthly TrC NO2 climatology over the GOM. The results presented in this study establish a baseline for future estimates of emissions from the ONG hotspots and provide a methodology for analyzing NO2 measurements from the new geostationary TEMPO instrument.

Routing and scheduling of platform supply vessels in offshore oil and gas logistics

In this work, we focus on an operational logistics problem that arises in the offshore oil and gas exploration and production industry. In particular, we aim to design cost-effective routes and schedules for platform supply vessels, which are routinely employed to deliver necessary supplies to the platforms as well as to collect from those platforms used materials that need to be transported back to the onshore base for maintenance, reuse, or discarding. To address the rich-featured routing problem that arises in this offshore logistics application, we introduce a novel mixed-integer linear programming formulation and propose a specialized branch-and-cut algorithm to solve such a model. Furthermore, in order to evaluate our proposed algorithm’s performance, we conduct an extensive computational study using representative benchmark instances inspired by real operational data. The computational results show that our algorithm solved the majority of those instances to optimality, demonstrating its potential for practical use in offshore oil and gas logistics operations.

Technology Focus: Digital Data Acquisition (January 2024)

Digital data acquisition has revolutionized the oil and gas industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, cost reduction, and informed decision-making. Our industry is at the forefront of a digital transformation, where the effective acquisition and use of data have become paramount to success amidst global pressure for energy transition. Recent industry trends have seen a significant shift toward the use of legacy data, the integration of various sources of data, and the application of machine-learning techniques, creating a more dynamic and data-driven landscape. Machine learning, a subset of artificial intelligence, has become a game-changer where massive data sets from various sources—including drilling, production, and reservoir data—are being analyzed to predict equipment failures, optimize drilling procedures, and improve reservoir management. Machine-learning models also can enhance safety by predicting and preventing accidents, thus reducing downtime and operational risks. Traditionally, oil and gas companies operated in departmental silos, with different teams managing their data sources independently. Recent industry trends emphasize the integration of various data sources to create a more holistic understanding of reservoirs and operations. The integration of well logs and seismic data, for example, provides a comprehensive view of subsurface conditions. By combining these data sources, operators can better understand geology and reservoir characteristics to improve exploration and development success. Furthermore, by continuously monitoring and analyzing reservoir performance using data from drilling, production surveillance, and interventions, operators can make timely adjustments to production strategies, maximizing hydrocarbon recovery and field lifespan. As technology continues to advance, the industry’s potential for further optimization and growth is boundless. Embracing these digital trends is not just a matter of staying competitive; it’s about ensuring a more sustainable and efficient future for the industry as a whole. Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org. OTC 32210 Pushing the Limits in Deepwater Data Acquisition for Accelerated Field Development: Industry Record Batch Well Testing by Ozgur Karacali, SLB, et al. OTC 32643 Evaluation of Loop Current/Loop Current Eddy Fronts To Guide Offshore Oil and Gas Operations by Jill Storie, Woods Hole Group, et al. SPE 211807 Multifrequency Data-Acquisition Model and Hybrid Neural Network for Precise Electromagnetic Wellbore Casing Inspection by Guang An Ooi, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, et al.

Highly sensitive gas pressure sensor utilizing the harmonic vernier effect in parallel FPIs with femtosecond laser processing

This work proposes and prepares a high-sensitive fiber optic gas pressure sensor based on the first harmonic vernier effect (FHVE). It has two parallel Fabry-Perot interferometers (FPI), each made of a single-mode fiber and a small segment of capillary tube fused as a sensing cavity and a reference cavity, and the end face of the sensing cavity is cut into a thin slice with a femtosecond laser pulse to make it sensitive to gas pressure. When the sensing cavity's (FPI1) and reference cavity's (FPI2) free spectral ranges are close to each other, a traditional vernier effect occurs, and the gas pressure sensitivity approaches 58.49 nm/MPa, which is approximately 14.64 times that of the single sensing cavity (FPI1). When the free spectral range of the sensing cavity (FPI1) is roughly twice that of the reference cavity (FPI3), the first harmonic vernier effect is observed. This leads to a significant increase in gas pressure sensitivity, up to 141.80 nm/MPa, which is about 35.45 times higher than what a single sensing cavity (FPI1) would achieve. Furthermore, testing results reveal that the sensor is temperature insensitive, with a low cross-sensitivity of 3.1 × 10−5 MPa/°C for gas pressure to temperature. This device is made of pure quartz glass, has high mechanical strength, a sealed construction, is easy to fabricate, has a high sensitivity of gas pressure, and may be used to monitor pressure in extreme conditions such as offshore oil or underwater operations.

An Attribute Perspective on Regulatory Regimes in Risk Governance

Abstract Increasing interest from stakeholders has brought new focus on risk governance and risk regulation, such as the regulator’s execution of duty and tangible results on safety and environmental protection in oil and gas industry. One recent example, from 2019, is the Office of the Auditor General Norway’s (OAG) investigation of the Petroleum Safety Authority’s (PSA) follow-up on health, safety and the environment in the petroleum industry, where the regulatory regime in Norway resting on functional requirements was questioned. Simplistically speaking, there are two current traditions or main schools in regulatory regimes: use of functional requirements associated with co-regulation and use of normative requirements associated with prescriptive regulation. In this paper, we introduce a generic model from an attribute perspective on contrasting, gauging or evaluating the two different regulatory regimes. Furthermore, this approach may explain the controversy regarding the favouring of functional or prescriptive regulatory regimes by the different players in the industry. Our case is based on regulations relating to offshore oil and gas operations, in particular focusing on the Norwegian sector. We use the OAG’s investigation of the PSA and the public reaction as our material because this material is proposed to provide a thorough and valid description of how the effects of the Norwegian regulatory regime are perceived from the outside. We believe that the generic concept presented here is applicable when performing investigations in other industries involved in hazardous activities.

REVIEW OF ADVANCED WELDING AND TESTING FOR SAFETY IN OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS

The offshore oil and gas industry plays a crucial role in meeting global energy demands; however, it is fraught with inherent safety risks that necessitate constant welding and testing techniques advancements. This research paper reviews the significance of advanced welding and testing for safety in offshore oil and gas operations. This article explores traditional welding methods and their limitations in ensuring structural integrity and safety. It delves into a comprehensive analysis of advanced welding technologies, including friction stir welding, laser welding, and electron beam welding, highlighting their potential benefits in mitigating safety concerns. Moreover, the study examines the role of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, such as ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, and magnetic particle inspection, in evaluating weld quality and structural integrity. An emphasis is placed on integrating advanced welding techniques with NDT, demonstrating how this symbiotic relationship enhances safety and effectively identifies flaws and defects. Real-life case studies exemplify the practical implementation of these technologies in safeguarding offshore structures. The paper also addresses the challenges of adopting advanced welding and testing methods and envisions potential future developments in these technologies. Furthermore, it sheds light on existing regulatory frameworks and standards governing welding and testing in offshore operations, underscoring their role in ensuring safety and compliance.

Analiza awarii podczas eksploatacji podmorskich złóż ropy i gazu

Failures caused by offshore oil and gas structures operations are investigated. This work is based on the description and analysis of real case studies of accidents on offshore stationary and floating platforms; it combines foundational knowledge and current research on the latest developments in the field. It was shown that strength characteristics of offshore reinforced concrete and steel elements change during operation and cause the accumulation of defects and damages. It was established that corrosive wear, corrosion-mechanical processes, and crack-like defects are the decisive causes of element failure. It was shown that up to 60–75% of all damages to and failures of offshore engineering facilities' steel structures occur due to the corrosion-mechanical influence of an aggressive environment and force loads. This means that issues of corrosion-mechanical failure of such structures have become an industrial-scale problem. It thus allows us to draw the following conclusions: improvement of steel offshore drilling platforms (ODPs) maintenance system involves the development of new models and methods of managing the operational reliability of these structures, aimed at making decisions that take into account the crack resistance and fatigue-corrosion strength of steel ODPs in contact with the corrosive-active environment. Only on the basis of such scientifically and economically grounded models can rational strategies be shaped for carrying out revisions of the ODPs technical condition, ensuring the necessary level of their reliability during the operation period. This investigation can be very helpful to improve the design and construction of more reliable and durable offshore stationary and floating platforms.

The Management of Power System Reliability in the Offshore Oil and Gas Field

The reliability of electric power systems is needed in offshore oil and gas field operations because disruptions can have a direct impact on oil production, costs, and company profits.Objectives: to determine the evaluation of reliability performance and propose a model for managing the power system reliability of the PHE OSES offshore oil and gas field.Methodology: A case study with data collected through observation, interviews, and analysis of relevant documents.Finding: Reliability in 2015-2016 has not reached the target but from 2017-2021 has reached the target of 97.5%, as well as availability in 2015, 2018, 2019 & 2020 has not reached the target but in 2016, 2017 & 2021 has reached the target of 95%. This resulted in the highest production losses in 2015 at 266,965 and the lowest in 2021 at 21,388 barrels of oil. The model is proposed by combining elements in risk-based asset management method, RCM method, and redesign.Conclusion: In recent years, reliability has been on target but availability is volatile. The model is proposed to maintain reliability & availability on target so that production losses can be minimized.

No observed developmental effects in early life stages of capelin (Mallotus villosus) exposed to a water-soluble fraction of crude oil during embryonic development

ABSTRACT The rise in offshore oil and gas operations, maritime shipping, and tourism in northern latitudes enhances the risk of oil spills to sub-Arctic and Arctic coastal environments. Therefore, there is a need to understand the potential adverse effects of petroleum on key species in these areas. Here, we investigated the effects of oil exposure on the early life stages of capelin (Mallotus villosus), an ecologically and commercially important Barents Sea forage fish species that spawns along the coast of Northern Norway. Capelin embryos were exposed to five different concentrations (corresponding to 0.5–19 µg/L total PAHs) of water-soluble fraction (WSF) of crude oil from 6 days post fertilization (dpf) until hatch (25 dpf), and development of larvae in clean seawater was monitored until 52 dpf. None of the investigated endpoints (embryo development, larval length, heart rate, arrhythmia, and larval mortality) showed any effects. Our results suggest that the early life stages of capelin may be more robust to crude oil exposure than similar life stages of other fish species.

Unmanned rotating equipment for normally unattended installations

Offshore oil and gas operators are facing unprecedented challenges due to the need to reduce operational expenditure while operating in harsh/remote environments with an ever-increasing focus on safety and carbon footprint reduction. Technological innovation, especially around digitalisation and control, is a game changer that gives customers the opportunity to adopt low-manned or totally unmanned solutions without compromising cybersecurity standards. According to some operators, every employee removed from an offshore platform can result in approximately US$1 M savings per year. Additionally, mobilisation of personnel offshore is very risky. For these reasons, de-manning is a solution both for new projects and for units in operation. Developing unmanned trains for power generation and compression requires the introduction of different solutions: hardware and control system modifications; surveillance systems and digital services for advanced degradation monitoring. Systems should be designed considering three main development streams: (1) fully automatic start-up/shut-down, (2) no routine maintenance during operation and (3) no on-condition maintenance. This paper describes the Unmanned Rotating Equipment Package Solution developed by Baker Hughes in collaboration with primary offshore operators. We demonstrate a high technology readiness level; potential fast deployment at industrial scale and identify no main technological showstoppers. Maintenance activities requiring personnel on site can be carried out during campaign visits, currently scheduled every 6 months with the target to achieve one visit per year. In addition to benefits due to reduction or remote execution of on-site tasks, unmanning can bring further advantages to a project such as increased safety, lower carbon footprint and reduced total cost of ownership.

Socio-Economic Assessment of Value for Climate Services Case Study, Uganda and Kenya

Socio-Economic Assessment of Value for Climate Services Case Study, Uganda and Kenya

The Flower Garden Banks Siderastrea siderea coral as a candidate Global boundary Stratotype Section and Point for the Anthropocene series

The proposed Anthropocene Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) candidate site of West Flower Garden Bank (27.8762°N, 93.8147°W) is an open ocean location in the Gulf of Mexico with a submerged coral reef and few direct human impacts. Corals contain highly accurate and precise (<±1 year) internal chronologies, similar to tree rings, and their exoskeletons are formed of aragonite and can be preserved in the rock record. Here we present results from a large Siderastrea siderea coral (core 05WFGB3; 1755–2005 CE) sampled with annual and monthly resolutions that show clear markers of global and regional human impacts. Atmospheric nuclear bomb testing by-products (14C, 239+240Pu) have clear increases in this coral starting in 1957 for 14C and the first increase in 1956 for 239+240Pu (potential bases for the Anthropocene GSSP). Coral δ13C declined especially after 1956 consistent with the Suess effect resulting from the burning of fossil fuels. Coral skeletal δ15N starts to increase in 1963 corresponding with the increase in agricultural fertilizers. Coral Hg concentrations (1933–1980) loosely track fluctuations in industrial pollution and coral Ba/Ca increases from 1965–1983 when offshore oil operations expand after 1947. Coral temperature proxies contain the 20th-century global warming trend whereas coral growth declines during this interval.