Insulated flowline technology for deep water
Deepwater fields are economically developed using subsea completions, with hydrocarbon fluids typically conveyed via multiphase pipelines and flowlines to an existing shallow water host facility. These flowlines operate in a low ambient temperature, high external pressure environment, conducive to the formation of paraffin deposits or hydrates. The leading strategy to circumvent these deleterious effects is to minimize heat loss from the system using insulation. Since the experience base for such deepwater insulated flowlines is limited, the DeepStar 600 Committee on Pipelines, Flowlines, and Umbilicals initiated several studies during 1994--95, addressing three major categories of insulation systems: pipe-in-pipe systems, integrated towed flowline bundles, and non-jacketed systems. This paper helps to identify potentially viable systems, design techniques, emerging technologies, feasible materials, and technical limitations. The proper design of flowline insulation requires a balance among the high cost of the insulation, the intended operability of the system, and the acceptable risk level. The following information is presented to aid development planners and subsea flowline engineers interested in the development, applicability, and availability of this technology.
- OSTI ID:
- 434058
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-960525--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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