bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust Analysis of Network-Based Real-Time Kinematic for GNSS-Derived Heights
Authors: Bae Tae-Suk , Grejner-Brzezinska Dorota , Mader Gerald , Dennis Michael
Published: October 2015

New guidelines and procedures for real-time (RT) network-based solutions are required in order to support Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) derived heights. Two kinds of experiments were carried out to analyze the performance of the network-based real-time kinematic (RTK) solutions. New test marks were installed in different surrounding environments, and the existing GPS benchmarks were used for analyzing the effect of different factors, such as baseline lengths, antenna types, on the final accuracy and reliability of the height estimation. The RT solutions are categorized into three groups: single-base RTK, multiple-epoch network RTK (mRTN), and single-epoch network RTK (sRTN). The RTK solution can be biased up to 9 mm depending on the surrounding environment, but there was no notable bias for a longer reference base station (about 30 km) In addition, the occupation time for the network RTK was investigated in various cases. There is no explicit bias in the solution for different durations, but smoother results were obtained for longer durations. Further investigation is needed into the effect of changing the occupation time between solutions and into the possibility of using single-epoch solutions in precise determination of heights by GNSS.
Near-field visualization of plasmonic lenses: an overall analysis of characterization errors
Authors: Wang Jing , Fu Yongqi , Xu Zongwei , Fang Fengzhou
Published: October 2015

Many factors influence the near-field visualization of plasmonic structures that are based on perforated elliptical slits. Here, characterization errors are experimentally analyzed in detail from both fabrication and measurement points of view. Some issues such as geometrical parameter, probe–sample surface interaction, misalignment, stigmation, and internal stress, have influence on the final near-field probing results. In comparison to the theoretical ideal case of near-field probing of the structures, numerical calculation is carried out on the basis of a finite-difference and time-domain (FDTD) algorithm so as to support the error analyses. The analyses performed on the basis of both theoretical calculation and experimental probing can provide a helpful reference for the researchers probing their plasmonic structures and nanophotonic devices.
Étude clinique de l’acte créateur chez Frida Kahlo
Authors: Scotto di Vettimo Delphine
Published: October 2015

Cette étude privilégie une étape décisive du processus créateur chez Frida Kahlo, qui est celle de la maternité à l’épreuve de l’avortement. Dans cette mise en perspective résolument clinique, psychopathologique et psychanalytique, l’exploration de l’univers de cette artiste se fait à la lumière de l’œuvre intitulée L’hôpital Henry-Ford produite en 1932, qui galvanise à la fois la radicalité de cette épreuve traumatique et le processus sublimatoire comme accomplissement du deuil de la Chose dans la création, au sens lacanien. L’approche freudienne s’offre de façon exemplaire pour appréhender l’art, auprès de la psychanalyse, comme un mode original de recherche et d’obtention coûte que coûte de la satisfaction, mais averti de l’insatisfaction foncière qui persiste au sein du psychisme, donc dans la lignée du symptôme. Ici, l’examen de la dialectique entre processus créateur et traumatisme, processus créateur et sublimation permet de saisir, à l’état naissant, une connexion du réel et du symbolique, et la mise en œuvre de modalités inédites de création picturale.
Le féminin ou la liberté du semblant : le « pèse-homme »
Authors: Assoun Paul-Laurent
Published: October 2015

Le féminin – que veut la femme ? – s’éclaire de sa « politique » envers le masculin. Il s’agit de dégager les conséquences structurales de la remarque de Lacan sur la « liberté à l’égard du semblant » échue à la femme, qui lui permettrait de « donner du poids à l’homme, y compris à celui qui n’en a aucun ». Ce qui fait dudit sexe féminin le sexe activé à construire l’homme pour y amarrer sa stratégie phallique et sa demande d’amour. De la « passion du déchet » au fantasme du « surmâle », c’est un « effet Pygmalion inversé » qui donne accès à un certain « choix d’objet » au féminin, au-delà de la « mascarade ». Il s’agit d’en suivre la dialectique interne au cœur du devenir-femme et au-delà, quand l’engeance masculine ne fait plus le poids, dégonflement du héros par le crime, dont Médée a fait le (re)nom. Un point d’orgue en est l’institution de la favorite, « hystérique d’État » qui allège le souverain de son être pour faire désirer l’homme.
Symptôme et structure dans la pratique analytique avec les enfants
Authors: Berger Frédérique F.
Published: October 2015

À partir de sa pratique analytique avec les enfants, l’auteur interroge le symptôme et la structure. Prenant en compte certains apports des enseignements de l’anthropologie lévistraussienne et de la psychanalyse freudienne et lacanienne, sont posées et interrogées des articulations majeures concernant la famille et le sujet, le symptôme de l’enfant et les modalités d’assomption d’un singulier sujet du désir. En conséquence, la particularité du symptôme de l’enfant et l’universel de la structure du sujet sont mis en évidence. Corrélative de la structure du langage et de la parole, la structure du sujet est à même de révéler la fonction et les effets inconscients de la famille ainsi que la valeur de vérité du symptôme de l’enfant.
La place fondamentale du corps dans l’hallucination verbale
Authors: Guyonnet Damien
Published: October 2015

Nous savons depuis Lacan que la logique de l’hallucination verbale ne relève pas du registre sensoriel mais du champ du langage. D’où le processus de « chaîne brisée » évoqué dans le texte « D’une question préliminaire… », afin de rendre compte du phénomène en jeu dont le mécanisme causal est la forclusion. Mais alors, qu’en est-il du corps ? Vignette clinique à l’appui, nous tâcherons de répondre à cette question, en évoquant la place de ce dernier dans le processus hallucinatoire, à l’origine du phénomène et pendant sa manifestation. Occasion nous sera donnée alors d’aborder succinctement la question du bruit halluciné, dont la logique demeure étroitement liée à celle du corps.
Les nouvelles figures de la peur. À la croisée de la médecine et de la psychanalyse
Authors: Stitou Rajaa
Published: October 2015

C’est en plein coeur des dispositifs sécuritaires et prédictifs que se déchaîne et s’exacerbe la peur, une peur aux formes nouvelles présentifiant avec acuité la complexité de l’humain et la nécessité d’en passer par une éthique de la responsabilité. Ces figures contemporaines de la peur seront questionnées à travers leur résonance subjective, mais aussi dans leur rapport à l’actualité de la médecine prédictive et du contexte sociopolitique contemporain. L’expérience montre souvent que c’est, paradoxalement, en recevant la révélation d’un savoir sur sa maladie ou son destin génétique que le sujet est rendu étranger à lui-même et à son corps. Dans toute prédiction subsiste un imprédictible, un impossible à déterminer. N’est-ce pas face à cette butée que peut s’avérer féconde la rencontre de la médecine et de la psychanalyse ?
Lysozyme in breast milk is a selection factor for bifidobacterial colonisation in the infant intestine
Authors: Minami J. , Odamaki T. , Hashikura N. , Abe F. , Xiao J.Z.
Published: October 2015

The objective of this work was to study the residential characteristics of bifidobacteria, which can be classified as either human-residential bifidobacteria (HRB) or non-HRB. We investigated the growth of different strains of HRB and non-HRB in human breast milk with the aim of understanding the mechanisms involved in the unique habitation of each taxon. The growth of 37 strains of different bifidobacterial species or subspecies in breast milk was investigated by incubating each under anaerobic conditions at 37°C. The tolerance of each strain to either egg white or human lysozyme was compared. Among the infant-type HRB strains, all strains ofBifidobacterium longumsubsp.infantisandBifidobacterium brevegrew well in breast milk, but the growth characteristics ofB. longumsubsp.longumandB. bifidumwere strain-dependent. In contrast, the tested strains of adult-type HRB and non-HRB generally failed to grow and died after incubation in breast milk. Most infant-type HRB strains were tolerant to high concentrations of lysozyme, while adult-type HRB strains possessed intermediate tolerance to lysozyme, and non-HRB strains were susceptible to lysozymes of egg white or human origin. These data suggest that breast milk lysozyme content plays a central role in the exclusion of non-HRB, while other factors, together with lysozyme content, are involved in the growth inhibition of adult-type strains in human milk. Our results suggest that infant-type HRB strains would be suitable candidates for use as infant probiotics.
Pilot Enhancement of the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program with a Healthy Aging Program
Authors: Schlenk Elizabeth A. , Bilt Joni Vander , Lo-Ciganic Wei-Hsuan , Jacob Mini E. , Woody Sarah E. , Conroy Molly B. , Kwoh C. Kent , Albert Steven M. , Boudreau Robert , Newman Anne B. , Zgibor Janice C.
Published: October 2015

Older adults with arthritis or joint pain were targeted for a pilot program enhancing the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program with the 10 Keys™ to Healthy Aging Program. Using a one-group, pre-post design, feasibility was examined and improvements in preventive behaviors, arthritis outcomes, and cardiometabolic outcomes were explored. A 10-week program was developed, instructors were recruited and trained, and four sites and 51 participants were recruited. Measures included attendance, adherence, satisfaction, preventive behaviors, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (pain and stiffness), glucose, and cholesterol. Three fourths of participants attended >50% of the sessions. At 6 and 12 months, more than one half performed the exercises 1 to 2 days per week, whereas 28% and 14% exercised 3 to 7 days per week, respectively. Participants (92%) rated the program as excellent/very good. Nonsignificant changes were observed in expected directions. Effect sizes were small for arthritis and cardiometabolic outcomes. This program engaged community partners, demonstrated feasibility, and showed improvements in some preventive behaviors and health risk profiles.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2016; 9(3):123–132.]
Analysis and Design of Data Resource Management System for Jinshandian Iron Mine
Authors: Wang YunSen
Published: October 2015

With the development of enterprise information, data resource has become one of the most important assets of enterprises. This paper summarizes the current problems of data resource management of Jinshandian Iron Mine, then it analyzes the area of standards, organizations, systems, processes and management tools, it provides the implementation guide and presents the problems that faced in practice with recommended solutions. The results of practical application show that it has guiding significance on implementing data resource management system of mine enterprises.
The Electrical Load Forecasting Base on an Optimal Selection Method of Multiple Models in DSM
Authors: Zheng Guilin , Zhang Li
Published: October 2015

Electrical load forecasting plays a key role in energy scheduling and planning. It is a challenge to predict electric load accurately due to the versatility of electrical loads and the vast number of users in DSM of low-voltage side. Most of electrical load forecasting research focused on single model prediction or combination model prediction, which cannot get the optimal performance for some cases. Therefore, how to gather maximum optimal information from various different models is a key point in load forecasting and analysis. In this paper, an optimal selection method of multiple models for electrical load forecasting is studied. This method overcomes the shortcoming of unitary model, such as the instability and poor accuracy in some cases. To evaluate the forecast performance, a practical case is studied based on the intelligent electricity management system, which is presented by Wuhan University. It can be seen that the prediction error of the forecasting models can be calculated automatically and final optimum model can be obtained by optimum seeking software platform.
The Fundamentals of Water and Natural Waters
Authors: Cuker Benjamin , Bugyi George
Published: October 2015

This chapter provides information on the fundamental concepts needed to understand water and water pollution, enabling better comprehension of the subsequent material. Examining the molecular structure of water provides context for understanding its most important properties. The reader explores the various types of natural waters and learns how they are tied together in the global water cycle. An examination of the contents of natural waters reveals the presence of dissolved solids, liquids and gases and the intimate relationship between these substances and the community of life that dwells in aquatic systems. The chapter introduces basic concepts of the chemistry of water and discusses the action and distribution of pollutants. Readers also learn about the basic interaction between various pollutants and the aquatic food chain.
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products as Emerging Water Contaminants
Authors: Becker Julie A. , Stefanakis Alexandros I.
Published: October 2015

With the advent of better detection, more micro-contaminants are being found in water. Many of these micro-contaminants come from medical therapies and personal care products. These chemicals are comprised of a wide-range of substances including pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, veterinary drugs, fragrances, hair care products, body lotions, oral care, and cosmetics. Many of these products enhance our quality of life and in some cases, provide life-saving therapies. But, they come with an environmental cost. Scientific research has found sub-therapeutic levels of many of these chemicals in our waterways and in our finished drinking water, causing concern about the potential environmental and public health impacts associated with very low, chronic exposure. As tailored therapies and personal care products are developed, it is crucial to consider how to control emerging contaminants from medical therapies and personal care products. Specific actions and policies can be implemented now by adopting upstream approaches to prevent waste and decrease environmental exposures.
Background of Branched Crack Formation in Surface Zone of Continuously-Cast Ti-Nb Microalloyed Steel Slab
Authors: Bekeč Pavel , Longauerová Margita , Vojtko Marek , Milkovič Ondrej , Kadlec Jiří , Tréfa Gabriel , Grimplini Gabriel
Published: October 2015

Branched cracks are undesirable and dangerous, and under the oxidized surface of a continuously-cast slab they are mostly difficult to identify. They can cause the formation of defects in thick sheet or on thin strip. This work deals with the study of the background to the formation of branched cracks in a continuously-cast slab, at pulling rate 0.43 m.min-1. The results of the work show that branched cracks extended to a depth of 10 mm below the slab surface and occurred mostly below oscillation marks. Cracks were mostly present in the edge parts of the slab, where they were also deeper in comparison with locations in the middle of the slab width. Microstructural analysis confirmed heterogeneity of ferrite grain sizes in the slab surface skin. The microstructure was formed predominantly of polyhedral ferritic-pearlitic grains, and on the ferritic grain boundaries the presence of tertiary cementite was observed. In the area around the cracks mainly non-equilibrium microstructure of acicular character was observed. A typical feature of these cracks after their opening is intercrystalline fracture. Wavelength-dispersive X-ray analysis of a sample with a branched crack showed chemical heterogeneity of harmful elements, mainly S and As. Large amounts of these elements point to their significant segregation. The formation of branched cracks is conditioned not only by segregation of impurities, but possibly also by the presence of undesirable brittle cementite networks. The presence of cementite was confirmed not only by microstructural analysis, but also diffraction of hard X-ray radiation. Precipitation of microalloying elements in connection with the cementite can lead to higher probability of surface crack formation, as also confirmed in this study.Keywords: slab, branched cracks, oscillation marks, segregation, precipitation
L3xLa2/3-XTiO3 Nanoparticles Obtained from a Low Temperature Synthesis Route
Authors: Mariño Otero Teobaldo , Mosqueda Laffita Yodalgis , Milian Pila Carlos Ricardo , Pérez Cappe Eduardo
Published: October 2015

In this work, the synthesis of Li3xLa2/3-xTiO3 oxide is studied by thermal decomposition of citrate precursor at very low temperature which has not been yet reported in the literature for these compounds. The characterization of oxides and its precursor was realized by DRX, IR, ATD and TEM techniques. The results show the formation of a new chemical compound (precursor) as well as several advantages of the citrate method in relation to reported ones in the literature: the ostensible decreasing of temperature Li3xLa2/3-xTiO3 formation and the decreasing of particle size on the nanometric scale which is very desirable for the electrochemical application.
The Influence of Growth Rate on Mechanical and Thermodynamical Properties of the Zn-Ti0.075-Cu0.15 Single Crystals Deformed at (0001)<11-20> System
Authors: Boczkal Grzegorz
Published: October 2015

The single crystals were produced from industry zinc alloy containing 0.075wt.% of titanium and 0.15wt.% of copper. The Bridgman method was applied to obtain the single crystal. Three growth rates were used: 6mm/h, 10mm/h and 16mm/h. The common feature of all of the produced single crystals was homogeneous distribution of the second phase on a sections normal to the growth direction. The investigated single crystals were deformed in compression test with jump changes of the strain rate (from 10-4s-1 on 10-3s-1). From the obtained stress-strain curves the Critical Resolved Shear Stress (CRSS), hardening coefficient in the easy slip range (QA) and thermodynamical – activation volume (V*) and activation enthalpy (DH) were determined. The tests were done at the temperature range from 77K to 400K. Results showed anomaly on the CRSS=f(T) curve. The temperature of an extreme was 240K. The same effect was observed on V*=f(T) and DH=f(T) curves. The presented results reveal good correlation with crack phenomena that was observed during a bent of the zinc alloy sheets at the temperatures below 300K.
In Situ Al3Nb Formation in Liquid Al by Nb Particle Addition
Authors: Kumar Sundaram , Agarwal Sam , O'Reilly Keyna
Published: October 2015

Master alloys are used in the metals industry to control chemical composition and to help to achieve a particular microstructure or promote growth of desired phases. This study reports on making a Al3Nb containing aluminium (Al) - niobium (Nb) master alloy by solid-liquid reaction processing, where solid Nb particles are added to the liquid Al. Nb react with Al to form in-situ Al3Nb. The in-situ formed Al3Nb particles were facet and polygonal in shape. The three dimensional analysis revealed that the outer surface of the partially reacted Nb was covered with faceted Al3Nb particles. The different nature and morphologies of the in-situ phases that were produced were determined using SEM, EDX, XRD and extraction techniques. A mechanism for the observed microstructural difference is discussed.
Risk Assessment Methodologies Applied to Exploration and Production of Brazilian Pre-Salt Layer
Authors: de Souza Karina Forte , Werneck Daniela
Published: October 2015

For the decades ahead, the energy demand growth will require an expansion in the Oil & Gas (O&G) Industry and consequently, more complex areas will have to be explored in order to comply with the energy supply needs. Examples of these complex areas are the Brazilian Pre-salt basins which have significant importance due to their massive reserves to be explored. The challenges due to the complexity of pre-salt layer and the lack of experience to explore these areas has led to new requirements from regulatory agencies and adoption of special measures in order to ensure a safer, more affordable and environmentally responsible exploration. Thus, it is clear the importance of discussing the hazards involving pre-salt exploration and the different risk-based methodologies that can be applied in order to ensure the safety of pre-salt facilities according to recognized international health and safety standards. This paper provides key components to provide a successful Risk Assessment in order to enable the justification of investment to improve the safety and consequently the confidence in performing challenging operations of Exploration & Production (E&P) in the pre-salt areas.
A Journey to Multi-Functionality - From Customized to Independent Well Access Systems
Authors: Klever Dag Jostein , Halvorsen Eivind
Published: October 2015

The objective of this paper is to show how Well Access Technology is changing from field and project specific equipment packages to be subsea tree-vendor and field independent multipurpose systems developed during early 2000 for open water and landing string systems. Fifteen years of experience from performing Riserless Light Well Intervention (RLWI) on more than 350 different subsea wells has provided the knowledge to develop today's state of the art multifunctional subsea service technology. The experiences and synergies of RLWI operations have enabled continuous development of the technology to meet tomorrow's requirement in subsea services.

This Paper will give insight into the challenges experienced by going from standard methods with hydraulic power supplied from the surface through heavy and expensive, large diameter umbilicals, to stack integrated ecofriendly closed loop subsea electrohydraulic control system. Demonstration will be provided on how experience has enabled interfaces and communications both electrical and hydraulic, with various manufactures' subsea trees, through the use of modular and flexible solutions with services customized for desired operational needs for the short and long term throughout the life of field. Add-on control unit module enabling control of cross vendor systems will also be presented.

Technology, operational experience and standardization have evolved over the years and have resulted in a set of robust system building blocks, which enable multi-functionality. The most recent systems are able to perform a large number of operations on a multi-field basis. From early 2000's, combined Workover Control Systems (WOCS) have been developed. These enable operation between open water systems and landing string systems, as well as for control of multi-fields and multi-vendor systems.

The scope of RLWI service is currently being expanded. An optimization of the second generation RLWI system suitable for deepwater application in the USA GOM will be described featuring the latest generation of fiber optics, electrical and electro hydraulic technology.
Alternative Technologies in Drill-In Fluids for Depleted Reservoirs
Authors: Gianoglio I. , Luzardo J. , Derks P. W. J. , Perez Gramatges A. , Nascimento R. , Oliveira E. P. , Sbaglia F. , Valle R. , Inderberg K.
Published: October 2015

Induced losses occur when the drilling fluid density, required for well control and to maintain wellbore stability, exceeds the fracture resistance of the formations. Depleted reservoirs present a particular challenge. As the reserves decline, the pore pressure decreases, which weakens hydrocarbon-bearing rocks. Nearby or interbedded low permeability rocks, however, may maintain their pore pressure. This scenario can make the drilling of certain depleted zones extremely difficult because the fluid density necessary to support the shale exceeds the fracture resistance of the sands and silts. This situation worsens in offshore operations where logistics impose additional limitations to the capacity of combating mud losses. The potential benefit is clear if a drill-in fluid system can be designed with a density that meets the low pore pressure and fracture gradient levels necessary to drill the reservoir and/or if the fluid includes specially designed lost circulation material to effectively bridge or seal the formation. In both cases, these methods should provide the possibility for removal at a later stage in order to minimize productivity impairments.

This paper presents an extensive review of the various technologies, both proven and potential, in drill-in fluids for depleted reservoirs.

This paper organizes the discussed technologies separately by the density range that they can cover. It also describes the state of the art advantages, limitations, and suggested specific applications, including the required development to expand the application and status of the technologies. Discussions include specific information about safety considerations, cost, and environmental issues associated with each technology. Such technologies include drilling blind, well flowing drilling, managed pressure drilling, aerated mud, foam drilling, air or mist drilling, structured microbubbles of air (aphrons), emulsions (both direct and invert), and the addition of hollow spheres (glass spheres, cenospheres, and plastic spheres).

This review compiles crucial information necessary to design and formulate the proper low density drill-in fluid to address depleted reservoir challenges.
High Pressure Deepwater Grip & Seal Connectors for Capping Stack Applications on Tension Leg Platforms
Authors: Smith N. , Charalambides J.
Published: October 2015

For well containment operations under tension leg or spar platforms, a connector is required to attach a capping stack to a free flowing riser in the event the wellhead connector cannot be accessed and/or released to directly attach the capping stack. This paper describes the engineering challenges and solutions for capping stack connectors – high-pressure grip and seal connectors – to attach to 10 ¾"-15K and 16"-10K risers for the Shell Mars B Development in the Gulf of Mexico.
Seafloor Drill Technology - Bearing Capacity and Breakout Force Analysis
Authors: Cooper A. G. , Gan K. , Hoare S. D.
Published: October 2015

This paper provides a background on remotely operated seafloor drill technology and its benefits to the offshore industry. It also presents a bearing capacity and breakout force analysis for Fugro's Seafloor Drill I at a deepwater location. Both Seafloor Drill I and Seafloor Drill II are used to complete offshore geotechnical and geohazard site investigations.

The Seafloor Drills are sophisticated data gathering devices rather than simple coring tools and can operate in water depths up to 4,000m (13,000 ft) and on seafloor slopes up to 25°. They are capable of performing rotary drilling, coring, sampling, and in situ testing including piezocone penetration tests with real-time observation to 150m (490 ft) below the seafloor. Custom-built containers are used to ship the Seafloor Drills globally where they are mobilized onto vessels of opportunity. Also, controlling the Seafloor Drills via an umbilical maximizes personnel safety while mitigating shallow gas events.

Distributing the Seafloor Drills' submerged weight over a larger bearing area is an effective approach to reduce bearing pressures; however by expanding the bearing area, higher pullout loads are required to recover the Seafloor Drills back to the vessel. Proper consideration needs to be given to this inverse relationship between bearing pressures and pullout loads when using seafloor drill technology.

In order to reach deeper water depths with conventional drill ships, aluminum drill pipe was introduced through the water column. This method decreased the hook load on the drill rig rather than necessitating larger drill rigs and vessels. Seafloor drilling systems are the latest innovative technology to explore the next frontier of ultra-deepwater locations. Since the Seafloor Drills use neutrally buoyant umbilicals, bearing pressures and ultimately breakout forces do not increase with water depth. By using a patented braid design, these umbilicals also serve as the strength members for the Seafloor Drills.
BC-10-Optimizing Subsea Production
Authors: Sleight N. C. , Oliveira N.
Published: October 2015

The Shell operated BC-10 field located in deepwater, 1650-1920m (5500’-6400’), offshore Brazil produces heavy oil in the range of API 16-24. Due to the low reservoir energy and deep water environment, 100% of BC-10 production has artificial lift. Mudline caisson separators with ESPs (Electrical Submersible Pumps) are used to process fluids from multiple wells and boost them to the receiving FPSO. These caissons are 80-100m (260’-330’) deep and each houses a 1600HP pump. The 4 distinct fields are located approximately 8-14km from the producing FPSO and there are significant flow assurance challenges in operating the asset. Over the past 5 years, production optimizations have been trialed and implemented – some successful, some not. In this paper several examples will be given of production optimization which has resulted in increased throughput of the system without mechanical modifications, reduced OPEX on chemicals and taken advantage of natural changes in fluid properties as the field has aged. The optimizations included; caisson foam management to enhance flowline lift, subsea demulsifier injection for viscosity reduction and alterations to gas-liquid subsea separation to achieve high and low GOR operation.

Through these optimizations, it is estimated that 2MM bbl additional volumes were produced in 2013-2014 together with a $4MM US/year reduction in chemical usage. The enabling factors for these optimizations will be examined in relation to system design and surveillance.
Optimization of Reservoir Development Plan Using the System OCTOPUS
Authors: Lima Rafael , Abreu Ana Carolina , Pacheco Marco Aurélio
Published: October 2015

The oil production optimization involves a multidisciplinary expert team to draw up development plans to oil field, making strategic and operational decisions considering possible alternatives. The decisions seek to increase the oil recovery and the net present value of the project. This fact highlights the need to build a robust support tool that allows experts to make better and fast decisions.

This paper describes optimization of reservoir devopment plan using a computer system, called OCTOPUS. The OCTOPUS system was created to assist the experts in drawing up reservoir development plans, for that the system is composed by some subsystems responsible for otimize specifically tasks in reservoir development, involving the oil production strategy. These subsystems are related with 1) the optimization of the number, location, type and trajectory of wells, 2) wells open scheduling and 3) location and sizing of stationary production units. This paper is focused on the first subsystem described, considering the allocation of wells.

This support system has been applied to a synthetic reservoir model based on the Namorado field, Campos basin, Brazil. The objective of the study cases is to take decision regarding exploitation strategy selection in initial stage of an offshore oil field. We consider three cases that require for well placement: case 1, that already has 4 well pre-allocated that shoud be considered in time to allocate more wells; case 2, that has no wells previously allocated and has producers and water and gas injectors available to be allocated; and case 3, that also has no wells previously allocated but has producers and water injectors well to be allocated. The results compare the placement plans for all the cases considered showing the possible gains between then, comparing the net present value and also the cumulative production.
Developing A New High-Strength, Lightweight Material Using Nano-Coated Smart Materials for Oilfield Applications
Authors: Carrejo N. , Espinoza O. R. , Wibowo H. , Gaudette S. L.
Published: October 2015

As the oil and gas industry moves to more challenging completions and drilling of ultra-deep, high-pressure wells, emerging technologies are required to increase reliability while maximizing performance and minimizing operational costs. The development of a high-strength disintegrating metallic (HSDM) material is one such technology. HSDM incorporates high ultimate-compressive strength (UCS) and an engineered disintegrating mechanism tailored per application. The high-strength rating of HSDM accelerated the development of disintegrating gas lift valves (GLV) which reduce non-productive rig time by eliminating an intervention run. The unique lightweight property enabled tripping balls, capable of holding 15 ksi frac pressures, to have comparable densities to weaker phenolic materials. The ability for the new composite metallic to disintegrate in common wellbore fluids provides flow assurance by eliminating production risks provided by common tripping balls. These applications validated the reliability of the material with hundreds of GLVs and thousands of tripping balls utilized in wells around the world. The technology was expanded into high-impacting telescoping ports (HITP), pre-perforated liners and other applications meant to increase the efficiency of delivery systems in hydraulic fracturing or acid stimulation treatments. The HSDM is highly compatible with oil-based mud systems, enabling this smart material to be incorporated within drilling liners or extended-reach production strings while operating as a fluid-loss barrier. The application enables the operator to ensure proper fluid placement while having the option to displace to brine systems or acid to remove the HSDM barriers to provide formation access. This paper outlines the development of the innovative smart material and presents the inclusion and functionality of HSDM within many applications.
Application of Reliability Analysis to Re-Qualification and Life Extension of FPU Mooring Systems
Authors: Johnstone D. , Rosen J. , Hourigan D. , Kilner A. , Sincock P. , Carra C.
Published: October 2015

This paper details the application of a reliability approach to re-qualification and life extension of FPU moorings. Operators are including FPU moorings in their corporate asset integrity management strategy, driven by changing production requirements, the requirement to extend service life, or circumstances where the met-ocean Basis of Design has increased significantly over the life of the field. Reliability methods are gaining increasing acceptance as increased computing power allows large numbers of simulations to be undertaken using realistic fully coupled models previously validated against experiments. Reliability analysis offers considerable advantages over conventional deterministic return period design when applied to the re-qualification and life extension of FPU moorings, particularly with regard to re-qualification and life extension of in-place moorings. An application of the technique is illustrated by a case study of the life extension of an FPU mooring with design met-ocean conditions that have increased significantly over the life of the field. Discussion points include explicit identification of the most likely failure scenario versus uncertainty as to whether the worst design case has been identified and the potential for rapid reassessment of reliability for specific design conditions, such as a degraded mooring system or a system for which degradation is ongoing. The results demonstrate the significant advantages to the industry conferred by adopting reliability methods in the re-certification and life extension of existing FPU moorings, where conventional mooring code deterministic design methods, whilst adequate for original design purposes, lack sufficient fidelity to address the multi- faceted issue of re-assessment of notionally marginal legacy systems. This technique is applicable to a wide range of FPUs requiring re-qualification or life extension, and will also provide insights to more efficient and reliable mooring design for new FPUs. For an existing, possibly degraded, mooring, application of these methods can demonstrate that the level of reliability of the system is still acceptable, while a conventional approach may produce an over-conservative indication that the mooring is non-compliant.
Rigorous Integrated Production Modelling of Cold Flow Technologies
Authors: Watson M. J. , Speranza A. , LaCombe M.
Published: October 2015

In order to properly assess the economics of Cold Flow, one should properly assess its effect on the resistances to flow from the reservoir and hence expected future revenue (i.e. production profile) from the project. Traditionally, Integrated Production Models (IPM) are used to calculate production profiles subject to resistances to flow between the reservoir and the sales point. However, traditional IPM tools have relatively simplistic physical model of the flowing system. Many must make "black oil" assumptions and ignore thermal effects in order to run in a reasonable timeframe. Of the few that can carry out thermal hydraulic compositional network simulations, most were generally only designed to trace three phases (gas, oil and water) and hence cannot be used to assess the economics of cold flow technologies. This paper describes how various cold flow and conventional technologies were investigated using a unique combination of an IPM tool, a topsides process simulator and a PVT tool that can all trace several thermodynamic phases. The formation and dissociation of the gas, liquids and hydrate phases were predicted and tracked throughout the system, subject to the local pressures, enthalpies and compositions. In doing so, the effect of the presence of hydrates on the field life thermal hydraulics, including the production profile could be modelled. Some counter intuitive results were found in the comparison to conventional technologies; hydrate slurries are not all bad news for the back pressure on the wells. However, not only was the production profile forecasted, but also numerous practical issues associated with cold flow could be investigated.
APB Mitigation Techniques and Design Procedure
Authors: Santos H. L. , Rocha J. S. , Ferreira M. V. , Lima V. , Souza C. O. , Borges A. , Silva E. C.
Published: October 2015

There are several cases of wells with potential or identified Annulus Pressure Buildup (APB) problems, especially at offshore fields. Historical failure examples happened at the Marlin field and at the Ponpano A-31 well, both in the Gulf of Mexico. The objective of this article is to present several alternatives for mitigating this problem and the design procedure for each one. In order to find and list those procedures, the literature was initially reviewed. More than 15 techniques were identified and classified in four groups: pressure relief, structural strength increase, fluid compressibility increase and thermal insulation. Afterwards, their design procedures were outlined, as well as its applications. When necessary, the authors performed some tests. Finally, a model well is used as example and the application of each technique is illustrated.
The Evolution and Application Development of High-Performance, Thin- Film, Dry-Lubricant Coatings
Authors: Pernice Guglielmo
Published: October 2015

The evolution of high-performance thin-film dry-lubricant coatings goes back to the early 1970s, when the Whitford Corporation introduced the first of its kind dry-film lubricant coating to replace phosphate & oil and greases. For the purposes of this document, the focus is solely on thin-film coatings used in oil and gas applications applied at less than 37 µm (1.5 mils) dry-film thickness (DFT).

As with most products in most industries, high-performance, thin-film, dry-lubricant coatings came about due to a pressing need to solve specific problems. In this case, the Oil & Gas industry (O&G) was facing serious problems with fasteners: torque consistency, corrosion, and galling in offshore and coastal installations . The fastener application added the complexity of tight tolerances of the mating faces that must be respected. The chief problem was achieving uniform torque values around a flange. The method commonly used was either phosphate and oil or bonded molybdenum and graphite, but neither was capable of achieving uniform friction from fastener to fastener.

One of the first introduced was a coating based on a Polyamide Imide binder resin (PAI). PAI offers ease of application, a wide operating temperature range from -250 to 260°C (-420 to 500°F) and good chemical and abrasion resistance. With a variety of lubricant packages available to coating formulators, the PAI 1000 series grew to meet additional needs in new applications. Typical lubricant formulations by the PAI 1000 series include PTFE, FEP and PTFE/MoS2 . This versatile series solved problems for a variety of applications such as fasteners, blow-out preventers, valves and tubing hangers, to list a few. All these applications require a low coefficient of friction, dry lubrication, torque consistency, anti-galling and improved corrosion performance in tight tolerance applications, which, when met, afforded users operational consistency, improved safety and a lower total cost of operation and ownership.
Sapinhoÿ Field, Santos Basin Pre-Salt: From Conceptual Design to Project Execution and Results
Authors: Naveiro J. Turazzi , Haimson D.
Published: October 2015

This article presents how the development of Sapinhoá field took place, covering the fast track transition and decision making process from appraisal phase to conceptual and basic engineering of Sapinhoá Pilot project, and its subsequent execution, highlighting the challenges, lessons learned and results obtained.

Located in Santos basin pre-salt cluster, 300 km off the coast of SÃo Paulo state, Sapinhoá field was discovered in June/2008, and quickly entered an evaluation program, which included appraisal wells, one extended well test and one early production system, performed by Petrobras (Operator) and its partners BG E&P Brasil and Repsol Sinopec Brasil.

Even though at the time a number of uncertainties to develop pre-salt areas was still present, such as reservoir heterogeneity, recovery method, fluid properties (including CO2 distribution along the reservoir), well construction technologies, riser qualification, among others, a fast track strategy was chosen. Therefore the implementation of a Pilot project was seen as a mean to provide valuable information for the remaining development of Sapinhoá and other fields in the pre-salt cluster.

In order to cope with these challenges, Petrobras and its partners chartered the FPSO Cidade de SÃo Paulo, with 120,000 bpd oil capacity and specifications capable to comply with different recoverable methods and produced fluids. Also, for the subsea system, a new riser concept was selected through a design competition process, the so called "SCR on BSR" (Steel Catenary Risers - SCR on Buoy Supporting Risers - BSR), with two large structures positioned approximately 250 meters below the sea surface, supporting from 22 to 28 of a mix of rigid and flexible risers and umbilicals.

Sapinhoá Pilot started its wells construction campaign in 2012 and currently plans to achieve scope completion with only 85% of the approved duration, due to the implementation of a series of improvements in well’s projects. The production unit was delivered before schedule, enabling start-up in early January 2013. Full capacity was achieved in July 2014, with only four producer wells, some with potentials of up to 35 thousand bbl/d. This was achieved after the successful installation of the innovative BSR project, which faced and surpassed a series of challenges in the construction and offshore campaign phases.

The paper describes the solutions adopted in all disciplines, from subsurface to topside facilities, and how uncertainties were mitigated in Sapinhoá Pilot development during engineering phases, and the challenges and lessons learned this fast-track project faced during construction and installation.
2-Pronge Approach for Improved Operating Range of Electrostatic Crude Oil Treaters
Authors: Sellman Erik , Mandewalkar Pavan
Published: October 2015

Floating production facilities are very sensitive to equipment weight and footprint. New electrostatic technologies have enhanced the dehydration and desalting processes for crude oil by increasing the electrostatic field strength of the treaters and improving treater hydraulics, allowing the use of compact and lighter equipment with a larger operating window.

Topsides processes on offshore platforms include a series of process vessels for oil / water / gas separation, with separate polishing processes for the separated gas and produced water phases. The wider the operating window and the higher the process efficiency for each process step, the fewer number of process steps is required and the more compact the separation train.

This paper describes a 2-pronge approach for the crude oil dehydration process, providing an increased operating window for more effective crude oil dehydrators and desalters. Thus fewer and more compact process vessels can be used while still maintaining the required process performance. The paper also includes special considerations for slosh suppression, instrumentation and operating procedures, in addition to case stories with examples of compact equipment installed on FPSOs, SPARs, TLPs and semi submersibles.

This 2-pronge approach for crude oil dehydration and desalting combines high bulk water removal efficiency in the initial step and a high dehydration efficiency in the second step, providing benefits including:

an increased operating window in terms of crude oil inlet water cut and API gravity

use of smaller and more effective electrostatic treaters with lower CAPEX

a reduced OPEX from lower operating temperature, reduced demulsifier dosage and less dilution water for desalting

Further benefits include high frequency and amplitude modulated electrostatic fields, improved electrode configurations and materials, as well as improved fluid distribution inside the electrostatic treaters.