bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managers' Responses to the Challenges of Globalization Within the Context of Global Political Economy
Authors: Attar Melis , Köprülü Gülşah
Published: April 2017

The new international system, that occurs in the last twenty years of twentieth century as a result of world wars and cold war, is tried to be explained by scholars and economists under a new discipline called global political economy. The interaction and interdependence between economy and policy, globalization and the rise of multinational corporations cause a shift in the international system. International managers appear as the core actors in the sense that actions to be taken by them have strategic importance for organization's global performance and sustainability. Globalization put multiple demands on international managers in terms of various issues such as changing nature of the work itself, glocalization, importance of ethics, environmental considerations and cultural diversity. It is suggested that international managers' leadership behaviors have strategic importance to cope with globalization and its challenges. Within this context, transformational, ethical and authentic leadership styles will be discussed.
Making Sense of Information Technology Investment on Type of Supply Chain Governance
Authors: Dolci Pietro Cunha , Maçada Antonio Carlos Gastaud , Grant Gerald G.
Published: April 2017

This study makes sense of how information technology (IT) investment supports and relates to SCG and its conceptions (transactional and relational). The authors conducted a qualitative research using exploratory case studies in two large Brazilian companies and two major suppliers. Top supply chain executives of these companies were interviewed. We found differences in how these companies invest in IT to govern their supply chain. In the first case, we identified a more relational type of governance that was mainly based on the company's relationship with its suppliers which was driven by the desire to achieve a greater market share. Here IT investments were used to improve sales and enable operations planning projects where all systems were being integrated. In the second case, we identified transactional governance as the predominant form. This reflects the presence of a great number of suppliers, low partnership and low supply on time delivery rate. Thus, investments on e-procurement and ERP are being made to achieve more relational governance through integration with their suppliers.
Human Resource Management IT and Global Economy Perspective
Authors: Turulja Lejla , Bajgoric Nijaz
Published: April 2017

This chapter consolidates the state of academic research on the relation between information technology, globalization and human resource management. Main conclusions of the literature review can be summarized into several groups. First, there is evident flow of trends linking the development of information technology, business globalization and changes in the ways of doing business. Second, all these trends have caused the emergence of a new economic order that is known in the literature as the New or the Global economy. Third, human resources are the most valuable assets in the Global economy and it is therefore crucial for firms to successfully manage these assets. Fourth, like other functions, HRM function is heavily influenced by information technology. Fifth, the importance of information technology for HRM is evident for firms operating in one country and especially those that operate internationally. Finally, there is a lack of studies on the global HRIS.
That's So Last Season!
Authors: Ahmad Norita , Monfaradi Mahmood
Published: April 2017

This paper explores Information Technology (IT) adoption behavior in firms as fashion first and a means of leveraging competitive advantage second. In this paper, IT is treated as a product and compared to fashion apparel through a distinct set of characteristics that define the behavior and nature of the apparel market. The underlying questions that are posed by this paper is twofold: (1) Is IT in fashion? (2) If it is, then how does it affect the adoption of IT from a behavioral perspective and what are the results? Through an exploratory study of the topic, this paper seeks to provide further insight to firms on how to go about adopting new innovative technologies. Moreover, by enticing firms to pay special attention to detecting and predicting such fashions and the value they add, this paper sets the ground for future research in the field of emerging technologies and IT adoption.
Creation of an ARM© Cortex©-M Based Microcontroller for Downhole Electronic Systems
Authors: Bannatyne R. , Gifford D. , Klein K. , Merritt C. , Neddermeyer S.
Published: April 2017

This paper will describe the development and testing of a new ARM® Cortex®-M based microcontroller for high temperature downhole electronic systems. The trade-offs in the selection of each on-chip peripheral will be discussed with respect to their requirement in the application. Particular detail will be afforded to the underlying high-temperature implementation technology that allows reliable operation at extreme temperatures. High temperature and electrical overstresses can cause latch-up in CMOS devices that will interfere with normal device operation or destroy the device. For reliable operation in the downhole drilling environment it was necessary to immunize this device against latch-up using an innovative processing technique. Details on the qualification and testing of the product to ensure that it meets the challenging environment will also be discussed. This includes electrical testing and temperature cycling testing to ensure that the different package options for the silicon device are mechanically sound in a high temperature environment that exposes the silicon and packaging materials to thermal cycling. The ecosystem for the microcontroller will also be discussed – hardware and software development tools are required to optimize the use of the device in a downhole drilling embedded system. A set of companion components is also required to operate with the microcontroller in the high temperature harsh environment. The components that were selected for use on the high temperature test boards will also be discussed.
Adequate Fatigue Design for HPHT
Authors: Patel Harish , Ji Jing , Meruva Satya , Lin Jessie
Published: April 2017

Recent experiences with manufacturers, operators, rig contractors, and industry committees will be shared to provide a broad, high-level overview of a design concept that is new to many segments of our industry. The paper is intended to initiate further discussions while providing insights for the future design of high-pressure, high-temperature (HP/HT) equipment. Current gaps in equipment codes and design standards along with a fundamental shift in design methods have created unique challenges with a need for modification. Guidance documents available to the designers and manufacturers of HP/HT equipment are limited with respect to prescriptive requirements, and more work is required.

This paper addresses the application of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) codes and standards, (or a functional equivalent,) for HP/HT oil field equipment in proposed subsea environments that include exposure to harsh fluids. It will also discuss what is required to adequately evaluate fatigue design concepts. Further dialogue is needed to appropriately address the concerns of regulators, manufacturers, and operators regarding the optimum method to achieve a safe fatigue-sensitive designs. The United States Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) requirements for fatigue-sensitive applications require a detailed verification and validation of equipment designs, materials selection, and the manufacturing process.

Criticality of key components in an HP/HT system and their impact on fatigue design and safety margins for fatigue design will be discussed. In addition, suitability of using engineering codes written for pressure vessels for the design of HP/HT well control equipment will be deliberated. Restrictions on elastomers in the operating or working temperature ranges will be examined. The paper will consider whether the API codes being written currently receive adequate input to address all the appropriate failure modes and if there is sufficient levels of industry representation to define and publish new API standards. Lastly, as new regulations are developed, feasibility for companies to implement HP/HT drilling and production systems are to be discussed.

The conclusions outlined in this paper are not intended to define the HP/HT processes and procedures. The intent is to discuss the issues examined collectively and perhaps to help establish some guidelines for future considerations.
General Design of Lean MEG Storing in the Jacket Legs on Liwan Gas Field of South China Sea
Authors: Xia Zhi , Jinlin Hou , Li Zhijun , Zhou Xiaohong
Published: April 2017

The biggest fixed jacket in Asia, Liwan 3-1 (hereafter LW3-1) jacket, has adopted an innovative design to store lean MEG (Mono-Ethylene Glycol), which directly reduces the platform weight by 1500 ton and saves 10 million dollars. Unlike the usual jacket, 4 corner legs of LW3-1 jacket not only support the huge topside module, they also store 1500 m3lean MEG. It is the first time for jacket's legs to store such a large quantity of lean MEG in the offshore engineering of the world.

This project provides a reference for large storage of MEG in deep water fixed platform. Moreover, many techniques used in this project, such as liquid extraction with pump and sealed by pressurized nitrogen, dynamic analysis for jacket legs with liquid storage, the anti-corrosion method of thermal spraying aluminum for offshore engineering structure and offer practical experiences for similar programs.
Great Australian Bight: New Offshore Frontiers, Challenges and Potential Solutions
Authors: Woodhams C. A. , Heshmati E. , Ruskin A. C.
Published: April 2017

The Great Australian Bight(GAB) has been subjected to exploration for the past five decades with no major hydrocarbon discoveries, and could be defined as a new frontier for oil and gas development. BP has recently committed to a drilling campaign in the region and establishing key infrastructure indicating potential for a significant hydrocarbon discovery. The key challenges for developing in this area are; ➢Remoteness–Closest population 300km away, nearest oil & gas infrastructure +1,000km away➢Deep water – Area explored range from 1,000m to 3,000m➢Harsh Environment–100yr storm estimate significant wave height 13m, period 12s, andcurrent 1m/s➢Limited information for long term modelling of the environment

This paper has focused on the evaluating different development options against the challenges, with mostof the data being based upon public information from BP drill sites. The focus of the technical feasibility assessment is on the potential production mechanism used to enable the development i.e. fixed or floating platform or other facility. This conceptual review forms the preliminary basis for concept selection for a field in this new and environmentally highly sensitive area and as such it is expected that several potential offshore development options are to be presented.
Seismic Site Response Analyses of Bay of Campeche Clay Using Predicted Dynamics Soil Properties
Authors: Taboada Victor M. , Flores Lopez Francisco A. , Dantal Vishal , Roque Diego Cruz , Nabor Procoro Barrera
Published: April 2017

Seismic site response analyses are an important first step in the seismic evaluation of fixed offshore platforms in the Bay of Campeche. This analysis is used to estimate ground motions for the development of design response spectra, dynamic stresses, strains, and displacements within the soil profile and liquefaction hazard analyses. Seismic site response analyses of a clayey deposit located in the Bay of Campeche is performed using predicted dynamic soil properties, including the in-situ shear wave velocity based on empirical correlations developed for the Bay of Campeche clay, the shear modulus reduction curves and the material damping ratio curves based on equations also developed for the Bay of Campeche clay. The main objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of using predicted modulus reduction and material damping ratio curves on the design acceleration spectrum at the depth of maximum soil-pile interaction. Site response analyses is also performed using other generic modulus reduction and damping curves presented by Vucetic and Dobry (1991), and Darendeli (2001).The spectral acceleration amplitudes are underestimated when the curves of modulus reduction and material damping ratio of Vucetic and Dobry (1991) and Darendeli (2001) are used in the site response analyses, and overestimated when the curves proposed by Taboada et al., (2017) are used. It is found when comparing the results using laboratory curves that at the depth of maximum soil-pile interaction the maximum ground acceleration and the plateau of the design acceleration spectra are over estimated by 4% when the predicted modulus reduction and damping ratio curves are obtained using the equations developed by Taboada et al., (2017).Therefore, it is important to use predictive equations of modulus reduction and material damping ratio curves developed specifically for the Bay of Campeche clay when dynamic laboratory data is not available to generate these curves.
Development of a High Hang Weight Expandable Liner Hanger for Deepwater Applications
Authors: Zhong Allan , Moeller Daniel , Maddux Stephen
Published: April 2017

Liner hangers are expected to maintain anchor capability and pressure integrity throughout the life of the well. For deepwater applications where hang weights, temperature requirements, and operational expenses can be considerably higher, liner-hanger performance is even more important. A new concept was proposed to make expandable liner hangers (ELHs) more robust and less sensitive to high temperatures and temperature variations.

The concept of a new metal-sealing ELH was initiated to provide metal-to-metal sealing capability at elevated temperatures and in applications that require additional anchor capacity. During the development process, finite element analysis (FEA) and numerical optimization techniques were used to fine-tune the concept and optimize a 7- × 9 5/8-in. hanger design. The concept was extended to multiple sizes and made more robust for downhole environments after successful testing validations.

The optimized 7- × 9 5/8-in. hanger design was then physically tested and validated at 400°F. The liner hanger passed all executed testing including pressure testing from above and below and hang-weight testing. Results indicated that the hanger design is insensitive to downhole temperatures and has a high hang-weight capacity. The concept has since been extended to include multiple sizes and more robust features for downhole environments. Field trials to date have been successful in several regions, including the Gulf of Mexico, North Sea, West Africa, and Malaysia.

This paper presents a new ELH design and discusses the significant time and cost reductions resulting from the development using numerical analysis and optimization. Case histories of successful field trials are also presented. The new concept ELH has been proven to provide robust high-hanging capacity for a wide range of temperatures during validation testing and field trials.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Operational Risk Assessments in Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Laskar Sandipan
Published: April 2017

The oil and gas industry has long recognized the necessity of periodically revalidating operational risk assessments by performing Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), such as Hazard and Operability Studies and What-if analyses. To be successful in creating a sustainable business in hazardous industries, organization need to collectively manage risk across their operations in a routine and efficient way. This requires a change in the dynamic between safety and productivity, where safety is not set against production and risk mitigation becomes an integral part of efficient and effective operations. CCPS has published a book which describes this work process titled Revalidating Process Hazard Analyses. However, there is limited guidance for revalidating supplemental risk analyses. The objectives of performing periodic revalidations are to address the cumulative changes in risk that occur over time and to continuously improve our understanding of that risk.

The purpose of operational risk assessments is to identify and understand the hazards associated with the process being reviewed, to understand the potential resultant hazardous events, and to prevent those events by identifying all the potential routes to those events and ensuring that adequate safeguards are in place to mitigate their risk. The application of a suitable hazards evaluation methodology (e.g., Hazard and Operability [HAZOP], Failure Mode and Effect Analysis [FMEA], What If, Checklist) is a core process of the risk assessment. All of the most-used methodologies are ultimately just different ways of asking "What If" questions. The key to success is asking (and, of course, correctly answering) the "right" What If questions. This paper will look at how a variation on an old theme can significantly improve the likelihood of asking all of the right questions, in a way that capitalizes on the strengths of some of the other approaches while avoiding their weaknesses. The work process mentioned in this paper will be illustrated with actual field examples and case studies.

This paper will guide operation managers, Health and Safety (HS) managers, and risk assessment team in effective preparation before and during a risk assessment meeting thereby can reduce the total resources required and improve the overall efficiency. The work process furnishes a company with an effective tool for revalidating operational risk assessments and will provide a holistic and common mean of balancing risk against production at all levels of the operation.
Mechanically Joined Pipes for HPHT Risers and Flowlines
Authors: Chaudhury Gautam
Published: April 2017

We produce good quality, high strength, and sour resistant steel, but industry confidence in offshore welds to 65 Ksi and conservative codes lead to very thick pipes for all HPHT risers (SCR, Dry tree, drilling) and flowlines. Cumulative adverse effects of very thick and low D/t ratio pipes on pipe manufacturing, welding, inspection, and installation mean an alternative pragmatic enabler is essential. When compared with active HIPPS (High Integrity Pressure Protection System), a passive full pressure capable system was found with better life cycle cost, greater confidence, and higher risk assurance. A full pressure system, using mechanical connector, is an enabler for HPHT risers and flowlines.

Different types of mechanical connectors, using high strength pipes, have been examined through the whole spectrum of materials selection, quality manufacture, application and installation, reliability, and pipe joint repair/replacement in deep water. Relative costs amongst alternatives, technology status, qualifications required, and risk management issues have been assessed.

Mechanical connectors were found suitable for joining high strength pipes. There are different types of connectors to choose from depending on the types of risers and flowlines and attending pressure, temperature, and application. Grayloc connector demonstrated some limited use, especially as an enabler for easy repair replacement of high temperature flowlines. It has the potential to be a strong contender if some efforts in new design and qualification tests are provided.
A Revised Interpretation of Vortex-Induced Vibration
Authors: Lee Li , Dynamics Lee
Published: April 2017

Vortex-induced vibration (VIV) is a well-known phenomenon in the fields of physics and engineering. However, the description on vortex-shedding from a flexible or an elastically restrained cylinder (such as a deepwater riser or a floater) is somewhat primitive. When such a structure experiences flowing fluids, the pressure build-up at the stagnation point near the leading edge is automatically assumed by many. As a result, the vortex-shedding theories on stationary cylinders have been applied to the compliant structures without modification. It is believed that the lack of a sound understanding and explanation of this complex hydroelastic phenomenon has, to a certain degree, hindered VIV research and design. Based on VIV tests and test data, the author proposes a revised interpretation of VIV for the widely used compliant structures in offshore and marine engineering. The VIV process is first examined; starting from the instant the flow encounters the structure. The key events leading to VIV are identified and the relations among them are explored, such as that between the deflection and vortex-shedding. A new parameter characterizing a structure, termed as the coefficient of compliance, is then introduced. Its impacts on a number of VIV response parameters are qualitatively described. Along this line, the issues on VIV experiment, computer simulation, and VIV design are briefly discussed. Ideas on further research and development are suggested. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the effects of the structural compliance on VIV, and provoke others to look into these important influences, so that the VIV design can be established on a more solid foundation.
Time-Domain Research on Integrated Coupling Model of MODU, Drilling Riser and Wellhead
Authors: Leixiang Sheng , Liangbin Xu , Jianliang Zhou , Jingrui Zhao
Published: April 2017

The coupling effects between MODU and slim drilling riser are of primary importance in analysis of dynamic response of drilling riser system. However,, the effect of MODU on drilling riser is simplified in conventional model in a way of only considering RAO of MODU in frequency-domain, ignoring the response of MODU on current and wave in time-domain.

In practical, the fitness-for-purpose assessment of drilling riser and wellhead is over-conservative by using conventional model, which will induce redundant design of wellhead strength, MODU capacity requirement, and drilling riser emergency evacuation response plan, consequently increase design and operating cost. As a result there is a requirement for more refined methodologies and finite element models to evaluate the coupling effect between MODU and drilling riser in time-domain.

This paper proposes a new model, an integrated coupling model incorporated MODU, drilling riser and wellhead system, in which the response of MODU on current and wave in time-domain is considered, In addition, a case study of the new model accounting for South China Sea environmental loading is presented in this paper. A number of conclusions drawn from the case study are outlined. Firstly, it is found that drilling riser has an inhibiting effect on the movement of MODU under wave and current loading, the more MODU drift-off, the stronger restoring force acts on MODU. This will actually improve drilling riser capacity against MODU drift-off. Secondly, hysteresis effect is found between drilling riser and wellhead stress peak and MODU drift-off peak. There are some lag between each other, When the MODU drift-off reaches its peak, the stress of drilling riser and wellhead does not reach its peak. It is shown in a case study, the peak stress of drilling riser lags 40s behind the peak MODU drift-off, and the peak stress of wellhead lags 60s behind the peak MODU drift-off.

As a conclusion the integrated coupling model is a more refined model to simulate the interaction between MODU and drilling riser system in time domain, which enhances the accuracy of drilling riser and wellhead fitness for purpose assessment and lead to a more optimal design of drilling riser system.
Piloting the ADNOC Group Process for New Technology Development and Qualification
Authors: El-Gharbawy Sherif , Beydoun Wafik , Abdul-Halim Abdulla , Khan Ibrahim
Published: April 2017

The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) Exploration, Development, and Production (EDP) R&D Department has developed a new, Stage-Gate process for new technology development and qualification, Tech Qual, for deployment across the ADNOC Group. The proposed process aims to minimize the Risk associated with deploying new technologies to a level that can be managed or mitigated, ensuring compliance with Operational constraints and promoting safety to our assets and the environment.

The Process, which is rooted in NASA's Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale, builds upon the shared heritage of ADNOC's Operating Companies (OPCOs) and our International Shareholders in developing and qualifying new technologies. It was launched in pilot status in Q3 2015 with the objective of becoming a powerful tool for centralizing and optimizing investment in new technology development (Tech Qual Stage Gate 1) and qualification (Tech Qual Stage Gate 2). It enables ADNOC and its OPCOs to make value-based decisions on allocation of R&D funding and sponsorship of new technologies in accordance with our Technology Roadmap.

In this paper, we present a background of the proposed ADNOC Tech Qual process, why and how it was developed. Also presented are cases in the qualification of new technologies under development or developed within the ADNOC Group or in collaboration with partner Shareholders and Service companies, spanning different intervals of the Technology Readiness Level scale and passing Stage Gates 1 or 2 of the Process. The technologies are qualified by means of select cross-functional, expert teams to ensure that they are strategically aligned with the Roadmap or respond to pressing Operational Challenges, possess the correct level of maturity on the TRL scale, and that resources are available to progress through the Stage Gate to the next phase of their technology life-cycle. Lessons are drawn from this experience for the shared benefit of the technology development community.

With the new Process, ADNOC creates a common language for maturing new technologies in a new culture of Innovation and Knowledge Sharing. Centralizing the Process improves its efficiency and reduces duplication of efforts by the Operating Companies. ADNOC hence maintains a catalogue of qualified new technologies to be made accessible to all Operating Companies. The ultimate benefit of the Process is UAE/ADNOC's ability to garner world-class experience and technology development partnerships as it pursues its long-term R&D Strategy.
Material Characterization Procedure for High Pressure High Temperature Applications Using API 17TR8 Criteria
Authors: Bunch Paul , Shademan Steven , Bajvani Arshad
Published: April 2017

API 17TR8 has been developed to be used as a general design guideline for high pressure high temperature (HPHT) applications. The input factors for design verification process are defined and procedures to evaluate the material's properties in the intended service environment are recommended within the document.

The goal of the material characterization work, Annex D of API 17TR8 2nd Edition, is to provide a standard approach to obtain materials data to use as input for design verification and analysis.

Environment can influence the material properties significantly, therefore, environmental conditions common to Gulf of Mexico for both oil and gas reservoirs were defined. In addition, the protocol defines the removal of test samples from a qualified forging.

This paper addresses environmental screening through slow strain rate test (SSRT) and the application of resulting reduction factors to the S-N fatigue, fracture toughness (FT), and fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) development within the relevant standards. Finally the paper explains how to obtain local strain limit damage using ASME Section VIII DIV 2 and DIV 3 criteria, as outlined in Annex E.

This paper discusses the basis and progression of Annex D into development of detailed material testing program for selected material specifications common in subsea applications.
A Perspective on the State of Knowledge Regarding Soil-Pipe Interaction for SCR Fatigue Assessments
Authors: Clukey E. C. , Aubeny C. P. , Zakeri A. , Randolph M. F. , Sharma P. P. , White D. J. , Sancio R. , Cerkovnik M.
Published: April 2017

The paper provides a review of the state of knowledge regarding the impact of soil response in the touchdown point region on Steel Catenary Riser (SCR) fatigue. For almost 20 years the impact of soil-pipe interaction on SCR fatigue has received considerable attention within the offshore geotechnical community. Over this course of time field measurements and a variety of experimental and analytical studies have been performed to determine the soil response necessary to characterize the soil-pipe interaction under long term loading conditions appropriate for fatigue. Little of this work has been integrated into existing codes and standards. This paper will summarize much of the new work to provide better insights on how to address the SCR fatigue problems and to serve as reference for future code modifications.
US Shale Revolution Impacts on Deepwater and Global Energy Landscape
Authors: Chin Y. Doreen , Roark Terren
Published: April 2017

This paper studies the impact of the US Unconventional Play (shale/tight oil/gas) Revolution on Deepwater industry, and on global energy landscape. The discussions are focus on, –What are the contributions of shale oil/gas to future US and global energy landscape?–Have the high development costs, environmental challenges, and low oil price impair this contribution?–How will the Deepwater industry live while facing the impact of low oil price and the Unconventional Revolution?

The unconventional play development in the US has unlocked massive shale oil/gas reserves, and has been considered as the biggest game changer of recent years. US has become the number one unconventional oil and gas producer in the world. Influenced by the US success, the global unconventional play exploration had been active until the market downturn.

Historical data are analyzed. Relationships among crude price/production/Dollar value/investment tendency are explored. Characteristic differences between unconventional onshore and offshore development are compared. The new movement of shale play development and its long-term impact on Deepwater and global energy landscape are discussed.

There are a numerous discussion in the industry around how the new trends of renewable energy may sunset the fossil energy industry, this paper will address this as well.

The cliff-drop in the oil price has forced both onshore and offshore producers to focus on significantly cutting development and production cost, in order to lower their break-even price to below the current market oil price level. Technologies for development and for operation excellence are the key contributors for both Deepwater and Unconventionals when facing the long term stagnant low oil price. This paper will present the findings of the study.
How Classification Societies can be Efficiently Involved in the Current Offshore Industry Cost Reduction Era
Authors: Benyessaad O. , Barras S. , Rocha G.
Published: April 2017

Classification Societies (CS) have accompanied Offshore Oil & Gas industry for decades to guarantee and enhance the safety of their installations through continuous improvement of design codes, standards, rules and methodologies. In today's environment, where the offshore industry business model is challenged, CS have joined the industry efforts to reduce development costs by proposing solutions to fight against cost escalation without compromising safety.

CS main role is to ensure compliance of projects with pre-defined set of rules, standards or specifications. As a guarantor of the safety, they have an in-depth understanding of the technical and regulatory challenges related to an offshore development and are regularly consulted on technical & economic questions. To accompany the Oil & Gas industry further, CS have extended their classic role related to safety and are now looking to propose integrated and collaborative solutions to assist the full supply chain in their cost reduction efforts. Standardization, integrated QA/QC, AIM are some of the key solutions investigated in this paper

For almost 200 years, CS have brought their expertise to service the Marine and then the Offshore industry with impartiality. By publishing rules and participating in projects from concept stage to decommissioning, they have contributed to the sustainability of the industry through the continuous integration of industry experience and lessons learnt in order to ensure continuous improvement in asset operational safety and integrity. In light of this, the CS are uniquely positioned to actively contribute to cost reduction initiatives.

Cost reduction is not only motivated by the current crisis, it is the new reality of the oil & gas industry. Future generations of oil & gas companies will have to develop their solutions on new bases and this paper aims at providing an outline of the key areas in which the Classification Societies can provide expert assistance.
The Stones Project: Subsea, Umbilical, Riser and Flowline Systems
Authors: Hoffman Joe , Clausing Katrina , Robinson Stuart , Subramanian Pravin , Zummo Ashley
Published: April 2017

The Stones project is located in the Walker Ridge (WR) area approximately 200 miles due south of New Orleans in 9,500 feet of water. The host facility is a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel with a disconnectable buoy that allows the FPSO to move off site in a hurricane event. Subsea wells are located in daisy chained drill centers that tie back to the FPSO via dual Steel Lazy Wave Risers and subsea flowlines. Other key subsea infrastructure includes two production manifolds, eight subsea trees, umbilicals and an artificial lift system. Produced gas is exported through a lateral pipeline which ties into the Walker Ridge Gathering System located in WR 457.

This paper provides an overview of the subsea and flowline system, overall flow assurance strategy, a description of the gas export pipeline, and challenges encountered during execution of the project.

Key challenges include the water depth at the site, furrowed seabed, metocean conditions, slope stability along the Sigsbee escarpment, the disconnectable buoy, flow assurance and changes mid execution due to deep and difficult wells.
Innovative and Cost Efficient Heat Traced Flowline with Improved Reliability
Authors: Lirola F. , Pionetti F-R. , Agoumi J. , Sundermann A.
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this publication is to present the development and qualification of an innovative heat traced flowline concept. Heat Tracing is a relevant solution for long tieback or when relying on a standard or hybrid production loop is not economical or not feasible. This concept is aimed at improving existing solutions and adapting the concept to J-laying installation methods thus allowing for the installation of larger diameters or accessing remote areas where a spooling base is not easily accessible.

The developed concept is based on a conventional sliding pipe in pipe configuration that has been adapted and improved in order to include a heat tracing capability while optimizing laying rates. As commonly used in heat traced pipe in pipe concept (e.g. onshore applications), the electrical cables are wound around the inner pipe, covered with insulating material and enclosed in an outer pipe. Fiber optic cables are in general added for temperature monitoring purposes. In the case of this solution, several innovations aimed at improving the overall performance of the system have been implemented and tested.

The proposed solution relies on a specific connector that allows for the simultaneous connection of all electrical wires and fiber optics in a single and quick operation. The concept of sliding pipe in pipe has also been improved, relying on packers and specific pipe end design that simplify the handling of quad joints and speed up offshore installation in J-lay. More specifically, the arrangement of the cables allows for an increased level of redundancy and reliability in the system while simplifying its operations. Finally, the pipe not being plastically deformed during installation fiber optics allow for the monitoring of both temperature and stress by the fiber optics. The paper will present: The main features of the concept;The qualification testing performed, including the connection system, fiber optics and packers;A specific focus on the reliability of the system;Details on the monitoring capabilities of the system which allows for improved operability.

All tests have been performed at full scale and included pressure, temperature and deformation testing. They allowed for the demonstration that all components can be easily integrated within a conventional Pipe in Pipe design while significantly facilitating offshore operations.

The performed tests allowed for validating and qualifying the design that is now ready for its first implementation.
Managing Liquid Accumulation in Large Diameter Gas-Condensate Pipelines
Authors: Zakarian E. , Morgan J. E. P.
Published: April 2017

Large diameter gas-condensate pipelines are rarely operated below their minimum turndown rate specified during design. However there are circumstances where operations at low flow rates are necessary, such as partial shutdown of downstream facilities, which may be planned or in response to abnormal situations.

At low flow rates, large liquid volumes are likely to build up in pipelines and limited time is available before production needs to be turned up or stopped to manage liquid surges on ramp-up or restart. This paper describes three events where large diameter two-phase (gas and condensate) and three phase (gas, condensate and aqueous phase) offshore pipelines were operated for extended time periods below their notional minimum turndown rate. For each event, an operating strategy was developed to manage liquid surges in receiving facilities. This strategy is described and analyzed through comparisons between field measurements and dynamic multiphase flow simulations.
Design Requirements for Offshore Wind Tower Foundations and Comparison with Oil and Gas Foundations
Authors: Rahim A. , Mirdamadi A.
Published: April 2017

The paper is in support of the effort by the Marine Renewable Energy (MRE) Committee of the ASCE Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute (COPRI) for setting up a guide document for offshore renewable energy foundations. The guide would use standard design codes for fixed foundations and mooring anchors in API, ISO and DNV. This paper focuses on specific aspects of design of offshore wind turbines that distinguish them from oil and gas installations. Emphasis is placed on the source of loading and the corresponding response of soil resistance.

The paper also how soil investigation for offshore windfarms differ from oil and gas and economic procedures for carrying out such investigation.

Foundation design of offshore structures requires identifying the critical loads. In the case of oil and gas foundations, the source of the load is the wind or wave or a combination of both. For offshore wind towers on fixed foundations, an additional source of dynamic load is the turbine blade rotation during operation. The frequencies of the rotor revolution and that of the blade passing the tower, need to be checked in relation to the resonance frequency of the foundation. The foundation dynamic response therefore depends largely on the stiffness and dampening characteristics.

Most offshore wind turbines tend to be located in relatively shallow water depth where difficult multi-layered soils tend to be dominate. This paper also discussion installation suction buckets of fixed foundation in difficult multi-layered soils.
Application of Raman Spectroscopy for Real Time Speciation Monitoring and Quantification
Authors: Kosacki Igor , Srinivasan Sridhar
Published: April 2017

The application of Raman spectroscopy for hydrocarbon speciation is described and recent advances in real time monitoring have been highlighted. The vibrational properties of hydrocarbon molecules were modeled using Density Function Theory and results were correlated with Raman spectra. The speciation of gas mixtures containing C1 – C4 hydrocarbons and concentration of vapor phase components were derived from Raman spectra analysis. Calibration curves showing the dependence of Raman line intensities as a function of hydrocarbon concentration have been presented to validate applicability of Raman spectroscopy for hydrocarbon detection. The minimum hydrocarbon concentration detectable by Raman spectroscopy has also been quantified. Results obtained indicate that Raman spectroscopy is a reliable tool for quantifying and monitoring industrial processes.
Finding Safe Ground for Deepwater Development; Integrated Probabilistic Geohazard Assessment iPGA for Pipeline Routing and Facilities
Authors: Moore Roger
Published: April 2017

The paper presents an integrated probabilistic geohazard assessment (iPGA) method developed in recent years by several leading offshore oil and gas companies for the evaluation of risk to subsea pipelines and facilities. The approach builds on the practice of establishing regional ground models for land-based engineering projects, in which the complete geological history of the site is used to predict the performance of the ground in response to engineering work and to identify the likely presence of geohazards. A considerable challenge in deepwater subsea environments is reconciling the scale and frequency of geohazard features and processes about which little is known and which at first sight can appear to be showstoppers to development. The iPGA method has many benefits over the more typical deterministic approach as it provides a systematic, iterative and rational approach to addressing uncertainties and quantifying the likelihood and impact of geohazards on subsea pipelines and facilities over the life of development. Presentation of outputs in the form of numerical values of geohazard event frequency, probability of a hit and damage outcomes, together with probability maps, is more readily understood and transferable to support engineering design and risk reduction. Experience from major projects around the world demonstrates the considerable value of the iPGA method in finding safe ground for the routing of pipelines and siting of facilities. The paper illustrates the various stages of the iPGA method which provides the industry with a new standard for the evaluation and mitigation of geohazard risk to deepwater development.
Stones Development: World Class Safety Performance in Singapore
Authors: Lohr Curtis , Penney Ian
Published: April 2017

The Stones Project is Shell Offshore Inc.'s ("Shell") play opener discovery in the emerging Lower Tertiary trend in the Gulf of Mexico ultra-deep water (~9,500 ft. water depth). The initial plan is a phased development, with a Floating Production Storage and Offloading facility (FPSO) and eight initial wells for Phase I, potentially followed by a Phase 2 development after field performance is confirmed. The Stones FPSO is the deepest floating production system in the world. This paper will address what has contributed to the world class safety performance on Stones during project execution and how the approach on Stones differed from other projects.

The following key enablers underpinned the Stones Project's safety performance: Safety as a Key Project DriverExcellent Working RelationshipsGenuine Care for PeopleCommitment from Project and Senior ManagementConsistent Approach to Safety

The Stones Project started strong and delivered outstanding safety performance in the Singapore construction yards. Over 13 MM man-hours (889 days of Goal Zero performance) were worked in conversion of the FPSO without a recordable safety incident. The Stones project achieved its' goal in Singapore of "Building Something Special with No Harm".
Vortex Induced Motions and Surge/Sway Oscillation Periods of the Independence Hub and Thunder Hawk Semi-Submersibles
Authors: Rijken Oriol
Published: April 2017

The Independence Hub semi-submersible and Thunder Hawk semi-submersible, both located in the Gulf of Mexico, have been operational since 2007 and 2009 respectively. The underwater hull geometry is basically the same for both vessels. Both Independence Hub and Thunder Hawk are moored by twelve polyester mooring lines. Independence Hub supports many more flowlines than Thunder Hawk. Each semi-submersible is equipped with a measuring system which records, amongst other data, the semi-submersible's position, and the current speed and direction. The measurements indicate that Vortex Induced Motion (VIM) behavior occurs, and VIM behavior occurs under increased current velocities. However, observed VIM amplitudes are much smaller than what is observed under typical model test conditions and there is a significant variation in oscillation period. Yet and evaluation of oscillation periods between Independence Hub, Thunder Hawk and model tests reveals very similar characteristics when normalizing the periods by the natural period in surge/sway. The determination of the surge/sway natural period for field conditions is not as straightforward; different natural period in surge/sway have been observed for the same vessel under different historical conditions. The natural period in surge/sway for those field conditions was identified through an iterative procedure. The important aspect of the procedure is that at lock-in 1) the variation in natural period in surge/sway is minimal, 2) that the motions are nearly sinusoidal, and 3) the motion amplitudes are the largest observed. The Independence Hub and Thunder Hawk field observations indicate that the frequency (response period) behavior of a semi-submersible in the field is rather well duplicated by the traditional model test setup, though significant differences exist regarding the magnitude of response. The field measurements contain information for reduced velocities up to approximately eleven; hence lock-in and post lock-in conditions are included.
SCR Life Extension through Managed Shape Change
Authors: Santala M. J. , Constantinides Y. , Koska R. , Krapf C. , Walters D. S.
Published: April 2017

Steel catenary risers (SCRs) are a cost effective option for deepwater developments. Throughout industry hundreds of SCRs have been deployed and have proven to be highly reliable. Nevertheless, as the inventory of SCRs across industry ages and as operators seek to extend the lives of deepwater platforms beyond their originally intended service life, strategies are needed to ensure that SCRs can continue to operate reliably. Since touchdown point fatigue damage is a strong factor determining the service life of an SCR, strategies to mitigate fatigue damage in this region may be required for service life extension. One such strategy commonly adopted is platform relocation in order to shift the SCR touch down point throughout the life of the field and hence spreading the fatigue damage along the riser touch down region; however, this typically needs to be planned for in the original concept development. In this paper, two additional strategies based on modifying the shape of an existing SCR are presented. These strategies reduce the fatigue damage rate in the original touchdown point (TDP) region by managing the shape of an existing SCR either through adding buoyancy or by changing the length of the riser such that the original segment of riser pipe in the TDP region is moved to a low stress region. The proposed techniques also accommodate riser response during extreme environmental events. The techniques have been examined based on case studies of a production SCR and an export SCR. Trade-offs in placement of buoyancy and the impact that shape change has on meeting riser strength requirements are presented. It is shown that the potential exists to roughly double the computed fatigue life in the touchdown region.