bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Submarine Optical Networks for Oil & Gas Operations
Authors: Fukuyama Y. , Harima J. , Hishiki K. , Trigo C. C. O. , Bordalo S. N. , Morooka C. K. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
A set of modular network node elements with underwater coupling connectors was developed and tested in a laboratory water tank for use in submarine installations to provide integrated data acquisition, communication and control for offshore oil and gas production facilities, covering large areas of petroleum fields. The present work demonstrates the feasibility, usefulness and flexibility of this system. A simulation of a submarine network was set up with the main components submerged in the laboratory water tank connecting various nodes through optical cables and through the Internet in order to represent a scenario with FPSOs, land offices and submarine instrumentation. Physical connection, disconnection and reconnection operations were simulated in underwater conditions. The simulation of the operations demonstrated the reliability and practicality of wetmate connectors, which means faster and safer field operations. Exchanging signals between various nodes showed the potential for better integration and real time responses for technical management of offshore facilities. Tests with underwater instrumentation proved the usefulness of the system to monitor and control offshore wells and submarine facilities remotely. This also denotes the potential for permanent marine seismic grids applied to petroleum reservoirs. The current world of interconnected digital systems may push the offshore oil industry and marine resources exploitation enterprises into more efficient operations, higher revenue-cost ratios, increased safety and lightener environmental impacts. Submarine optical networks can be applied to advance offshore systems into the next generation of real time remote monitoring, decision making and action, as well as continuous and reliable intercommunication between ocean and land units, with less people exposed to dangerous conditions.
Computational Modelling of Wettability in Calcite-Oil-Water Systems
Authors: dos Santos Elias Siva , Vasconcelos Anaís Couto , Batista João Pedro Ribeiro , Melo Wesley Gomes Lima , Quintella Cristina Maria , De Carvalho Edgard Bacic , Ramos-de-Souza Elias 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The injection of low-salinity water in oil reservoirs to improve the recovery of oil is effective in sandstones but its application in carbonates is still a matter of debate. To address the wettability of rock-brine-oil systems and the recovery of oil in a porous medium, a new integrated methodology comprising Molecular Dynamics (MD), Electrohydrodynamics (EHD) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) is developed and applied to a thin brine film on a carbonate rock that is bounded by an oil phase. Microscopic classical MD allows following the trajectories of the atoms and estimating the interaction energies and key parameters of the system. The mesoscopic EDH theory is applied to model a nanometric fluid layer through hydrodynamic equations and allows to obtain linear stability diagrams and to follow the nonlinear evolution of the system. The macroscopic CFD approach allows computing the flow of a biphasic fluid in a porous medium model designed from the images of scanning electron microscopy. The modelling allows us to improve the understanding of the physicochemical mechanisms behind the wettability of carbonate rocks and the flow of brine and oil phases. The rock wettability depends on several factors such as the balance between van der Waals, electrostatic and hydration forces. At reservoir conditions, the oil-water surface bears negative electric charges resulting from the oil polar groups located in the oil-brine interface, while the net concentration of electric charges at the rock-brine surface is positive due to the adsorption of positively charged ionic species. The van der Waals disjoining pressure is negative and that arising from hydration interactions is positive. In turn, the electrostatic disjoining pressure may be negative or positive. The rock surface tends to be more water-wet if it bears lower positive surface charge concentrations and more oil-wet otherwise. The approach of the two film surfaces is also regulated by the repulsive interactions originating from the hydration disjoining pressure. Recovery factors for more water-wet and more oil-wet systems are estimated.
Amplitude Friendly Imaging for Elastic Inversion: A Brazilian Offshore Case Study
Authors: Tavakoli B. , Whitehead S. , Trinh P. T. , Duquet B. , Rhodde S. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The Lapa field is situated in block BM-S-09 of the Santos Basin, with production having started some years ago. Here the pre-salt reservoir rocks are formed by the Aptian microbial carbonates of Itapema and Barra Velha Formations. More precisely, the target lays in a marginal high in a mantle-decoupled domain under extension constraint with transfer zone and local inversion. The hydrocarbon bearing reservoirs are oil-bearing showing a 4-way dip closure with one main porous sequence and a tight zone underneath. With the northeast part of the field already well developed, the context of a re-processing, imaging and inversion program is that of a planned increase in activity in the southwest part of the field. The southwest part of the field is complicated by rapidly changing thickness of overburden salt, that can have an impact on seismic products. The objective of the study is to get a seismic image more suitable for the interpretation of this structurally complex field, with reliable amplitude information for lithology and porosity characterization of Lapa reservoirs.
Amplitudes on seismic images can reveal important information regarding Petro-Elastic (PE) properties of geological formations. "Amplitude preservation" during seismic data processing and imaging is key for many exploration and development projects. Though in data processing steps (pre-migration) this is assured by direct evaluation of input and output data amplitudes, in the imaging process, amplitude preservation is a more effortful task. This is mainly due to the complications concerning imaging algorithms (e.g. the approximations for wave propagation regime) and geological complexity of the subsurface. For example, in complex media, such as deep salt structures, imaging algorithms based on asymptotic approximation of wave propagation (e.g. Kirchhoff and Beam migration) may not deliver very accurate images (from structural and amplitude perspectives). Therefore, for subsurface imaging of complex zones, industry tends toward more accurate algorithms such as Reverse Time Migration (RTM) and Least Squares (LS) imaging. Moreover, for elastic inversion based on or AVO/AVA principles (Amplitude Variation with respect to Offset/Angle) one needs to create offset/angle gathers in an amplitude friendly manner. In this study, we present our workflow to produce an amplitude friendly image with a high SNR (signal to noise ratio) suitable for elastic inversion.
Integrated Operations System: Implementation of a Truly Integrated Digital Oil Field and Development of Digital Twin
Authors: Balachandran P. Amal , Padmanabhan K. Vipin Krishna 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The global oil and gas companies are aggressively adopting new digital technologies for process improvement, enhancing safety, reducing asset down time, and reducing overall cost of production to stay competitive. The Digital Oil Field (DOF) is the idea of digitalizing the oil field operations to improve production performance and collaboration both within and outside the organization. This paper discusses the giant leap taken by ONGC towards digitalization of one of its largest deep-water oil and gas field development – the KG-DWN-98/2. Integrated Operations System (IOPS) presently being implemented in ONGC, comprises of data collection and analytics modules, automation tools and collaboration enablers integrated together for streamlined decision-making, easily accessible expertise and safe collaborative co-location of essential personnel. Paper discusses the existing challenges being faced by ONGC in production optimization, asset maintenance and collaboration. IOPS system is proposed as a solution to overcome these challenges. With the help of IOPS, the concept of "Digital-Twin" is introduced in ONGC. The method of developing a digital twin for the entire field from reservoir to separator using existing industry proven software with limited customization are discussed in detail. The methodology adopted for acquiring field data, analysis of the acquired data and utilizing the business intelligence acquired for optimizing production and ultimately leading to business transformation is discussed. The use of advanced digital collaboration environments to effectively utilize the technical expertise located at various geographical locations to solve complex technical issues and provide quick resolution to business problems are discussed in detail. The usage of Big data for predictive analytics to move the decision making from a post event reactive approach to proactive responsive approach is briefly discussed. The functioning of different components of the IOPS system, the interconnection between various analytics modules, the flow of data between modules to form a digital twin of the field and the expected benefits of the system are discussed in detail. The system is expected to improve production uplift by 2 to 3% and reduce the overall OPEX cost by 10 to 20%. The system is expected to increase the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) and Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) of the critical assets by enabling Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM).
On-The-Fly Mixing Skid Mounted Technology Allows Cost-Effective Stimulation Jobs on Rigs with Limited Deck Space in Brazil Offshore
Authors: Carrara M. , Colbert F. , Gachet R. , Garcia F. , Pedrosa H. , Junior A. , Rezende D. , deSouza J. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
While pre salt carbonate reservoirs are the main source of hydrocarbon production in Brazil (Jardim et. Al 2020), offshore mature fields located on post salt and sandstone reservoirs are still relevant. Cost effective solutions and treatment optimization are required to maximize return on investment. This paper introduces a new method to perform these jobs economically and efficiently. An overview of the operations performed on Brazilian mature fields and contingency operations for pre-salt carbonate wells including methods, strategies and benefits are reviewed.
A compacted and versatile on-the-fly stimulation plant is deployed to perform acid stimulation jobs for sandstone and carbonate offshore formations. The use of this system provides the flexibility to mix several types of acidizing fluids in reduced areas, for both carbonates and sandstones, providing similar capabilities than a costly stimulation vessel, or an offshore rig with limited deck area. Concentrations of the stimulation chemicals are modified in real time, using various systems without stopping the pumping operation.
This compact on-the-fly stimulation method shows many benefits, saving rig time, allowing the pumping of several chemicals, and making feasible operations that were possible only with stimulation vessel due to limited deck space of the rig. In some scenarios, large acid volumes are pumped without the need of additional acid tanks with pre-mixed acid solutions. Higher pumping rates are attained, leading to large zonal coverage treatments and rig time savings. This method has been used very successfully in Brazil since 2018 using several acidizing systems, including HCl, Mud Acid, polymeric diversion system and other acid-based technologies. Over eleven wells were treated using this on-the-fly stimulation method. Such operations take a maximum of 15 days from mobilization until demobilization. Assembly skid mounted vessels can take double or triple of the time and can increase the costs three times, which can make some projects unfeasible. This solution is switchable for low-cost projects on mature wells and workovers.
The novelty is the introduction of a compact on-the-fly stimulation plant that provides with more efficient and cost-effective acid stimulation and pumping treatment allowing real-time acid concentration modification and the capability to use various acidizing technologies.
Barrier Management: Managing Operational Residual Risk from Offshore Drilling Units
Authors: Reis A. G. , Neves R. A. , Costa M. M. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Constellation, an oil development company operating drill ships and semisubmersible platforms in water depths of up to 12,000 feet, is innovating with dynamic real-time monitoring of operational safety barriers of rigs. The goal is to increase visualization and predictability of risks in drilling platforms. This technology is designed to enhance the safety of operations, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide greater visibility to the primary risk study of drilling platforms.
The technology facilitates continuous monitoring of the operational safety barriers of the rigs and provides real-time alerts if anomalies or failures are detected. Barrier monitoring integrates the risk study contained in the Heath Safety and Environmental Safety Case (HSE Safety Case) into daily operations, offering visualization of the integrity of safeguard barriers. This ensures assertiveness in decision-making to maintain safe operational continuity. Compared to the traditional method, where the risk study was a static snapshot at the moment the document was prepared, this innovative approach promotes a more integrated view.
Currently, in the HSE Safety Case of each maritime unit, there are 11 risk analyses of the Layer of Protection Analysis (LOPA) - Bow Tie type. This semi-quantitative risk assessment tool has its barriers monitored in real time. The utilization of this technology has resulted in improved safety measures and reduced risk exposure. Additionally, it has proven to save both time and money by allowing early identification of problems and facilitating preventive maintenance.
This system has potential for expanded application across various sectors, such as the petrochemical and mining industry. The real-time monitoring technology developed by Constellation is a game-changer, demonstrating the benefits of integrating technology with safety management. It offers a model that could be adopted widely to enhance operational safety and efficiency.
Evaluation of the Potential Impact of Ground Robots on FPSO Operations
Authors: da Silva G. L. L. , Cordeiro M. M. , Galassi M. , Coelho F. M. , Hwang E. , Silva E. C. J. , Bassoli E. C. C. , Porto B. C. , Henriques C. C. D. 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe objective of this paper is to present Petrobras’ learnings when evaluating the routine of a FPSO (Floating Production, Storage and Offloading) asset crew to identify scenarios for the application of robotics in day-to-day offshore activities. The method used for the studies presented in this paper consists of surveying archived data recordings in objective metric criteria, to evaluate the leverage of robotic assistance.A larger perspective analysis to one pre-salt typical FPSO reveals three main groups of key activities in terms of people on board: operator inspection/surveillance rounds, work at height, especially when scaffolding is required, and painting campaigns (surface preparation and application of the coating). Each of these three activity groups (operator round, work at height, painting) opened a set of robotics initiatives within Petrobras. For this paper, we delved into the analysis of recurrent operational tasks performed during a year of operations for five pre-salt FPSOs and which could be impacted and benefited by the application of ground robots.In order to illustrate the potential of the applications presented here in terms of values, the first attempt of analysis was carried out through the SAP™ input logs for one of these five FPSOs. The logs have shown checklists performed by the operators over a year, comprising 6,663 pieces of equipment, 16,148 checklist items, 497 different types of tasks, and 18,305 equivalent man-hours/year. This is equivalent to 5 seats on board, which can increase to 10 to 15 people, depending on the work shift adopted. It is worth mentioning that this number refers to one FPSO only and was just a preliminary analysis, from which the inspiration for more detailed studies was extracted, since the Company currently manages a fleet of 42 FPSOs. These numbers reveal a glimpse of the addressable market size of ground robots for routine offshore verification tasks.However, while consistency of inspection and uninterrupted availability are a premium associated with the use of robots, a qualitative analysis with continuous updates must be performed to confirm the feasibility of robotization given current and future capabilities of the robot. An initial analysis suggests that 30% to 50% of the theoretical equivalent hours per year could be freed up.
Data-Driven Agility: A Case Study on Practical Use of Agile Concepts in Engineering
Authors: Teixeira Allan L. , Beuren Jair , Hoepfner Lucas Almeida , Maracaja Mateus Tabach , Pereira Nathalia , Sampaio Pedro 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
In 2020, Petrobras established the EF100 Program with a mission to increase operational efficiency while preserving value. As part of this program, BIP Consulting conducted a diagnostic in 2021 using Petrobras’ operational data. The diagnostic revealed that Compression and Gas Treatment systems accounted for approximately 20% of the inefficiencies in the company’s offshore production process at that time. These inefficiencies posed significant challenges to operational efficiency and profitability, highlighting the importance of the EF100 Program’s focus.
This case study presents a novel approach to addressing these inefficiencies, combining the principles of agile methodology with data-driven decision-making techniques in an engineering project, called "Tratamento e Compressão de Gás" (TCG project), and demonstrated the effectiveness of this combination in project management, whilst enabling the project team to quickly assess and respond to changing circumstances, thereby optimizing the outcomes.
A key element of this project’s success was the approach to culture and change management. Guided by the widely recognized principle that ‘Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast’, the project team navigated Petrobras’s strong culture by involving executive, tactical and operational team members in the process, fostering a sense of co-creation and ownership.
As a result, the project achieved a significant reduction in system inefficiencies. Specifically, for the systems within the scope of this project, in the business unit used as a pilot for the project within a period of 16 months, the Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) increased by approximately 25%, and the Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) decreased by approximately 11%. These results, combined with the successful cultural navigation and co-creation approach, demonstrate the potential of this methodology for improving operational efficiency in the oil and gas industry.
Riser Inspection Via Subsea Drone: Addressing the Technological Challenges to Unlock Sustainable IMR Campaigns
Authors: Nevoso C. , Cavallini F. , Massari G. , Urio M. , Watanabe T. , Masiero M. , Junior J. , Juliano D. Russo , Britto A. , Nardy L. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
The incumbent need of sustainable and cost-effective solutions for subsea inspections of live assets installed on the seabed along with the increasing complexity of next generation subsea processing (e.g., boosting, separation, water treatment, desulfation), are some of the drivers pushing the development of subsea robotics solutions. Several technological challenges have to be faced to achieve this goal, with one of the most demanding requirements being the capability to switch autonomously from a flowline horizontal inspection to a vertical riser. In general, the navigation capabilities must be able to seamlessly move from a 2D target to a 3D body with no human intervention in the loop. Many subsea drones currently being launched to the market are able to automatically track a pipeline, a flowline or a cable/umbilical (either exposed or partially buried), but a true challenge is represented by the vertical transition, i.e. when these assets turn into risers to connect the seafloor with the topside facilities. The required capability to manage this transition in pipeline configuration applies to simple catenaries as well as to lazy-wave catenary patterns. A subsea drone with comprehensive capabilities should then be able to track the riser throughout the water column following pre-set inspection shapes namely a one-side (180° domain) or a two-sides (360° domain) GVI or CVI mission. Data coming from stereo-cameras and laser scanners are digitalized, merged and processed by the navigation algorithms supported by AI based computing tools in order to ensure the pre-determined inspection pattern is complied with. Transition from a DVL based tracking to a pure video-referenced navigation has been one of the most demanding features to be dealt with. Ultimately, the drone should be able to hold the position automatically when the algorithms indicate the detection of anomalies like corrosion, torn parts, scratching and the like thus increasing the resolution of data acquisition relevant to the identified anomaly. High-resolution image sets are taken during the inspection and exported into a Survey Report for Client's record and use within its own Life-of-Field master plan. The riser tracking features and, in particular, the management of the transition from the seabed flowline to the riser linking the production system to topside is extremely challenging since it implies a smooth change in how the subsea drone navigation system guides the vehicle itself. This paper presents how information coming from different sources is managed and processed by the subsea drone AI to safely guide it while performing an autonomous subsea riser inspection. Results obtained from a deepwater pilot project offshore Brazil by Saipem with its FlatFish, developed in a JIP with Shell Brasil, PETROBRAS following ANP Levy regulations, in partnership with SENAI CIMATEC, are presented too.