Subsea flowlines transport crude oil and gas from subsea wells into reservoirs on land. Flowlines also transport crude oil and gas from off-shore process facilities and loading buoys to reservoirs on shore. Subsea flowline installation and connection of flow lines is a critical part of subsea field development.
Installation
Subsea flowline installation begins with the use of successful tie-in solutions and systems and connection tools, which are needed for installation of flowlines in deep, high pressure, and large diameter subsea applications. Custom configuration of products and interfaces are needed to develop and install flowlines in accordance with particular fields. Subsea field developments vary from company to company. Custom products help increase flexibility of flowlines and the installation process.
Ti-In Solutions
Both vertical and horizontal tie-in systems can be used along with connection tools for the tie-in of subsea flowline installation. Horizontal tie-in systems can be used for first end and second end tie-ins for both types of flowlines. While vertical tie-in systems can be used for flexible flowlines, rigid flowlines, and flowline risers.
The horizontal tie-in provides horizontal landing and connections for first and second end flowlines, umbilicals and jumper spools. These are often made up of a clamp connector that is operated by a tie-in tool via integrated hydraulic connectors, which functions through an ROV (Remote Operated Vehicle). They may also be operated by a tie-in tool via integrated non-hydraulic connectors with assistance from a CAT (Connector Actuation Tool) or ROV. By using the horizontal tie-in connection the flowline is left in a straight line, which provides easy protection against possible fishermen overtrawling. Systems include:
FLYCON
ROVCON
STABCON
The vertical tie-in provides vertical landing and connections for first and second end flexible flowlines. The vertical tie-in system has no interference with the sea floor during installation and connection. They do not require flowline pull-in capability either. Connection of these tie-ins for subsea flowline installation is done via the ROV or CAT systems. Systems include:
MAX
Torus Tie-In System
VECON Tie-In System
Engineering Expertise
Subsea flowline installation is carried out by professional ocean engineers and subsea technology firms. Additional information about installation as well as project estimations can be found by contacting local subsea engineering and manufacturing firms.
