Pigging, manifold valve block and fluid flow control

Abstract

A rigid valve block body, a method of manufacturing the same, a method of pigging a valve block and / or a branch, and a method for determining a direction of flow of a fluid are disclosed. The valve block body includes a first fluid inlet and a further fluid inlet at opposite sides of the rigid valve block body. The first fluid outlet of the valve block body and the further fluid outlet of the valve block body are disposed in a spaced apart relationship. The first V-shaped fluid communication channel includes two channel portions, each channel portion extending within the valve block body from a first common root region adjacent the first fluid inlet. The further V-shaped fluid communication channel includes two further channel portions, each further channel portion extending away from a further common root region adjacent the further fluid port within the valve block body. An end region of each channel portion of the first V-shaped fluid communication channel converges with an end region of a respective channel portion of the further V-shaped fluid communication channel adjacent a respective fluid outlet. The inlet connection fluid communication passage extends between the first common root region and the further common root region and facilitates providing a pig pathway through the valve block body.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve block body, a subsea structure such as a manifold, a method for determining the direction of fluid flow at such a subsea structure, and a method for pigging a well branch. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a rigid valve block body in which internal holes are formed to provide corresponding fluid communication channels and channel portions. The body includes two V-shaped fluid communication channels and a through passage between opposite inlets, the through passage helping to facilitate pigging operations of the valve block and one or more branch lines connected to the valve block.

[0002] Various subsea structures are known in which a fluid inlet is connected to a pipe (which may be rigid or flexible) to receive a fluid, and in which the inflowing fluid from such a fluid inlet needs to be directed to one or more of a plurality of possible fluid outlets in a specific direction depending on the purpose. An example of a subsea structure is a subsea manifold. Therefore, a subsea manifold is an example of a subsea structure. A subsea manifold can be used to connect flow lines and subsea Christmas trees as part of a subsea layout to help optimize and reduce the number of risers required to provide a fluid flow path for a surface platform. The surface platform may be a floating platform or a fixed platform. In general, there are several types of manifolds known. A specific example is a manifold required for a cluster or drilling center subsea layout. Conventionally, such a manifold will have dual flow lines and headers, and will have the ability to allow pigging operations to be performed through the system.

[0003] Manifolds have historically been designed and manufactured to custom requirements for specific applications. This requires a significant amount of repetitive engineering work and results in long lead times due to the need to source components from multiple different sub-suppliers. On many projects, the headers are sized to meet the internal bore diameter requirements of the pipeline and the headers are often pigged to maintain the bores in a satisfactory and fully functional condition. The size and bore diameter of such headers are often dictated by the project piping requirements and can be routinely determined by the selected piping design. As a result, it is difficult to pre-design the headers before a project begins, leaving suppliers with only their standard configurations to recommend to the end user.

[0004] It has been suggested that the manifolds may be incorporated into the block of material. While in practice this offers some advantages, it can add significant cost and weight to the manifold. This is particularly true if the minimum bend requirements imposed by any pigging requirements are considered. Consideration must also be given to any specific manifold valve selection criteria including valve size, pressure rating, application design specifications and sub-supplier design characteristics which will dictate the design and final construction of such a manifold. The need to meet these requirements can therefore significantly increase the engineering activity for any particular project.

[0005] Another problem associated with certain conventional manifold designs and structures is that with certain designs, a large number of welds are required to connect the various inlets and outlets to any header together. This can be a time consuming and expensive process, and the welds can lead to failure points in use.

[0006] Some conventional manifolds require numerous outlets and lack versatility in selectively connecting multiple inputs to these possible outlets.

[0007] Certain conventional manifold structures and valve blocks used in such structures suffer from the problem that they can be physically very heavy items, which makes them difficult to maneuver into a desired position and then lower into a subsea location.

[0008] Some manifold valve block bodies, pipes and pipelines connected to the valve block bodies, and Christmas trees and jumper pipes connected to the manifolds suffer from the problem that over time, the fluid flow path can become completely or partially blocked by the accumulation of undesirable substances. For example, hydrates can be formed under low temperature and high pressure conditions, which is often conventional in the environment of submarine oil transmission lines. Removal of hydrates or other accumulated materials is a continuous problem. A variety of methods are known in the art to involve cleaning and unblocking partially or completely blocked fluid communication channels. The use of cleaning pigs is a frequently used technology. In the pigging operation mode, the pig is a device usually made of an elastomeric material or other material such as metal with high strain capacity, which passes through the fluid communication channel. It is known that the pig often has a cylindrical or spherical shape, or several discs connected by a metal or plastic shaft can be used. Cleaning is performed in the pigging operation mode, whereby pressure is applied to one side of the pig by means of gas or liquid to push the pig along the desired route in the valve block body or other rigid or flexible pipelines.

[0009] It is known that, according to certain designs, the route followed by the pig in the pigging operation mode may be completely or partially uncontrolled. That is, the pig may sometimes be guided along an undesirable route. The pig may be stuck at a specific position, causing a blockage that is difficult to remove and sometimes impossible to remove. For some types of pipelines or pipeline engineering or manifold blocks, a pig excluder (such as a rod) in the form of a blocking structure may be welded in place to prevent the pig from accidentally passing down through an undesirable passage. However, in a processed block manifold in which a single valve block is formed by drilling holes in a solid block, such a blocking element is difficult / impossible to install, because the manifold valve block structure is generally formed by a process in which a fluid flow channel is perforated (i.e., processed) or drilled through a solid body.

[0010] Some valve block bodies are always in use and these are difficult to clean. This means that the entire manifold valve block body must be replaced to make a piggable valve block body. Replacing such components is costly and difficult to achieve.

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to at least partially alleviate one or more of the above problems.

[0012] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a piggable manifold valve block.

[0013] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method for pigging a manifold valve block and optionally branch lines and Christmas trees connected to the valve block.

[0014] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide an apparatus and / or method whereby a cleaner used to clean through one or more passages in a manifold valve block and pipeline and connecting equipment such as a subsea Christmas tree is prevented from accidentally traveling down an undesired passage or becoming stuck at a passage junction.

[0015] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide an insert positionable at a root region in a manifold valve block, the insert including one or more pig excluder elements that facilitate desired fluid flow between passages but prevent pigs used to clean holes in the manifold valve block from traveling completely or at least partially along undesired fluid communication channels or channel portions.

[0016] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a manifold valve block and a method for manufacturing a manifold valve block in which fluid communication channels are formed as holes through the material of the valve block body and these holes are made so as to avoid any need for additional elements (such as pig inserts) for preventing undesired reinforcement of pigs during the pigging process of the manifold valve block.

[0017] Certain embodiments of the present invention are directed to providing a compact and modular manifold solution using modular block branching assemblies that can be used to control and / or regulate and / or distribute the flow of fluids to a subsea tree via one or more dedicated headers and flow lines and / or the flow of fluids from a subsea tree to a host facility.

[0018] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to enable pigging of branch lines connected to a manifold block, and optionally of Christmas trees connected to those branch lines.

[0019] It is an object of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method of providing a piggable manifold valve block including the required fluid communication channels or channel portions and pig rejection functionality.

[0020] Certain embodiments of the present invention are directed to a valve block body in the form of a rigid body, the valve block body comprising a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet and an internal fluid communication passage.

[0021] It is an aim of certain embodiments of the present invention to provide a method for determining the direction of fluid flow at a subsea structure.

[0022] Certain embodiments of the present invention are directed to a subsea structure for selectively connecting a plurality of inlet fluid flow lines to at least one outlet fluid flow line.

[0023] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rigid valve block body for determining a direction of fluid flow at a subsea structure, the rigid valve block body comprising:

[0024] a first fluid inlet and a further fluid inlet, the first fluid inlet and the further fluid inlet being located at opposite end regions of the rigid valve block body;

[0025] a first fluid outlet of the valve block body and a further fluid outlet of the valve block body, the first fluid outlet and the further fluid outlet being disposed in spaced relationship;

[0026] a first V-shaped fluid communication passage, the first V-shaped fluid communication passage comprising two passage portions, each passage portion extending from a first common root region adjacent the first fluid inlet within the valve block body;

[0027] an additional V-shaped fluid communication channel, the additional V-shaped fluid communication channel comprising two additional channel portions, each additional channel portion extending within the valve block body away from an additional common root region adjacent to an additional fluid port, wherein an end region of each channel portion of the first V-shaped fluid communication channel merges with an end region of a corresponding channel portion of the additional V-shaped fluid communication channel adjacent to a corresponding fluid outlet of the valve block body; and

[0028] An inlet connection fluid communication channel extends between the first common root region and the further common root region.

[0029] Suitably, the internal aperture of each channel portion is smaller than the corresponding internal aperture of the inlet connection fluid communication channel.

[0030] Suitably, the internal aperture of each channel portion is less than 70% of the corresponding internal aperture of the inlet connection fluid communication channel, and optionally less than 50% of the corresponding internal aperture.

[0031] Suitably, the valve block body further comprises at least one insert element, each of the insert elements being located at a respective common root region, the at least one insert element comprising a sleeve body having an open head at each respective sleeve body end and at least one through hole in a side wall of the sleeve body.

[0032] Suitably, the at least one through hole comprises a first plurality of through holes and a further plurality of through holes, the further plurality of through holes being provided on diametrically opposed regions of the sleeve body.

[0033] Suitably, each through-hole of each plurality of through-holes comprises an elongate groove.

[0034] Suitably, each elongate groove is configured such that when viewed from a side at the same angle as the offset angle between each channel portion and the inlet connection fluid communication channel, the contour edge region of each groove falls on an imaginary circle.

[0035] Suitably, each through-hole in each plurality of through-holes comprises a circular aperture.

[0036] Suitably, each plurality of through holes comprises one, two or three small diameter holes disposed between two spaced apart large diameter holes aligned along a common primary alignment axis, and two further larger diameter holes each aligned at a centre point associated with the small diameter hole and perpendicular to and on respective opposite sides of the common primary alignment axis.

[0037] Suitably, each plurality of through holes comprises at least one further small diameter hole pair, each of the further small diameter hole pairs being aligned on a respective side of a respective further large diameter hole along a secondary alignment axis, the secondary alignment axis being spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the primary alignment axis.

[0038] Suitably, each small diameter hole is a circular hole having a diameter of between about 50mm and 90mm, and each large diameter hole is a circular hole having a diameter of between about 100mm and 200mm, and optionally the diameter of each large hole is less than 25% of the circumference of the sleeve body.

[0039] Suitably, a respective selector valve chamber in the fluid flow path in each channel portion is for a respective flow selector valve, and / or a respective isolation valve chamber in the inlet connection fluid communication channel is for a respective pig path isolation valve.

[0040] Suitably, the valve block body further comprises an additional fluid outlet located in a base region of the valve block body.

[0041] Suitably, the valve block body comprises at least one arm region each extending from one side of the valve block body, and the arm region comprises an inlet channel portion extending through the arm region from an opening aperture on the respective side.

[0042] Suitably, the valve block body further comprises a respective isolation valve chamber in the fluid flow path in each inlet channel portion in each arm region for a respective well isolation valve.

[0043] Suitably, the valve block body further comprises a first intervention port and a further intervention port each extending from a respective opening orifice in the outer surface of the valve block body via an intervention valve chamber to a respective inlet channel portion of the respective arm region for a respective intervention valve.

[0044] Suitably, the valve block body comprises at least one opening aperture on each respective side of the valve block body, each opening aperture comprising a respective fluid inlet of the valve block body, and a plurality of fixing elements on one side around the opening aperture for fixing to a respective inlet connection block comprising an inlet channel portion.

[0045] Suitably, the valve block body further comprises a respective isolation valve chamber in the fluid flow path in each inlet channel portion in each inlet connection block for a respective well isolation valve.

[0046] Suitably, the end regions of each channel portion intersect at an exit chamber region in the valve block body and open into corresponding end regions of the other channel portions, and each exit chamber region is adjacent a respective fluid outlet.

[0047] Suitably, the valve block body comprises two fluid inlets and two fluid outlets.

[0048] Suitably, the valve block body is a forged metal body and optionally any bend in each flow path through the body is inclined by more than 120° and less than 170° relative to the incoming fluid flow path axis.

[0049] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a subsea structure for connecting a plurality of inlet fluid flow lines to at least one outlet fluid flow line, comprising:

[0050] A valve block body as defined in the first aspect of the present invention;

[0051] a plurality of flow selector valves, each flow selector valve being at least partially located in a corresponding selector valve chamber of the valve block body;

[0052] a plurality of well isolation valves, each well isolation valve being at least partially located in a respective isolation chamber of the valve block body; and

[0053] A pig path isolation valve is located at least partially in a corresponding pig path isolation chamber.

[0054] Suitably, the subsea structure further comprises a plurality of inlet connection blocks fixed above respective fluid inlets of the valve block body, each inlet connection block comprising a respective isolation valve chamber and an isolation valve at least partially located in the isolation valve chamber.

[0055] Suitably, the subsea structure is a subsea manifold.

[0056] Suitably, the subsea structure comprises a plurality of manifolds located externally of the valve block body and in selective fluid communication with the first fluid outlet and the further fluid outlet.

[0057] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for determining a direction of fluid flow at a subsea structure, the method comprising the following steps:

[0058] providing an incoming fluid flow to at least one fluid inlet of a plurality of fluid inlets of the valve block body; and

[0059] selecting a state of a corresponding isolation valve in a flow path of each of two corresponding channel portions of at least one V-shaped fluid communication channel of at least two V-shaped fluid communication channels in the valve block body; and

[0060] selecting a closed state of the pig path isolation valve to prevent fluid flow along the inlet connection fluid communication passage between the first fluid inlet and the further fluid inlet of the valve block body; thereby

[0061] The incoming fluid flow is directed from the at least one fluid inlet of the valve block body to a selected one of the fluid outlets.

[0062] Suitably, the method comprises providing an incoming fluid flow simultaneously at a plurality of fluid inlets; and via a selected state of the isolation valve in the V-shaped fluid communication passage, and with the pig path isolation valve in a closed state, directing the incoming flow along a plurality of passage portions to a common outlet, thereby mixing fluids from a plurality of sources, or directing the incoming flow to separate fluid outlets, thereby keeping fluids from a plurality of sources separated as the fluids flow through the valve block body.

[0063] Preferably, the method further comprises providing fluid to a plurality of headers external to the valve block body by directing the fluid from a flow line to the header via at least one valve block body.

[0064] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing a rigid valve block body, the method comprising the following steps:

[0065] Provide valve block body blank;

[0066] providing a first lumen through the blank from a first fluid inlet at a first end of the blank to a further fluid inlet at a further end of the blank;

[0067] providing a second lumen and a third lumen as respective passage portions from a first fluid outlet on the first blank side to respective ones of a first common root region and an additional common root region in fluid communication with the first lumen; and

[0068] A fourth lumen and a fifth lumen are provided as respective passage portions from a further fluid outlet on a further blank side to a respective one of the first common root region and the further common root region.

[0069] Suitably, the method comprises providing the first lumen as an inlet connection fluid communication channel having an inner bore diameter greater than the corresponding inner bore diameter of each channel portion, and optionally providing the first lumen as a straight through hole in the blank or as a through hole curved with a curvature radius greater than 2m.

[0070] Suitably, the method comprises providing at least one insert element at a respective common root region, the at least one insert element comprising a casing body associated with the longitudinal casing passage;

[0071] aligning a respective open tip at each respective cannula body end with the major axis of the first lumen; and

[0072] At least one through hole in the side wall of the sleeve body is aligned with a flow axis associated with a corresponding channel portion.

[0073] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a method for cleaning a manifold valve block body is provided, the method comprising:

[0074] providing a pig device at a first fluid inlet of a first fluid inlet and a further fluid inlet disposed at opposite end regions of the valve block body, the first fluid inlet and the further fluid inlet comprising a first V-shaped fluid communication channel and a further V-shaped fluid communication shaped channel, the first V-shaped fluid communication channel comprising two channel portions each extending from a first common root region adjacent to the first fluid inlet in the valve block body, the further V-shaped fluid communication shaped channel comprising two further channel portions each extending away from a further common root region adjacent to the further fluid inlet in the valve block body;

[0075] The pig device is advanced from the first fluid inlet to the remaining fluid inlets via an inlet connecting fluid communication channel extending between the first common root region and the further common root region.

[0076] Suitably, the method further comprises preventing the pig device from deviating from a path aligned with the inlet connection fluid communication passage.

[0077] Suitably, the method further comprises preventing deflection of the pig device by providing the passage portion as a hole in the valve block body, the passage portion having an inner bore diameter smaller than the inner bore diameter of the inlet connection fluid communication passage.

[0078] Suitably, the method further comprises preventing deflection of the pig device via at least a pig blocking member of at least one insert element, the at least one insert element being provided in the valve block body at a respective common root region.

[0079] Suitably, the method further comprises providing fluid communication between the common root region and a channel portion extending from the common root region via a plurality of through holes in the sleeve body of the insert element; and preventing passage of the pig device along the channel portion via a portion of the sleeve body disposed between adjacent through holes.

[0080] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a valve block body including an internal fluid communication channel that can be used to connect multiple fluid inlets with one or more selected fluid outlets as required. This enables fluid flow direction to be determined at a subsea structure including the valve block body.

[0081] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a valve block body that enables an inlet of the block body to be pigged during a pigging mode of operation.

[0082] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a valve block body and a method of manufacturing a valve block body that enables fluid flow direction to be determined at a subsea structure and that can be pigged.

[0083] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a valve block body wherein an aperture defining a fluid communication passage in the block body has a diameter selected to help prevent a pig from accidentally passing through the block body in an undesired direction during a pigging mode of operation.

[0084] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an insert and a method of making an insert that can be located within a valve block body and secured at a desired location and that enables desired fluid flow between fluid communication passages but prevents pigs from moving downwardly along the fluid communication passages in the block body during a pigging mode of operation, which is undesirable.

[0085] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a valve block body that provides a variety of fluid flow path options and is piggable between inlets of the valve block body during a piggable mode of operation.

[0086] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a pig insert that can be located within a valve block body and includes one or more pig guide elements that enable fluid flow to be selected in a desired direction but prevent a pig used in a pigging mode of operation from accidentally becoming stuck or moving partially along an undesired passage in the valve block body.

[0087] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a subsea structure such as a manifold that can be used to connect multiple inlet fluid flow lines to at least one outlet fluid flow line. The connection can be selectively made so that multiple possible paths are provided, each path can be selected according to choice.

[0088] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a subsea manifold that is lighter (in terms of weight) than many conventional manifolds, thereby reducing structural and foundation requirements. This makes transportation and positioning of the manifold at a desired seafloor more convenient than conventional techniques.

[0089] Certain embodiments of the present invention utilize a modular approach to the design and manufacture of a subsea manifold or other such subsea structure. Relative to some conventional solutions, the costs associated with providing a manifold can be greatly reduced by utilizing multiple valve blocks and associated valves of a given / preset configuration rather than utilizing one or more custom valve blocks for a specific application.

[0090] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a cluster / drilling center manifold that can facilitate the direction of fluid flow from multiple adjacent Christmas trees connected to the manifold via jumpers. This helps provide flexibility to co-mix and / or separate wells when needed. It also allows for reuse of previous exploration wells. Other requirements such as chemical injection, control, monitoring and / or testing equipment systems can also be accommodated.

[0091] Certain embodiments provide a method for pigging a manifold valve block and optionally branch lines and possibly a subsea Christmas tree connected to the valve block.

[0092] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a compact and modular manifold using modular block branch assemblies. The repeatability of the block design of the manifold assembly including a universal mounting configuration and a repeatable manufacturing method means that the manifold can be constructed where needed in a convenient and efficient manner.

[0093] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an additive manufacturing process for producing a manifold valve block body that can be pigged and optionally includes one or more pig ejector elements to help prevent pigs from becoming stuck or improperly directed during a pigging mode of operation.

[0094] Certain embodiments of the present invention facilitate standardization of multiple components shared with a Christmas tree system, thereby allowing for volume purchase discounts and the feasibility of implementing stocking agreements. Commonality of parts also facilitates customer needs for reduced spare parts, storage, and maintenance levels.

[0095] Thus, certain embodiments of the present invention provide standardized components and subassemblies that can be supplied "off the shelf" to meet any specific requirements for any specific application. The valve block can be manufactured, qualified and pressure tested before being shipped to the area of ​​use for final assembly and installation. Thus, the branch block thus becomes a subassembly of the cluster manifold, allowing a high degree of local content assembly.

[0096] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a retrofittable insert that can be pre-fabricated and subsequently placed subsea in an existing valve block, thereby enabling the valve block body to be retrofitted to include one or more pig blocking structures.

[0097] Certain embodiments of the present invention allow for in-house manufacturing, providing better valve block control and repeatability compared to third party manufacturing.

[0098] Certain embodiments of the present invention allow manifold branch piping and isolation valves to be combined, standardized, and packaged into a common standard branch block assembly.

[0099] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a standard interface for header and manifold structures.

[0100] Certain embodiments of the present invention allow for reduced pipe segment fabrication and / or welding, thereby simplifying the manifold assembly process.

[0101] Certain embodiments of the present invention allow for FAT testing of a block assembly before its components are shipped and / or delivered to a manufacturing site.

[0102] Certain embodiments of the present invention will now be described hereinafter, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0103] Figure 1 A subsea structure is shown in the form of a compact manifold near a well completion and branch lines connecting the manifold to a corresponding subsea Christmas tree;

[0104] Figure 2 A plan view showing a manifold including two valve block assemblies, each valve block assembly being capable of receiving two fluid inlet flows from respective branch lines and connected to an associated header;

[0105] Figure 3a Show Figure 2 A perspective view of one of the two valve blocks and associated valves is shown;

[0106] Figure 3b shows a plan view from above of a valve block and associated valves including a pig path isolation valve on a central through passage;

[0107] Figure 4 A fluid communication passage comprising a central through hole in a rigid valve block body is shown;

[0108] Figure 5 shows the outlet of fluid through an outlet block and how the direction of the outlet can be selectively reoriented;

[0109] Figure 6 The fluid outlet is shown with the addition of an optional manual or actuated small bore chemical injection valve and connectors for pressure and temperature sensors;

[0110] Figure 7 shows how to block a pig by providing holes with different inner diameters in the valve block body;

[0111] Figure 8 A pig insert is shown having a casing body perforated with elongated slots, thereby providing pig blocking capability;

[0112] Fig. 9 showing the slot in the sleeve of the insert;

[0113] Fig.10 showing the ends of the slots lying on an imaginary circle when viewed from a position aligned with the channel portion;

[0114] Fig.11 An alternative pig blocking insert having a fluid communication passage is shown which blocks the pig but allows fluid communication;

[0115] Fig.12 showing diametrically opposed sets of circular holes in the sleeve body of the insert;

[0116] Fig.13 A subsea Christmas tree is shown in fluid communication with a manifold and associated headers;

[0117] Fig.14 is a pigging operation mode showing pigging of branch lines and valve block bodies; and

[0118] Fig.15 An alternative pigging mode of operation is shown in which a subsea Christmas tree, associated jumpers and manifold valve blocks may be pigged.

[0119] In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts.

[0120] Figure 1 A subsea location 100 is shown above a well completion 110 that extends from a subsea subsurface location to the sea floor and terminates in a Christmas tree 120 . Figure 1 Four subsea Christmas trees 120 are shown, each connected to a subsea manifold 140 via a respective jumper 130. The manifold 140 is connected to a lifting point 170 via two headers 150, 160 and then to a floating platform 195 via respective risers 180, 190. Figure 1 Although a floating platform on the sea surface is shown, it should be understood that certain embodiments of the present invention relate to a subsea structure capable of connecting a fluid flow pipeline capable of transporting produced fluids or other such fluids associated with the oil and gas industry to shore. Likewise, it should be understood that although Figure 1 A subsea manifold 140 is shown, but certain embodiments of the present invention relate to selecting fluid flow paths at many different types of subsea structures where pigging is required and multiple inputs should be selectively connected to one or more fluid outlets to individually allow fluid to flow from one location to another, or to allow multiple input streams to mix and then flow out through a common outlet.

[0121] Figure 2 Shown in more detail Figure 1 A plan view of a top view of a manifold 140 is shown. The manifold 140 includes a rigid frame 200 that supports two headers 150, 160 in a spaced apart, substantially parallel configuration. Figure 2 It is also helpful to show two rigid valve block bodies 2101, 2102, which are arranged in a spaced relationship substantially parallel to the two lower headers. The two headers are located outside the valve block bodies. Each valve block body is a rigid block of material, such as a forged metal body. This can be made from a single forging that then has an internal lumen drilled through it, or can be 3D printed or made via another type of additive manufacturing process. Other manufacturing techniques and even other materials can of course be utilized.

[0122] Figure 22 shows how four flow selector valves 2201 extend from the upper surface of the first valve block body 2101. Similarly, four flow selector valves 2202 extend outwardly (from the upper surface of the second valve block body 2102). Figure 2 The pages in the image extend outward). Figure 2 It also helps to show how to first ( Figure 2 Two inlet isolation valves 2301 are provided on the valve block body (left hand side in the figure). Similarly, two inlet isolation valves 2302 are provided on the right hand side (such as Figure 2 Extends from the upper surface of the valve block body). Figure 2 It is also helpful to show how a pig path isolation valve 235 is provided for each valve block body. Each isolation valve and each flow selector valve and each pig path isolation valve can be remotely controlled via a corresponding electric mechanism or hydraulic mechanism to selectively open and close. Each isolation valve 230 can be closed to prevent fluid from flowing from an inlet fluid flow line connected to a corresponding fluid inlet into an internal fluid communication channel in the valve block body. Likewise, each flow selector valve or flow selector valve can be selectively closed or opened to allow fluid to flow along the fluid communication channel portion provided by the hole in the valve block body. Likewise, each pig path isolation valve can be selectively opened or closed to allow or prevent pigging of the corresponding valve block.

[0123] Figure 2 It is also shown how each valve block body includes two outlet blocks 240 . Figure 2 The first valve block body 210 shown on the left hand side includes a left hand side and a right hand side (in Figure 2 Middle) exit block 2401. Similarly, the right hand side ( Figure 2 The valve block 2102 includes left-hand and right-hand outlet blocks 2402. These outlet blocks 240 can be securely bolted to the valve block body 210 in a selected orientation of four possible orientations, whereby the outlet apertures in the outlet blocks can point downward (into the Figure 2 ), pointing up (leaving Figure 2 ) or point left and right ( Figure 2 It will be appreciated that if the outlet block is appropriately shaped (hexagonal or octagonal) and provided with suitable fixing elements, fewer than four or more than four possible orientations may be utilized.

[0124] Figure 3a and Figure 3b A single rigid valve block body 210 is shown in more detail and shows a first fluid inlet 300 which is an opening in an outer surface of the valve block body.A further fluid inlet 310 is shown at an opposite end of the rigid valve block body. Figure 3a and Figure 3bIt also helps to illustrate how the outlet block 240 may be secured to the rigid valve block body via bolts 320. Other securing mechanisms may of course be utilized.

[0125] Figure 4 Figure 1 shows the passages formed inside the rigid valve block body. Figure 4 It is helpful to illustrate how to use the rigid valve block body 210 to determine the flow direction at the subsea structure. The valve block body includes a first fluid inlet 300 and an additional fluid inlet 310 at opposite ends of the rigid valve block body. The first fluid outlet 400 is an opening in one side of the valve block body. The additional fluid outlet 410 is provided by another opening in the outer surface at the remaining side of the valve block body. The first fluid outlet and the additional fluid outlet are arranged at opposite sides of the valve block body in a spaced relationship. The first V-shaped fluid communication channel 420 extends from a straight inlet channel portion 425, which leads from the first fluid inlet 300 via an isolation valve chamber 430 to the intersection point where the two channel portions of the V-shaped fluid communication channel join. That is, the first V-shaped fluid communication channel is formed by two channel portions 432, 434 intersecting at a first common root area 436. The fluid entering the first fluid inlet 300 reaches the root area 436 along the straight channel portion 425. The state of the respective flow selector valve in the respective selector valve chamber 438, 440 determines whether the incoming fluid flow from the inlet flow is diverted in one direction or the other or in both directions along the respective channel portion 432, 434.

[0126] The further inlet 310, which is a fluid inlet at the end of the rigid valve block body opposite to the first fluid inlet 300, also feeds into a straight fluid communication channel portion 455, which extends into a root region from which the first fluid communication channel portion 462 and the further fluid communication channel portion 464 extend via the isolation valve chamber 460. Each of those fluid communication channel portions 462, 464 intersects at a common root region 466. The state of the flow isolation valve in the isolation valve chamber 460 determines whether the fluid provided at the further inlet 310 flows into the valve block body. If the fluid flow does flow into the valve block body because the isolation valve is open, the fluid will flow down one or both fluid communication channel portions. Which path to flow in is determined by the state of the corresponding flow selection valve in the corresponding flow selection valve chamber 468, 470.

[0127] therefore, Figure 4 1 shows how the rigid valve block body includes a first V-shaped fluid communication channel and an additional V-shaped fluid communication channel. Figure 4In the rigid valve block body shown, the valve block body has arms extending away from a central generally square (in plan view) area. The inlet channel portion extends from the inlet to the root of the V-shaped fluid communication channel in one arm, thereby providing a substantially Y-shaped fluid communication channel. Figure 4 As shown, the two V-shaped channels are opposed in the sense that the ends of the channel portions 432, 434, 462, 464 intersect adjacent to the respective outlets 400, 410. That is, the end region of each channel portion of the first V-shaped fluid communication channel merges with the end region of the respective channel portion of the other V-shaped fluid communication channel adjacent to the respective fluid outlet.

[0128] Figure 4 It is helpful to show that the fluid communication passage 480 extends between the first root area 436 and the other root area 466. This forms a "straight-through" path through the valve block body that enables a pig used during the pigging mode of operation to pass through and thereby clean the valve block body. The pig path isolation valve is located in an associated pig path isolation valve chamber in the valve block body. In normal operation, when fluid flows from one or more inlets to one or more selected outlets, the central passage is kept closed by selecting the closed state of the pig path isolation valve. In the pigging mode of operation, the pig path isolation valve can be selectively opened to allow a pig device to pass from one inlet to another.

[0129] Figure 4 It is helpful to illustrate how each of the outlets 400, 410 is "capped" by a respective outlet block 240. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The outlet block is shown in more detail in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, outlet block 240 has an exit aperture in neck 500. Outlet block 240 can be selectively bolted to an aperture in valve block body 210 in one of four possible orientations, pointing toward the neck and thus the outlet orifice up, down, left or right.

[0130] Figure 6 It is helpful to illustrate how various valves or sensors may be secured to or as part of outlet block 240. For example, an actuated valve 610 or manual valve 620 and / or a sensor 630 may be secured to outlet block 240.

[0131] Thus, certain embodiments of the present invention provide a compact branch block manifold or other such subsea structure that can use a modular approach to meet customer requirements for pre-designed manifold branch assemblies that can be combined together on a set of common headers to meet specific manifold applications. A range of multi-groove diamond orifice blocks of known size, pressure rating, and depth rating can be utilized. These can use commonality of components and shared qualification requirements. A rigid valve block body is provided with an external header, which can help significantly reduce the cost and weight of the manifold.

[0132] Flow from the subsea tree may enter the manifold branch (or slot) block via suitable manual or actuated isolation valves. The rigid blocks are sized so that the inlet connections on the blocks may be flanged / studded / butt welded or via integral hub connections / clamps as per project requirements.

[0133] On the inside of the inlet valve, depending on whether the flow path is blocked by an isolation (manual or actuated) valve, the flow direction has the option of traveling downward along multiple internal holes. Suitably, these holes will intersect at about 120° to 150° relative to the inlet connection. Suitably, the holes intersect at about 135° relative to the inlet connection. It directs the flow to the desired outlet. Suitably, these can be connected to a double header manifold piping system. The outlet merges without flowing from a similar back-to-back valve / hole configuration of the second well slot. The merged flow forms a diamond hole configuration in the block by merging the flow from the slot in the block. This helps to reduce the number and complexity of the pipeline connections formed on the manifold. Because the outlet of the block is directly connected to the manifold, the outlet provides additional connection points for additional pressure and temperature sensors and for guiding chemical injection fluids into the manifold. When such injection ports are needed, this helps to simplify the manifold configuration. Therefore, the diamond hole configuration presents the best design for use in a double header manifold or a single header manifold with a sampling or injection line.

[0134] By using a block construction method, the thermal properties of the block can be tightly controlled, and there is the option to easily add insulation to the plate side of the block. This can be applied in applications where thermal inertia is a key requirement for produced fluid management during well intervention or unplanned shut-in events.

[0135] The block includes back-to-back well connection slots, and each block design includes two well outer slots. The produced fluid enters the block through a suitable connection on the outside of the well isolation valve. The flow path is then divided into two discharge flow holes arranged at approximately 135° to the inlet flow path. The produced fluid can then be directed through one of the flow holes through a selector valve to an outlet located on either side of the block. Alternatively, as described below, for a four-slot or six-slot variant, the flow can flow to a central fluid exit / outlet located in the middle of the block. Due to the nature of the back-to-back well slot construction, the holes form a diamond pattern inside the block. The holes intersect at an angle of 90° or 180° relative to each other at the outlet. This helps to maintain the cross-sectional area within the flow path so that the external interception holes are countersunk relative to the face of the block.

[0136] Side blocks (also called outlet blocks or end blocks) mount to the sides of the main (or primary) valve block body to collect flow and direct it to the manifold. These side blocks are held on by four sets of studs and nuts. This helps allow the side blocks to be rotated relative to the main block through 90° increments to direct flow to a preferred location within the manifold. This helps simplify piping arrangements and reduces the number of wells (and therefore potential leak paths) required in any interconnecting pipe work.

[0137] Figure 7 An alternative valve block body 710 is shown. Figure 7 The valve block body shown includes a first fluid inlet 700 and an additional fluid inlet 710. The inlets are formed in the valve block body 715. Figure 7 As shown, through Figure 7 The holes or passages of the valve block body shown do not have a common internal bore.That is, the central through hole 720 usable during the pigging mode of operation has a cross section 725 that is larger than a corresponding cross section 730 in the passage portion leading from the root region to the outlet of the valve block body. Figure 7 The inner bore 725 of the piggable main through hole shown has an inner diameter of about 240 mm to 280 mm. Suitably, as an alternative, the inner bore diameter may be about 200 mm to 400 mm. In contrast, the inner bore 730 in the channel portion leading to the outlet has an inner bore diameter of about 110 mm to 150 mm. Suitably, as an alternative, the inner bore diameter of the non-pigable side channel portion may be about 90 mm to 230 mm.

[0138] Figure 7It is helpful to show how a pig is prevented from accidentally traveling down an undesired passage in the valve block body. It will be appreciated that the pig device of preset outer diameter is selected based on the hole through the main valve block body that will be pigged along with any jumper tubes and / or subsea Christmas trees that are cleaned during the pigging mode of operation. Because the side channels of the V-shaped fluid communication channel have a smaller diameter, the pig is prevented from accidentally traveling down an undesired channel portion that will lead to an outlet (which is not pigged). Suitably, the inner bore diameter of each channel portion leading to or from the outlet of the valve block body is less than 70% and optionally less than 50% of the corresponding inner bore diameter of the inlet connecting fluid communication channel, which passes straight through the valve block body and is piggable.

[0139] Figure 8 An alternative valve block body is shown. The first fluid inlet 800 and the further fluid inlet 810 are arranged on opposite ends of the valve block body 815. The inner bore diameter of the through hole connecting the first fluid inlet 800 to the further fluid inlet 810 and thus constituting an inlet connecting fluid communication channel extending between the first common root area and the further common root area has a similar bore size to the channel portion that is part of the V-shaped fluid communication channel leading from the root area to the corresponding outlet. Figure 8 It shows how an insert 840 may be utilized at a common root region 845 to prevent a pig passing between a first fluid inlet 800 and a further fluid inlet 810 from accidentally becoming trapped or deflected along an undesired path.

[0140] Fig. 9 Shown in more detail Figure 8 Insert 840 is shown. Fig. 9 It is helpful to illustrate how the insert is a generally cylindrical sleeve body 900 having a first open tube head 910 and another open tube head 920 at the remaining end of the sleeve 900. The outer diameter of the insert has a diameter that substantially matches the inner diameter of the through hole through the valve block body and provides an inlet connection fluid communication passage. The sleeve 900 has a relatively thin thickness. Fig. 9 The sleeve shown has a thickness of about 20 mm to 60 mm. In use, the sleeve is substantially aligned along the inlet connection fluid communication channel and presents a substantially open hole and therefore has little fluid restriction. That is, in the case of the sleeve, the fluid tends to flow along the central hole in a more or less unrestricted manner.

[0141] Fig. 9 It is helpful to illustrate how one or more openings 930 are formed in the cannula body. Fig. 9 and Fig. 9In the illustrated insert, each through opening in the casing body is an elongated slit. Four slits are shown on one side of the casing 900, and another four slits are shown on the other side of the casing that is approximately diametrically opposite the first side. The through holes formed as slits in the casing body allow fluid to flow from the area inside the casing into the side channel portion leading to the fluid outlet. In contrast, the portions of the casing body that remain between the slits each effectively provide a pig preventing member 940.

[0142] Fig.10 Show Figure 8 and Fig. 9 Another view of insert 840 is shown. Fig.10 It is helpful to illustrate how the edges of the opening 930 on each side of the sleeve have edges that fall on an imaginary circle 1000 when viewed from a position along the axis of the side channel portion. That is, from the perspective of fluid flow in the channel portion between the root area and the outlet of the valve block body, the opening in the sleeve represents a substantially open path. However, the portions of the sleeve that do not have through holes formed therein act as pig prevention members, thereby preventing a pig that passes through the central hole in the valve body from accidentally traveling down the side channel portion.

[0143] Fig.11 An alternative insert in the valve block body is shown. Fig.11 As shown, a first fluid inlet 1100 is connected to a further fluid inlet 1110 on an opposite end of a valve block body 1115. An insert 1140 is suitably located at a common root region from which side channel portions extend to respective outlets formed in the valve block body. Fig.12 Helps to show in more detail Fig.11 The insert 1140 is shown. This insert has a first plurality of through holes 1210 on one side of a sleeve-like body 1215 and a further plurality of through holes 1220 formed in the sleeve body approximately diametrically opposite the first plurality of through holes. Fig.12 In FIG. 1 , the through-hole cluster is shown to include four large diameter circular through-holes and six small diameter circular through-holes. This configuration and cluster is repeated on diametrically opposite sides of the sleeve. Each through-hole in the plurality of through-holes in the sleeve-like body of the insert thus includes a circular aperture. Each through-hole in the plurality of through-holes includes one, two or three small diameter holes (in Fig.12The through holes are provided with at least one additional small diameter hole pair (two are shown in the drawing) which are disposed between two spaced apart large diameter holes aligned along a common primary alignment axis 1230. When viewed in a plan view side on the sleeve body, two additional larger diameter holes are aligned at a center point 1240 associated with the small diameter hole between the two large holes on the common primary alignment axis, and the two additional larger diameter holes are perpendicular to the common primary alignment axis. Each of the groups or clusters of through holes includes at least one additional small diameter hole pair, each small hole in the small diameter hole pair being aligned on a respective side of a respective additional larger diameter hole along a secondary alignment axis 1250 which is spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the primary alignment axis 1230. Each small diameter hole is a circular hole having a diameter between approximately 50 mm and 90 mm. In Fig.12 In the embodiment, each small diameter hole has an inner diameter of about 15 mm to 30 mm. Each large diameter hole is a circular hole having a diameter between about 100 mm and 200 mm. Fig.12 In the embodiment, each large diameter hole has a diameter of about 50 mm to 110 mm. Optionally, the diameter of each large hole is less than Fig.12 25% of the circumference of the cannula body as shown. Fig.12 The insert 1140 shown allows fluid to flow more or less unrestricted along the central through hole forming the inlet connection fluid communication channel in the valve block body. Likewise, the insert provides a relatively open path for fluid to flow from the common root area where the insert is located to the outlet. However, the material of the sleeve-like body of the insert between the circular holes is used to prevent a pig device used in a pigging operation mode from moving along the inlet connection fluid communication channel and accidentally moving along one of the side channel portions toward the fluid outlet. It should be understood that alternative numbers and configurations of circular through holes can be utilized, and the material forming the sleeve-like body of the insert accordingly provides one or more pig blocking members.

[0144] In the previously described embodiments, the valve block body may be made of a solid low alloy steel forging. The central through hole connecting the root region may be machined by drilling / milling and may optionally receive a weld layer of a corrosion resistant alloy. Suitably, the corrosion resistant material may be Inconel or the like.

[0145] Optionally, such as Figure 8 or Fig.11 The insert body shown is made from a solid corrosion resistant block. Suitably this is Inconel or Super Duplex or similar material. After the insert has been machined it is positioned within the valve block with corresponding openings, such as slits or round through holes, aligned with corresponding side holes. The insert may then be fixed in place via a welding operation.

[0146] Fig.13 The subsea manifold is shown secured to six subsea Christmas trees via respective jumper tubes. Fig.13 As shown, each subsea tree 1320 is connected to the manifold via a respective jumper 1330 . Fig.13 The manifold shown includes three valve block bodies of the type previously described. The manifold is connected to two headers 150, 160, which deliver fluids toward target locations. During use, the Christmas tree selectively provides fluids to the fluid inlets of the corresponding valve block bodies, and the fluid flow can be selected by actuating the selector valve to connect the fluid to the header.

[0147] Fig.14 Shows how to Fig.13 The pigging operation mode is performed on the subsea tree and manifold valve block as shown. Fig.14 As shown, when the subsea tree itself is not piggable, each respective jumper tube 1330 is first disconnected from the tree, and then a pig launcher 1400 may be connected to the end 1410 of the respective jumper tube 1330. Likewise, another pig launcher / receiver 1430 is connected to another jumper tube 1330 on the opposite side of the manifold valve block body. The pig device 1440 may then be advanced along the connected jumper tubes 1330 to the first ( Fig.14 The pig approach isolation valve is opened at this stage, thereby enabling the pig device 1440 to pass through the valve block body through the remaining inlet at the opposite end of the manifold valve block body, and the pig can pass into another jumper on its way to the opposite pig launching unit 1430. In this way, during the pigging operation mode, two jumpers and the corresponding manifold valve block body can be pigged. After pigging the two branch pipelines provided by the corresponding jumpers, the jumpers can then be reconnected to their corresponding subsea oil production trees for further normal operation. The pig launcher can then be used to clean the remaining branch pipelines by first disconnecting the corresponding oil production trees and then pigging through the jumpers and manifold valve block body during the pigging operation mode.

[0148] Fig.15 An alternative pigging mode of operation is shown, in which the Christmas tree itself is piggable. Fig.15As shown, a piggable subsea tree 1510 is connected to a pig launcher 1520. The pig launcher can launch a pig 1525 into a corresponding jumper tube 1530 through the piggable subsea tree 1510. During the pigging operation mode, the pig passes through the jumper tube into the corresponding manifold valve block body 1535, which has opened the pig path isolation valve. This enables the pig device 1525 to pass all the way through the valve block body and exit through the remaining jumper tube 1540 connected to another piggable subsea tree 1545. Another pig launching unit 1550 is connected to the piggable subsea tree 1545 during the pigging operation mode. After the pigging is completed, the corresponding pig path isolation valve is closed.

[0149] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, a valve block may be sized / optimized for a specific valve orifice size and pressure rating. Thus, a range of block configurations may be developed to meet a range of subsea tree sizes and pressure ratings. Valves within any block may be appropriately positioned to account for not only variations in actuation methods, but also any effects of water depth on actuator size requirements.

[0150] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide improved thermal performance, thereby reducing insulation requirements. By using a block construction method, the thermal characteristics of the block can be tightly controlled, and insulation can be easily added to the plate side of the block. This can be achieved for applications when thermal inertia is an important requirement for managing produced fluids during well intervention or unplanned shut-in events.

[0151] Because the produced fluid streams are combined at the block outlet, the number of connections required to the header is immediately reduced, thereby simplifying the piping work and minimizing welding and non-destructive testing requirements. This inherent reduction in field welded connections automatically helps to simplify the manifold assembly and testing process and requirements. This may speed up the assembly and testing process and reduce the need for complex manufacturing fixtures.

[0152] By using blocks of known size and dimensions with predefined interface locations, the manifold structure can be modulated with dedicated structural interfaces to the blocks (i.e. for guide supports or anchor supports) and to the integrated ROV panel. This helps to accelerate the project design process while reducing the risk of omissions / errors in the complete manifold assembly.

[0153] Where appropriate, according to certain embodiments of the invention, the blocks can be machined to provide integral micro-manifolds for any subsea compensation circuitry required for the actuators, and to provide anchor points for associated small bore piping. Thus, the blocks also help to simplify the small bore piping required for the header system.

[0154] Throughout the detailed description and claims of this specification, the words "comprise" and "contain" and their variations mean "including but not limited to", and they are not intended to (and do not) exclude other parts, additives, components, integral bodies or steps. Throughout the detailed description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification should be understood as contemplating plural as well as singularity unless the context requires otherwise.

[0155] Features, integers, features or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment or example of the invention are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described herein unless incompatible therewith. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except that at least some of the features and / or steps are mutually exclusive combinations. The invention is not limited to any details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel step or novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0156] The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents filed in connection with this patent application concurrently with or before this specification and which disclose public inspection of the present specification, and the contents of all these papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A rigid valve block body for determining a fluid flow direction at a subsea structure, the rigid valve block body comprising: a first fluid inlet and a further fluid inlet, the first fluid inlet and the further fluid inlet being located at opposite end regions of the rigid valve block body; a first fluid outlet of the valve block body and a further fluid outlet of the valve block body, the first fluid outlet and the further fluid outlet being disposed in spaced relationship; a first V-shaped fluid communication passage, the first V-shaped fluid communication passage comprising two passage portions, each of the passage portions extending from a first common root region adjacent to the first fluid inlet within the valve block body; a further V-shaped fluid communication channel, the further V-shaped fluid communication channel comprising two further channel portions, each of the further channel portions extending within the valve block body away from a further common root region adjacent to a further fluid port, wherein an end region of each channel portion of the first V-shaped fluid communication channel merges with an end region of a respective channel portion of the further V-shaped fluid communication channel adjacent to a respective fluid outlet of the valve block body; as well as An inlet connection fluid communication channel extends between the first common root region and the further common root region.

2. The valve block body according to claim 1, further comprising: The inner aperture of each channel portion is smaller than the corresponding inner aperture of the inlet connection fluid communication channel.

3. The valve block body according to claim 2, further comprising: The internal pore size of each channel portion is less than 70% of the corresponding internal pore size of the inlet connection fluid communication channel, and optionally less than 50% of the corresponding internal pore size.

4. The valve block body according to claim 1, further comprising: At least one insert element, each located at a respective common root region, includes a sleeve body having an open head at each respective sleeve body end and at least one through hole in a side wall of the sleeve body.

5. The valve block body according to claim 4, further comprising: The at least one through hole includes a first plurality of through holes and an additional plurality of through holes disposed on diametrically opposed regions of the sleeve body.

6. The valve block body according to claim 5, further comprising: Each through-hole in each plurality of through-holes includes an elongated groove.

7. The valve block body according to claim 6, further comprising: Each elongated groove is configured such that when viewed from a side at the same angle as the offset angle between each channel portion and the inlet connection fluid communication channel, the contour edge area of ​​each groove falls on an imaginary circle.

8. The valve block body according to claim 5, further comprising: Each through-hole in each plurality of through-holes includes a circular aperture.

9. The valve block body according to claim 8, further comprising: Each plurality of through holes includes one, two or three small diameter holes disposed between two spaced apart large diameter holes aligned along a common primary alignment axis, and two additional larger diameter holes each aligned at a center point associated with the small diameter holes and perpendicular to and on respective opposite sides of the common primary alignment axis.

10. The valve block body according to claim 9, further comprising: Each plurality of through holes comprises at least one additional small diameter hole pair, each small hole in the additional small diameter hole pair being aligned on a respective side of a respective additional large diameter hole along a secondary alignment axis, the secondary alignment axis being spaced apart from the primary alignment axis and being substantially parallel to the primary alignment axis.

11. A method of providing a rigid valve block body, the method comprising the steps of: Provide valve block body blank; providing a first lumen through the blank from a first fluid inlet at a first blank end to a further fluid inlet at a further blank end; providing a second lumen and a third lumen as respective passage portions from a first fluid outlet on a first blank side to respective ones of a first common root region and a further common root region in fluid communication with the first lumen; and A fourth lumen and a fifth lumen are provided as respective passage portions from a further fluid outlet on a further blank side to a respective one of the first common root region and the further common root region.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: The first lumen is provided as an inlet connection fluid communication channel having an inner bore diameter larger than the corresponding inner bore diameter of each channel portion, and optionally provided as a straight through hole in the blank or as a through hole curved with a curvature radius greater than 2 m.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: providing at least one insert element at the respective common root region, the at least one insert element comprising a casing body associated with the longitudinal casing passage; aligning a respective open tip at each respective cannula body end with a major axis of the first lumen; as well as At least one through hole in the side wall of the sleeve body is aligned with a flow axis associated with a corresponding channel portion.

14. A method for cleaning a manifold valve block body, the method comprising: providing a pig device at a first fluid inlet of a first fluid inlet and a further fluid inlet provided at opposite end regions of a valve block body, the first fluid inlet and the further fluid inlet comprising a first V-shaped fluid communication channel and a further V-shaped fluid communication shaped channel, the first V-shaped fluid communication channel comprising two channel portions each extending from a first common root region adjacent to the first fluid inlet in the valve block body, the further V-shaped fluid communication shaped channel comprising two further channel portions each extending away from a further common root region adjacent to the further fluid inlet in the valve block body; The pig device is propelled from the first fluid inlet to the remaining fluid inlets via an inlet connecting fluid communication channel extending between the first common root region and the further common root region.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: The pig device is prevented from deviating from a path aligned with the inlet connection fluid communication passage.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: The pig device is prevented from deflecting by providing the passage portion as a hole in the valve block body, the inner bore diameter of the passage portion being smaller than the inner bore diameter of the inlet connection fluid communication passage.

17. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: The pig device is prevented from deflecting by at least a pig blocking member via at least one insert element, which is arranged in the valve block body at a respective common root area.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: providing fluid communication between a common root region and a channel portion extending from the common root region via a plurality of through holes in a sleeve body of the insert element; as well as The pig device is prevented from passing along the passage portion via a portion of the casing body disposed between adjacent through holes.

19. A method for determining the direction of fluid flow at a subsea structure, the method comprising the steps of: providing an incoming fluid flow to at least one fluid inlet of a plurality of fluid inlets of the valve block body; as well as selecting a state of a corresponding isolation valve in a flow path of each of two corresponding channel portions of at least one V-shaped fluid communication channel of at least two V-shaped fluid communication channels in the valve block body; as well as selecting a closed state of the pig path isolation valve to prevent fluid flow along the inlet connection fluid communication passage between the first fluid inlet and the further fluid inlet of the valve block body; thus The incoming fluid flow is directed from the at least one fluid inlet of the valve block body to a selected one of the fluid outlets.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: providing an incoming fluid flow simultaneously at a plurality of said fluid inlets; as well as Via a selected state of the isolation valve in the V-shaped fluid communication passage, and with the pig path isolation valve in a closed state, directing the incoming flow along multiple channel portions to a common outlet, thereby mixing fluids from multiple sources, or directing the incoming flow to separate fluid outlets, thereby keeping fluids from multiple sources separated as the fluids flow through the valve block body.

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