Composite Riser-Flowline Connection Without Intermediate Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hybrid riser systems for deep and ultra-deep water oil and gas exploration are costly and complex due to the need for numerous components, large construction sites, and heavy steel pipes, which complicate the connection between risers and flowlines, requiring intermediate equipment and increasing assembly time and weight.
Innovation Solution
A direct connection system between composite material risers and flowlines, eliminating the need for intermediate sections or equipment, utilizing a rigid pipeline core, riser guides, a bending limiting structure, and direct connection connectors to enable seamless integration of both rigid and flexible flowlines, reducing the number of components and assembly area, and optimizing the construction process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional steel pipes are used for hybrid riser, then structural strength is ensured, but system weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials (specifically steel-concrete composite) to construct the hybrid riser tower. The concrete infill within the steel structure provides compressive strength and reduces overall weight compared to solid steel construction, while the steel framework maintains structural integrity and strength requirements for deep and ultra-deep water applications.
2Reliability
If intermediate connection sections are used between risers and flowlines, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the riser connection function directly with the flowline interface by integrating the LRTA (Lower Riser Termination Assembly) as a unified component. This eliminates the need for separate intermediate connection sections, reducing the number of components while maintaining connection reliability through a direct, streamlined interface between the composite riser and flowline systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If large construction sites are used for assembly, then assembly precision is improved, but area requirements and construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the hybrid riser tower into modular sections that can be assembled in a compact, organized manner. The structured arrangement of modules allows for precise assembly in a reduced construction footprint, with each module containing specific components (steel framework, concrete infill, connection elements) that can be pre-assembled and then integrated systematically.
4Reliability
If numerous components are used in the connection system, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly time and construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal connection interfaces and standardized components in the LRTA assembly that serve multiple functions. The same structural elements provide both mechanical connection and alignment functions, reducing the number of specialized components needed while maintaining connection reliability. This multi-functionality streamlines the assembly process and reduces construction time.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to oil and gas exploration and comprises a direct connection system referred to as a Lower Riser Termination Assembly (LRTA), between risers made of composite material and horizontal lines installed on the seabed (flowlines). The system is applicable to a hybrid riser and its construction method allows cost reduction and system assembly/installation time optimization. The LRTA connection system is applicable to both rigid and flexible flowlines without need for any intermediate connection section/equipment between these and the risers. The construction of the system allows free vertical expansion of the risers along the entire structure. In addition, in the construction method developed for this system, the required area is significantly reduced.