Subsea Control Module Segmentation for Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing subsea control modules require the complete retrieval and shutdown of a subsea well for maintenance or replacement of electronic modules, which is complex, time-consuming, and costly due to their large size and weight.
Innovation Solution
Designing a subsea control module with two separately retrievable electronic modules that can operate independently, allowing for maintenance or replacement without shutting down the well, using multiplexing logic and wet mate connectors for efficient communication and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the complete subsea control module is retrieved for maintenance or replacement of electronic modules, then the system can be maintained, but the operation becomes complex, time-consuming, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is divided into separate electronic modules that can be independently retrieved and replaced without removing the entire control module assembly. Each electronic module is a separate unit that can be handled independently, reducing the complexity and time of maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic modules are extracted as separate, removable components from the control module housing. This allows the electronic modules to be removed and replaced without disturbing the hydraulic manifold and other components, enabling maintenance without well shutdown and reducing retrieval complexity.
2Ease of repair
If the complete subsea control module is retrieved, then the electronic modules can be replaced, but the weight and complexity of retrieval operations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a heavy hydraulic manifold portion and lighter electronic module portions. Only the lightweight electronic modules need to be retrieved and replaced, not the entire control module assembly, significantly reducing the weight that must be handled during maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic modules are extracted as separate lightweight components from the control module. This extraction allows maintenance personnel to handle and replace only the necessary electronic components rather than the entire control module, reducing retrieval operation complexity and cost.
3Ease of repair
If the well is shut down for module replacement, then the maintenance can be performed, but the operational costs and oil recovery are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into independently replaceable electronic modules that can be swapped while the well remains operational. This modular approach allows maintenance to be performed without shutting down the well, maintaining oil recovery productivity during the maintenance process.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic modules are designed with preliminary connectivity features (such as pre-configured connectors and wiring) that enable rapid replacement without requiring well shutdown. The modules are prepared for quick exchange operations that can be performed while the well remains producing.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to subsea control modules (SCMs). According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a subsea control module (10) comprising a hydraulic manifold (12) and two separately retrievable subsea electronic modules (24a, 24b). The present invention also relates to a method of maintaining a subsea control module, and to a method of modifying an existing subsea control module.