Unified Riser Support Tube for Diverless FPSO Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing riser support systems for FPSOs face challenges in versatility, safety, and operational complexity, particularly in supporting both flexible and rigid risers with varying inner diameters, and require significant diving operations, which are risky and inefficient under severe environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The Diverless Unified Support Tube (DUST) integrates an upper cone, guide tube, and centralizer with automated wedges and hydraulic lateral locking modules, allowing secure riser support without human intervention, and a diverless bend stiffener locking system, suitable for both flexible and rigid risers with varying diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional riser support systems are used, then rigid and flexible risers can be supported, but significant diving operations are required which are risky and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The support tube system is designed to automatically lock and secure risers without requiring diver intervention. The system includes self-adjusting components that perform functions previously requiring manual diving operations, thereby eliminating safety risks to divers while maintaining reliable riser support
Solution Approach 2:
Manual diving operations are replaced with automated mechanical systems. The support tube incorporates automated locking mechanisms and positioning systems that can secure risers without human intervention, substituting the mechanical actions previously performed by divers with automated actuation systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If support systems are designed for versatile riser support, then both flexible and rigid risers with varying diameters can be accommodated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support tube is designed as a universal device that can accommodate both flexible and rigid risers with varying inner diameters. The tube incorporates adjustable internal components and a modular structure that allows it to adapt to different riser types and sizes without requiring multiple specialized support devices, thereby achieving versatility without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The support tube employs dynamic, adjustable components that can adapt their configuration based on the specific riser being supported. This includes movable internal structures and adjustable locking mechanisms that can be repositioned to accommodate different riser diameters and types, providing versatility through dynamic adaptation rather than static, complex multi-component systems
3Extent of automation
If automated locking mechanisms are implemented, then diverless operation is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated locking mechanism incorporates self-adjusting and self-aligning features that compensate for normal manufacturing tolerances. The system includes self-correcting elements that automatically position components correctly during operation, reducing the stringency of precision requirements compared to rigid, pre-positioned locking systems
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed with adjustable parameters and tolerances that can accommodate variations in manufacturing precision. The system includes compliant elements and adjustable positioning features that can adapt to slight dimensional variations, allowing automated operation without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances
Data Source
AI summary
A riser support is disclosed that is completely integrated into the Riser Balcony of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO), which serves both rigid and flexible risers. This riser support presents a versatility that allows the use of flexible or rigid risers with some variation in their inner diameters and the interconnection can be carried out on the port or starboard side. The Diverless Unified Support Tube (DUST) is characterized in that it comprises an upper cone, a guide tube and a centralizer, responsible for centralizing the hang-off adapter and locking the bend stiffener. The application of DUST can promote a reduction in the length of rigid pipes in the subsea arrangement by allowing keelhauling interconnections, in addition to enabling the optimization of the rigid riser interconnection operation and accelerating the Ramp-up of new SPUS.