X-Mas Tree Barrier Testing Through Existing MEG Service Lines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current barrier testing methods for X-mas tree production systems in the oil and gas industry require a separate service line for pressure manipulation, which is costly and complex, and must function subsea without failure, while maintaining continuous MEG injection.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a pressure increasing unit, fluid lines, and valves to manipulate pressure for barrier testing by tapping off an existing fluid source, eliminating the need for a dedicated service line and allowing pressure manipulation from the topside.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate service line is used for barrier testing, then pressure manipulation for testing is enabled, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing MEG service line is designed to serve dual purposes: continuous hydrate inhibition during production and barrier testing when needed. The same line that delivers MEG for preventing hydrate formation is used to deliver test fluid for pressure testing barrier valves, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated test line
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the barrier testing function with the existing MEG injection infrastructure. By integrating the testing capability into the operational MEG line, the system merges two previously separate functions (production support and testing) into a single unified system, reducing overall complexity
2Reliability
If a separate service line is used for barrier testing, then pressure testing can be performed, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The MEG service line performs multiple functions including continuous hydrate inhibition and barrier testing, eliminating the need to manufacture and install a separate dedicated test line, thereby reducing capital expenditure and assembly complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The existing MEG infrastructure serves itself by providing the fluid medium needed for both its primary function (hydrate inhibition) and the testing function. The system uses its own operational fluid line to perform testing without requiring external dedicated infrastructure
3Reliability
If the main MEG line pressure is manipulated for testing, then barrier testing is enabled, but continuous injection to all wells must be shut in
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the MEG distribution network into segments, allowing a localized test to be performed on a specific branch or section without affecting the entire network. By isolating the testing operation to a specific zone, continuous injection to other wells remains uninterrupted
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a localized test manifold or isolation valve system that acts as an intermediary, allowing test fluid to be introduced into the MEG line at a specific point without disrupting the main flow to production wells. This mediator enables testing while maintaining normal operations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient barrier testing of subsea valves without additional infrastructure, reducing costs and simplifying the process while maintaining continuous MEG injection and supporting various operational challenges.
Implementation Method 1
The system provides fluid at different test pressures to the fluid line between the downstream barrier valve and the upstream barrier valve
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for barrier testing of a X-mas tree production system. The X-mas tree comprises a fluid line between a set of two barrier valves, one of the barrier valves of the set of two barrier valves being an upstream barrier valve closer to a reservoir and the other barrier valve being a downstream barrier valve closer to an environment. The system provides fluid at different test pressures to the fluid line between the downstream barrier valve and the upstream barrier valve. The system comprises a first fluid connection line from a fluid source to a pressure increasing unit; a second fluid connection line from the pressure increasing unit to a first connection point on the fluid; and a third fluid connection line from a fluid receiving unit to a second connection point on the second fluid connection line.