New Electronic Module Improves Links with Subsea Manifold
May 28, 2002
Capenhurst-based EA Technology has developed a new Subsea Electronic Module, to provide more efficient links between offshore host platforms and well head manifolds.
Commissioned by offshore system specialist eProduction Solutions (formerly CAC), it is designed to provide a full range of control, data acquisition, diagnostics and communications facilities via existing dual redundant umbilical power supply connections, without the need for expensive communications cabling.
The module is part of a new multiplexed electro-hydraulic control system that is much smaller than hydraulic equipment traditionally employed in well head subsea manifold installations. As a result, it can be deployed / retrieved from a standard work-over / diver-support vessel.
In its first installation, the Subsea Electronic Module utilised a 3000m electro-hydraulic control umbilical, which linked an offshore production platform to the well head manifold. To ensure high availability and reliability the system employs dual signalling, using power line transmission, together with dual low and high pressure hydraulic supply hoses.
The module enables the host platform to communicate with the dual-redundant subsea process control system, using an industry standard protocol. It also performs data acquisition of down-hole pressure, temperature and diagnostics via a communication gateway module to standard subsea industry supplied gauge cards.
Robert Davis, EA Technology's electronics commercial manager, said: "The unit is fulfilling its two design objectives: improving offshore control and communications, and saving money for the operator. It is a classic example of gaining benefits by exploiting the appropriate technologies."
Based at Capenhurst, near Chester, EA Technology is the UK=s foremost centre for the successful development, exploitation and application of energy-related technologies and services. Formerly the research arm of the electricity industry, it was the subject of a management and employee buy-out in October 1997 and is now entirely independent.
CAC specialises in the design, engineering and manufacturing of automation, optimisation and control system technologies for onshore and offshore oil and gas production. The company is part of eProduction Solutions, which is based in Houston, Texas.
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