Subsea handling equipment

Figure 4-35. Tension members of subsea handling equipment [10].

Another trend is to move processing equipment to the seabed, known as subsea processing. This requires reliability with regard to process control and stabihty/durability. In particular, sand handling is often a concern. The first subsea separation unit is due for installation fliis summer, at Norsk Hydro s Troll field (25). 

Asset management contains an array of complex range of tools and methods. From data management and storage systems used for handling vast quantities of information related to inspection and maintenance to the advanced technology of remotely operated vehicles used for inspection of subsea equipment. 

The drillfloor and the derrick (drilling tower), with pipe handling systems and the flare tower on the top, are located in the centre of the platform. In this area, we find the remaining systems, for drilling and mud treatment. Subsea equipment such as valve assemblies (X-trees) and blow-out preventer (BOP) are stored and handled in the moon-pool area below the drill floor. 

Accident risks in drilling activities on the semi are a concern. A special challenge is to secure safe handling of heavy subsea equipment in the moon pool area in the centre of the platform. Advantages with the semi are the shorter distances to the different workplaces and less movement due to heave. 

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