Flow Assurance Chemical Solutions: “What can be done to Increase the Application of Specialty Chemicals for Deepwater Developments?

Development of deepwater fields is extremely expensive. As such, it is imperative that deepwater developments produce to their full potential for favorable economics. Managing flow assurance issues is a critical aspect in achieving optimal production for deepwater developments. There are many different methods for handling flow assurance concerns. These methods are often implemented using a combination of system design and operating procedures. In general, the methods can broadly be categorized as mechanical, thermal, or chemical methods. In some instances, chemical methods can offer significant benefits for use in a development’s flow assurance strategy – either used alone or in conjunction with other methods.

In the intent of stimulating discussion, this presentation will ask the question “What can be done to increase the value and application of specialty chemicals for deepwater developments?” First, a brief review will be given on how specialty chemicals are currently used in flow assurance strategies for deepwater applications. In particular, special focus will be given to discussing where specialty chemicals provide benefits and where significant limitations exist in their use - either in meeting treatment requirements or in competing with other methods. Afterwards, some ideas will be presented on industry changes that could potentially promote the increase in chemicals for deepwater applications. These ideas range from the development of new chemistries for better performance or new applications to changing designs for delivering chemicals. In addition, there is a strong need to insure future regulatory legislation is based on sound science and practical HSE concerns, such that unreasonable restrictions do not stifle legitimate chemical applications providing minimal HSE risks.

Increasing the means in which specialty chemicals are able to provide value for deepwater applications will increase the tools available to industry. And having a larger toolbox promotes: (1) lowering expenditures, (2) increasing reliability, and (3) adding flexibility and redundancy towards meeting industry flow assurances needs for deepwater developments.