EA026518B1 - Assembly for connecting a subsea riser - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention describes a lower riser assembly which connects a riser to a seabed mooring and to a subsea hydrocarbon fluid source. The assembly includes sufficient intake ports to accommodate flow of hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon fluid source, as well as optional flow assurance fluid. The upper end of the member has a profile suitable for fluidly connecting to the riser. The lower end of the member includes a connector suitable for connecting to the seabed mooring. An upper riser assembly connects the riser to a near-surface subsea buoyancy device and to a surface structure. The assembly includes sufficient outtake ports to accommodate flow of hydrocarbons from the riser through a subsea flexible conduit to the surface structure. The upper end of the member includes a connector for connecting to a subsea buoyancy device. The lower end of the member comprises a profile suitable for fluidly connecting to the riser.

Description

The present invention generally relates to the creation of kits suitable for use in offshore exploration and production of hydrocarbons, during drilling, completion of wells and intervention in the operation of wells, as well as in localization and assignment. More specifically, the present invention relates to the creation of upper and lower nodes of the riser, which can be used with risers in the above applications.

State of the art

Free-standing riser systems (P8K systems) are already used in fluid production and well completion operations. A description of such systems is given in Nyope e! A1., Kesep! Esus1ortepy ίη Rhee 81apyshd KGeg Tesipoogo, 3dg ogkzior op Zizea Ireypek, Essetg 3-4, 2002, Kyu. Tapeno, Vga / P. Other examples of P8K systems are found in U.S. Patent Applications. 20070044972 and 20080223583, as well as in U.S. Pat. 4234047, 4646840, 4762180, 6082391, 6321844 and 7434624.

American Petroleum Institute Publication (ΑΡΙ) Kesottepey Rgaseys 2ΚΌ, (ΑΡΙ-ΚΡ-2ΚΌ, ΡίΓδΐ Eyyup. Type 1998), Pe81dp about! K18eg8 Gog Ioipd Rgoisyop ZuzTetz (ΡΡδδ) apy Tepsyup-Bed RkyGogp (ТРРк) is the standard for (underwater) oil and gas production.

In publication 8 / use5! A1., Neauu Oy Oaz Oy Ishd Thye SOK, 8ΡΕ 97749 (2005), describes the use of the lower node of the riser in P8K.

Add-on connectors can be internal or external. Internal add-on connectors are described in US Pat. 6,260,624; 5,299,642; 5,222,560; 5,259,459; 4,893,842; 4,976,458; 7,735,562; 5,279,369 and 5,775,427; and U.S. Patent Application. 20090277645. External add-on connectors are described in US Pat. 4,606,557; 6,234,252; 6540024; 6,070,669; 6,293,343; 7503391; 7337848; 5,330,201; 5,255,743 and 7,240,735. Drill adapters and their connections to wellheads (with a casing head or an elevator head) are described in US Pat. 20090032265. Adjustable clamps are described in US Pat. 6,065,542; 6557644 and 7219738.

Given the complexity of each reservoir, well design and riser system, even if there are some minimum standards, such as the стандарт riser standard mentioned earlier, known to those skilled in the art, it should be borne in mind that each oil or gas well is unique in itself. by itself (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,569). Therefore, riser systems that are suitable for one reservoir, one well, and the same environmental conditions are not suitable for other wells, even if they are located in close proximity to the first well.

As for localization and abduction, the underwater risers (free-standing or others) that are suitable for such use are unknown. In particular, until recently, no intervention was made to locate subsea leaks at any significant depth, such as a depth of 5,000 feet / 1,500 m or more. In particular, previously known localization attempts did not take into account the properties of the fluid obtained by combining hydrocarbons with sea water at pressures and temperatures at ocean depths that contribute to the formation of gas hydrates.

Thus, there remains a need to create stronger structures of the upper and lower nodes of the riser, both during normal production and during periods of localization and abstraction (discharge).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides marine underwater kits, as well as methods for their manufacture, installation and use, which can reduce or eliminate the disadvantages of previously known marine underwater kits.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit for connecting an underwater riser with mooring means on the seabed and with an underwater fluid source of hydrocarbons, which comprises a generally cylindrical element having a longitudinal channel, a lower end, an upper end and a generally external cylindrical surface, wherein the specified element contains inlets of sufficient size, extending from the outer surface into the channel and allowing the flow of hydrocarbons from the source of hydrocarbons, so the same as the flow of functional fluid, at least one of the inlets is fluidly connected to the valve assembly of the production wing, the upper end of the element containing a profile suitable for fluid connection with an underwater riser, and the lower end of the element contains a connector suitable for connecting with mooring means on the seabed.

In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical element comprises an underwater wellhead body, the lower end of which is modified by attaching an adapter sleeve, the upper end of the underwater wellhead body being fluidly connected to an external extension connector, wherein the extension connector fluidly connects the underwater wellhead housing to a stressed articulation of the riser.

In some embodiments, the underwater wellhead housing comprises an inner

- 1 026518 sealing profile, which allows you to create a seal with an internal extension connector, while the internal extension connector fluidly connects the internal underwater riser with the internal sealing profile of the underwater wellhead. In some embodiments, the internal extension connector comprises a bow seal that is sealed into the seal profile of the underwater wellhead, wherein the bow seal provides constant pressure between the inner duct in the inner riser and the annular gap between the inner riser and, mainly, the concentric outer riser . In some embodiments, the internal extension connector can be snapped onto both the underwater wellhead housing and the riser articulation, which creates a preload connection between the underwater wellhead housing and the internal and external extension connectors. In some embodiments, the implementation of the latches (clamps) contain teeth (teeth).

In some embodiments, an external connector is provided that snaps an internal extension connector onto the underwater wellhead housing.

In other kits, the valve assembly of the production wing is fluidly coupled to the underwater source through one or more underwater flexible pipelines.

In other other sets, the stressed joint of the riser is in turn fluidly connected to the external riser.

In other sets, the adapter sleeve ends with a first end forging with an eye, which serves as a mounting point for a free-standing riser.

Other other kits include valves controlled by KOU (using an underwater remotely controlled apparatus) to regulate the flow through the internal duct in the internal riser and through the annular gap between the internal riser and, mainly, the concentric external riser.

Other other kits include one or more pressure and / or temperature sensors.

Other other kits provide one or more hot-cut channels for interfering with the work and / or for routine maintenance with the help of the KOU.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the generally cylindrical element comprises a forged metal of increased strength. In these embodiments, two inlets may be provided connected to a corresponding valve assembly of the production wing, and a third hole (channel) containing an adapter suitable for connecting a source of functional fluid, such as a flow providing fluid or other fluid. The adapter may contain one or more valves controlled by KOU.

In some embodiments, two or more inlets are provided connected to a corresponding valve assembly of the production wing, and dual clamp supports are provided to support respective dual submarine connectors, each of which is fluidly coupled to a high pressure steel stamped member through a corresponding crank block moreover, each valve assembly of the production wing contains at least one valve controlled by KOU.

In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical element comprises a third channel suitable for connecting an annular gap ventilation adapter, wherein the annular gap adapter is connected to the third channel of the high-strength steel stamped element through a third crank block, while the annular gap ventilation adapter provides fluid connection to a source of functional fluid, for example, a fluid providing a stream or other fluid. In some embodiments, the annular gap ventilation adapter comprises one or more KOC-controlled valves.

In some embodiments, each production wing valve assembly comprises a bent block connector connecting the production wing valve assembly to a metal forging, at least one KOC-controlled valve connected to the bent block, and an underwater connector for connecting to the underwater flex, moreover, the cranked block, controlled by the KOU valve and the underwater connector are fluidly connected by means of central channels allowing fluid communication from the underwater flexibly of the pipeline to the longitudinal channel of the metal forgings.

In some embodiments, an extension ring is provided having an external threaded portion for mating with threads on the inner surface of the metal forgings and an internal threaded portion for mating with threads on the inner surface of the casing.

In other embodiments, the implementation of the stamped from high strength steel element further has an inner surface, at least a portion of which has a thread for threaded connection with a conjugated thread on the extension ring, and the extension ring contains at least one section of the internal thread that is mated to the thread section on internal riser, and further comprises a sealing element made of Inconel or other corrosion-resistant metal.

- 2 026518

In some embodiments, a hot tapping assembly is provided for pumping a functional fluid, the hot tapping assembly allows for a lower flow of functional fluid than is possible through an annular gap ventilation adapter.

In other embodiments, the implementation of the generally cylindrical element comprises a high-strength steel stamped inlet drum, which is fluidly connected to an 8-shaped assembly fluidly connected to the lower flexible conduit, while the inlet drum also contains a connector that allows connection with a source of functional fluid. In other embodiments, the 8-shaped assembly comprises an underwater ΑΡΙ flange connected in series with the coil for suspension of the elevator column, with an underwater high pressure connector, with another underwater ΑΡΙ flange and with a bend limiter.

In other embodiments, the intake drum comprises an inner surface adapted to receive and fluidly couple with an internal extension connector sitting on the inner surface of the intake drum, wherein the intake drum further comprises a locking mechanism that allows the removable connection of the internal extension connector to the intake drum, while the O-ring creates a tight seal between the outer surface of the internal extension connector I and the inner surface of the intake drum.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable for use as an underwater lower riser assembly that includes an underwater wellhead housing having a lower end and an upper end, the lower end being modified by fluidly and mechanically attaching the adapter sleeve thereto, this transition sleeve, in turn, fluidly and mechanically connected to the lower forging, and the lower forging contains inlet openings of a sufficient size to allow the flow of flu a production fluid or localization fluids and a flow providing fluid, wherein at least one of the openings is connected to a flow providing fluid source and at least one other inlet fluid is connected to a production wing valve assembly, the upper end of the underwater wellhead body being fluidly connected with an external extension connector, wherein the extension connector fluidly connects the housing of the underwater wellhead with the tensioned joint of the riser, the housing of the underwater wellhead has an internal a sealing profile that allows you to create a seal with an internal extension connector, while the internal extension connector fluidly connects the internal underwater riser with the internal sealing profile of the underwater wellhead, and the internal extension connector has a nose seal that is sealed into the internal sealing profile of the underwater wellhead this seal of the bow ensures a constant pressure between the inner duct in the inner riser and the annular the gap between the internal riser and mainly the concentric external riser, while the internal extension connector is latched both on the underwater wellhead housing and on the tensioned joint of the riser, which creates a structural connection with a preload between the underwater wellhead housing and the internal and external extension connectors

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable for use as an underwater lower riser assembly, which comprises a generally cylindrical forged metal of increased strength, which comprises a longitudinal channel, lower end, upper end, generally cylindrical outer surface and inlet openings of a sufficient size to allow the flow of production fluid or localization fluids, wherein at least one of the openings is connected to a source of fluid providing flow, and at least one other inlet is fluidly connected to the valve assembly of the production wing, the upper end of the metal forgings containing a profile suitable for fluid connection with an external underwater riser, and the lower end of the metal forgings contains a connector suitable for connection with mooring means on the seabed, the third hole is suitable (suitable) for connecting the ventilation adapter of the annular gap, and the ventilation adapter of the annular gap contains one or more valves pans controlled by a remotely controlled underwater vehicle (KOU), and an extension ring is provided having an external threaded portion for mating with threads on the inner surface of the metal forgings and an internal threaded portion for mating with threads on the inner surface of the casing.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable for use as an underwater lower riser assembly which comprises a high-strength steel stamped, mainly cylindrical inlet drum, which is fluidly connected to an 8-shaped assembly, the 8-shaped assembly fluidly connected to the bottom

- 3 026518 flexible pipe, while the inlet drum also contains a connector that allows you to connect to a source of functional fluid;

moreover, the δ-shaped assembly contains an underwater ΑΡΙ flange connected in series with the coil for suspension of the elevator column, with an underwater high pressure connector, with another underwater ΑΡΙ flange and with a bend limiter;

wherein the inlet drum comprises an inner surface adapted to receive the internal extension connector and fluid connection with the internal extension connector sitting on the inner surface of the intake drum, wherein the intake drum further comprises a locking mechanism that allows the removable connection of the internal extension connector to the intake drum while the O-ring creates a tight seal between the outer surface of the inner nadstavnoe about the connector and the inner surface of the intake drum.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit for connecting an underwater riser to an underwater buoyancy device and to a surface structure, which comprises a generally cylindrical element having a longitudinal channel, a lower end, an upper end and a generally external cylindrical surface, said the element contains exhaust openings of sufficient size extending from the channel to the generally outer cylindrical surface to allow the flow of hydrocarbons from the riser, and contains at least one opening permitting the flow of the functional fluid into the longitudinal channel, wherein at least one of the outlet openings is fluidly connected to the valve assembly of the production wing for fluidly connecting the element to the surface structure using an underwater flexible conduit, the upper end of the element containing a connector suitable for connection to an underwater buoyancy device, and the lower end of the element contains a profile suitable for fluid connection with the riser.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the generally cylindrical element comprises a drill pipe drum adapter having a first end fluidly connected to the head of the tubing string, and the head of the tubing string containing one or more outlets, while the head of the tubing string is connected to the head of the casing string having an attached a liner joint (for example, welded), the head of the casing string also containing one or more openings for the inlet of the fluid to ensure flow, and one and whether there are several valve assemblies of the production wing fluidly connected to the corresponding outlet openings.

In some embodiments of this aspect, the articulation of the liner is fluidly coupled to an external concentric riser.

In some embodiments, at least one of the valve blocks of the production wing fluidly connects the outlet to the collection vessel through a flexible conduit.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the kit includes an adjustable suspension of the elevator column, fluidly connecting the inner riser to the head of the elevator column.

In other embodiments of this aspect, the production wing valve assembly comprises first and second flow controllers for adjusting flow in the channel of the internal riser and in the annular gap between the internal riser and the external riser.

In some other embodiments, the production wing valve assembly includes at least one emergency stop valve (ΕδΌ valve) selected from the group consisting of one hydraulically controlled ΕδΌ, one electrically controlled ΕδΌ, and one управлениемδΌ sec. electric control.

In some other embodiments, the implementation of the valve assembly of the production wing contains one or more channels for hot inserts KOU, allowing the functional fluid to flow into the inner riser and into the annular gap between the inner riser and the outer riser. In some embodiments, the functional fluid is a flow fluid selected from the group consisting of nitrogen or another gas phase, heated seawater or other water, or organic chemicals. In some embodiments, the implementation of the fluid providing the stream mainly contains nitrogen.

In some embodiments, the drill pipe drum adapter is connected to the adapter flange with an earring sealed at its upper end to an end forging eyelet serving as a point of attachment of the kit to an underwater buoyancy assembly located close to the surface.

In other embodiments of this aspect of the present invention, the generally cylindrical element comprises an exhaust drum having an upper end and a lower end, an eye flange connected to an upper end of the exhaust drum, and a suspension coil connected to the lower end of the exhaust drum, the exhaust drum and suspension coil form a longitudinal channel.

In some of these embodiments, the tap drum comprises a second channel, mainly perpendicular to the longitudinal channel and fluidly connecting the longitudinal channel to one

- 4 026518 from valve assemblies of the production wing through one of the outlet openings.

In some other embodiments, the production wing valve assembly comprises an 8-shaped pipeline and two emergency stop valves (two Ε8Ό valves) fluidly connected linearly with the 8-shaped pipeline, one of the Ε8Ό valves being hydraulically controlled and the other Ε8Ό valve electronically controlled.

In some other embodiments, the coil for suspension includes a third channel, mainly perpendicular to the longitudinal channel and fluidly connecting the annular gap formed by the coil for suspension and articulation of the inner riser, with the valve access unit in the annular gap. The valve access node in the annular gap may contain one or more valves controlled by KOU. The valve access node in the annular gap may be fluidly connected to a source of functional fluid.

In some embodiments, a riser clamp assembly is provided to interface with and articulate the inner riser and to hold it within the exhaust drum. The riser clamp assembly may include a retaining ring and a T-ring flip.

In some embodiments, a dual O-ring and wire holder assembly is mounted on the inner surface of the exhaust drum to create a dual fluid seal between the annular gap and the longitudinal channel.

In some embodiments, the upper riser assembly (IKA) comprises a production channel outlet drum fluidly and mechanically connected to a mainly vertical pipe and to an elevator column, the elevator column, in turn, being fluidly connected to a bend stop through an underwater ΑΡΙ flange, an underwater connector high pressure, another underwater ΑΡΙ flange connection and, possibly, through a quick disconnect underwater connector (ECO). The bend limiter is mechanically connected to the upper underwater flexible conduit, which runs in a loop with a sag to the surface collection vessel, while the mainly vertical conduit is fluidly connected in series with the adapter, which, in turn, is fluidly connected to the suspension coil, with a ΑΡΙ flange, with the casing head through another ΑΡΙ flange, with a liner joint welded to the casing head, and with an external riser, through a threaded connection in the liner joint, the tap drum holds a flange with an earring, allowing connection with an underwater buoyancy device.

In some embodiments, the IKA further comprises a Ε8Ό valve controlled by KOU fluidly coupled to the pipeline section.

In some embodiments, the ICA further comprises a support bracket that supports the elevator column at an angle σ relative to the pipeline, and also supports a curved shield, which is a mechanical barrier between the elevator column and the pipeline, with the angle σ ranging from approximately 0 to 180 °.

In some embodiments, the ICA further comprises a connection to a suspension coil for attaching an 8-pipe elbow to supply heated water to the suspension coil from a surface vessel.

In some embodiments, the 8-shaped pipe elbow comprises, in sequence from a suspension coil, a ΑΡΙ flange, a piping section, an underwater high pressure connector, an underwater итель connector and a ΑΡΙ flange, and a bend stop.

In some embodiments, the inner riser is located inside the adapter, the suspension coil and the casing head, thereby creating an annular gap between the inner surface of the suspension coil and the inner riser.

In some embodiments, the ICA comprises a pair of O-rings that seal the inner riser in the adapter, and one or more slots that are wedged between the inner beveled surface of the suspension coil and the inner riser, so that they firmly hold the inner riser in the suspension coil.

In some embodiments, the ICA further comprises components allowing circulation of a functional fluid, such as heated water, through an annular gap.

In other embodiments, the ICA also comprises a retraction drum fluidly coupled to the suspension coil, the suspension coil, in turn, being fluidly connected to the conical stressed joint of the riser.

In other other embodiments, the ICA further comprises an earring and a chain safety harness allowing the ICA to be mechanically connected to an almost surface buoyancy device.

In some other embodiments, the first cranked block comprises an inner channel that intersects with the channel in the retraction drum and is mainly perpendicular thereto, a second cranked block having an inner channel that is also mainly perpendicular to the retraction drum, but which does not intersect with the channel in the exhaust drum, and the 8-shaped pipeline fluidly connected to the first elbow block and provides a flow for hydrocarbons in combination with the channel of the first elbow atogo block. In some cases, the ICA contains the first and second emergency stop valves in a δ-shaped pipe, the δ-shaped pipe being fluidly connected to an underwater connector, which, in turn, is fluidly connected to an underwater flexible pipe.

In other embodiments, the implementation of the kit further comprises a bleed valve in the δ-shaped pipe, allowing you to lock the ICL, divert the contents of the δ-shaped pipe and lift the underwater flexible pipe.

In some embodiments, components that allow the functional fluid to circulate through the annular gap include an underwater connector, a pipeline, and one or more valves in the pipeline, the pipeline fluidly connected to a suspension coil.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable for use as an underwater upper riser assembly that includes a drill pipe drum adapter fluidly connected at a first end to an elevator column head, the elevator column head comprising one or more outlets, wherein the head of the elevator string is connected to the head of the casing string having a liner joint attached thereto, the casing string head also comprising one or several openings for the fluid inlet for the flow, the articulation of the liner fluidly connected to the external concentric riser, the adjustable suspension of the lift column, fluidly connecting the internal riser to the head of the lift column, with the formation of an annular gap between the internal riser and the external concentric riser, valve block of the production wing, fluid connected to one of the outlet openings, wherein the valve assembly of the production wing comprises first and second flow controllers for adjusting the flow in inside the riser and in the annular gap, and a hydraulically controlled emergency stop valve and an electrically operated emergency stop valve, and wherein the production wing valve assembly contains one or more channels for KOC hot taps allowing the flow fluid to flow into the inner riser and / or ring gap.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable for use as an underwater upper riser assembly that includes an exhaust drum having an upper end and a lower end, wherein a flange with an eye is connected to the upper end and a suspension coil is connected to the lower end, moreover, the tap drum and the coil for suspension form a longitudinal channel, and the tap drum contains a second channel, mainly perpendicular to the longitudinal channel and fluidly connecting the longitudinal channel to the specified production wing assembly through one of the outlet openings of the exhaust drum, the valve assembly of the production wing contains a δ-shaped pipe and two emergency stop valves (two ΕδΌ valves) fluidly connected linearly to the δ-shaped pipe, and one of the ΕδΌ valves has a hydraulic control, and the other ΕδΌ valve has electronic control, and the coil for suspension contains a third channel, mainly perpendicular to the longitudinal channel and fluidly connecting the annular gap formed by the coil For the suspension and articulation of the inner riser, with the valve access unit in the annular gap, while the valve access unit in the annular gap contains one or more valves controlled by KOU, the riser clamp assembly, designed to interface with the articulation of the internal riser with the valve assembly and for holding it inside the exhaust drum, and the riser clamp assembly comprises a snap ring and a slip with T-seals, and a double ring seal assembly and a wire holder mounted on the inner surface ti drum outlet to create a double fluid seal between the annulus and the longitudinal bore.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit suitable for use as an underwater upper riser assembly that comprises a production channel exhaust drum fluidly and mechanically connected to a mainly vertical pipe and to an elevator column, the elevator column, in turn, fluidly connected to the bend limiter through an underwater ΑΡΙ flange, an underwater high pressure connector, another underwater ΑΡΙ flange connection and, possibly, through the CIS, an underwater connection besides, the bending limiter is connected to the upper underwater flexible conduit, which runs in a loop with a sag to the surface structure, while, mainly, the vertical conduit is fluidly connected in series with the adapter, which, in turn, is fluidly connected to the suspension coil through ΑΡΙ flange, with the casing head through another ΑΡΙ flange, with a shank joint welded to the casing head, and with an external riser through a threaded connection in the shank joint, the soda drain drum Holds a flange with an earring that allows you to connect to the underwater

- 6 026518 device for ensuring buoyancy;

ΕδΌ valve controlled by KOU, fluidly connected to the pipeline section; a support bracket that supports the elevator column at an angle σ relative to the pipeline, and also supports a curved shield, which is a mechanical barrier between the elevator column and the pipeline, the angle σ being in the range of approximately from 0 to 180 °;

connection with a suspension coil for attaching a δ-shaped pipe elbow for supplying heated water to the suspension coil from a surface vessel, the δ-shaped pipe elbow comprising, in sequence starting from the suspension coil, ΑΡΙ a flange, a pipe section, underwater high pressure connector, underwater ΑΡΙ connector and ΑΡΙ flange, and bend limiter;

moreover, the inner riser is located inside the adapter, the coil for the suspension and the head of the casing string, thereby creating an annular gap between the inner surface of the coil for the suspension and the inner riser; and a pair of O-rings that seal the inner riser in the adapter, and one or more slips that are stuck between the inner beveled surface of the suspension coil and the inner riser, so that they firmly secure the inner riser in the suspension coil.

In some embodiments, each of the underwater flexible pipelines comprises a volumetric (1a / y \ aus) type flexible connector with distributed buoyancy modules connected to the underwater flex, randomly or not accidentally connected between the base of the free-standing riser and the underwater manifold on the seabed, with the manifold fluidly associated with an underwater source or sources.

In some embodiments, an internal extension connector is provided that fluidly connects the internal riser to the bKA, the internal extension connector comprising a nose seal (nose seal), and in some embodiments, an inconel nose seal that is sealed (with seal) is inserted into the underwater profile wellhead (wellhead), and the specified connector is also latched with the help of teeth both on the underwater wellhead and on the articulated joint to create Look for a pre-loaded structural connection between the underwater wellhead and the internal and external extension connectors. In some embodiments, the implementation also provides an additional latch of the external connector, which latches the internal add-on connector on the underwater wellhead. The seal of the bow ensures a constant pressure between the internal duct in the internal riser and the annular gap between the internal and external risers.

Some embodiments include embodiments that comprise an ICA production wing valve assembly that includes emergency shutdown valves with both hydraulic and manual control.

Some embodiments include embodiments in which the valve assembly of the ICA production wing contains one or more hot-cut channels of the underwater remotely controlled vehicle (KOC), which allow the functional fluid to be pumped into the inner riser and / or into the annular gap. Examples of suitable functional fluids include fluids such as a gaseous medium, heated seawater or other water, or organic chemicals such as methanol and the like. The gaseous medium can be selected from the group consisting of nitrogen of various degrees of purity, such as nitrogen enriched air, noble gases such as argon, xenon, etc., carbon dioxide, and combinations thereof. Hot seawater or other water is pumped into the annular gap and released from it through the ventilation adapter of the annular gap and, similarly, methanol is pumped into the annular gap and released from it through the ventilation adapter. Some hydrate inhibition fluids contain liquid chemicals selected from the group consisting of alcohols and glycols. The fluid supplying fluid may mainly contain nitrogen, which means that the gas medium contains nitrogen and may contain impurities that do not contribute to hydrate formation and do not form hydrates per se, and mainly does not contain impurities that contribute to hydrate formation or themselves hydrates form themselves.

In some embodiments, external wet insulation is provided on at least a large portion of the external surface of one or more wellheads, production wing valves, casing heads, elevator heads, metal forgings, tap drums, suspension coils, and the like. In some embodiments, the wet insulation comprises a polymeric material. The polymeric material may have many layers of polypropylene.

Some embodiments of ICA and LKA contain adapters that allow a functional fluid, such as a fluid to provide flow, to flow into the inner riser and / or into the annular spaces between the risers, and into the channels of the IKA and LKA. Some embodiments comprise adapters that allow hydrate formation inhibition fluid to flow into these spaces. Some embodiments include adapters allowing hydrate correction fluid

- 7 026518 to flow into these spaces. Some embodiments include adapters that allow all such fluids to flow into said spaces. After entering the inner riser and / or into the annular space, the flow providing fluid, the hydrate formation inhibition fluid and / or the hydrate correction fluid can be standing (stagnant) or circulating, however, it should be borne in mind that mass transfer and heat transfer are improved during fluid circulation.

Some other embodiments include those in which at least some of the components of LKA and / or IKA can be made of high strength steel, however, the use of steel is optional and other metals can be used instead. The term high-strength steel as used here includes such grades of steel as P-110, C110, Ts-125 and S-125, and titanium steels.

The kits described here can be used with a single riser or with concentric riser systems. The kits described here can be used in developments using a wet Christmas tree, including those that use floating production, storage and disposal structures (ΡΡδΟ) or other floating production systems (PP§), including (but not limited to) semi-submersible platforms. The kits described here can also be used in development using a dry Christmas tree, including those that use elastic tower-type bases, semi-submersible sea bases (platforms) with vertical tension anchor fastening (ТРРк), masts or other PP8. The kits described here can also be used in the so-called hybrid designs (containing TBP or masts with ΡΡ8Ο or PP§). The kits described here can be used with risers having tension created using air can systems, hydropneumatic tensioners, or combinations thereof.

The above and other characteristics of the systems, devices and methods in accordance with the present invention will be more clear from the following detailed description, given with reference to the accompanying drawings. The possibilities of solving the problems in accordance with the present invention and to obtain other desirable characteristics will be explained in the following description with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

In FIG. 1 and 1B are shown schematically, and in FIG. 1A is a detailed sectional view of one embodiment of a riser system in which kits in accordance with the present invention may be used.

In FIG. 2A and 2B are schematic side views, respectively, of a cross section of a general embodiment of a lower riser assembly in accordance with the present invention.

In FIG. 3A-3O show various views, including some in section, of another embodiment of a lower riser assembly in accordance with the present invention.

In FIG. 4A is a perspective view of FIG. 4B shows a cross section and FIG. 4C is a more detailed cross-section of a portion of the lower riser assembly in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

In FIG. 5A and B are a schematic perspective view of another lower riser assembly in accordance with the present invention, and FIG. 5C is a schematic perspective view of an internal component that can be used in the lower riser assembly shown in FIG. 5A and 5B. In FIG. 5Ό and 5E show cross sections, and in FIG. 50 is a plan view of the lower riser assembly of FIG. 5A and 5B. In FIG. 5P schematically shows a detailed view of a portion of the lower riser assembly shown in FIG. 5E.

In FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of conventionally cut out portions of a general embodiment of an upper riser assembly in accordance with the present invention.

In FIG. 6A-60 show various views, including some in section, of another embodiment of the upper riser assembly in accordance with the present invention.

In FIG. 6H is a schematic perspective view, and FIG. 61 and 61 are cross-sections of part of this embodiment of the upper riser assembly shown in FIG. 6. In FIG. 6K is a perspective view of a sealed test channel.

In FIG. 7A and 7B are schematic perspective views of another embodiment of an upper riser assembly in accordance with the present invention.

In FIG. 7C is a side view; FIG. 7Ό shows a cross section of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A and B, and in FIG. 7E is a detailed cross-sectional view of part of this embodiment.

In FIG. 8A is a schematic side view of another embodiment of the upper riser assembly (IKA), and FIG. 8B is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of this ICA.

In FIG. 8C is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a lower riser assembly (LSC) in accordance with the present invention, and FIG. 8Ό shows a section through a portion of this bKA.

It should be borne in mind that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily shown in real scale and that they show only typical embodiments in accordance with the present invention, so that they should not be construed as limiting the scope of patent claims in relation to

- 8 026518 of the present invention, since other equally effective embodiments are acceptable. In all the drawings, similar parts have the same reference numerals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, numerous details are set forth to better understand the methods, systems, and apparatus disclosed herein. However, it should be borne in mind that specialists in this field can implement these methods, systems and devices without these details, and that various variations or modifications of the described embodiments are possible. All US patent applications and US patents listed herein are fully incorporated by reference. In the event that there is a conflict between the definitions of terms in said patent publications and in the description of the present invention, the definition of terms in the description of the present invention prevails.

As already mentioned above, in accordance with the present invention, marine underwater kits are provided, as well as methods for their manufacture, installation and use, which can reduce or eliminate the disadvantages of previously known marine underwater kits.

The term “surface structure” as used herein means a surface vessel (located on the surface of the sea) or another structure that can function to receive one or more fluids from one or more free-standing risers. In some embodiments, the surface structure may also include equipment that allows the surface structure to perform one or more functions selected from the group consisting of storage, processing, and disposal of one or more fluids. As used herein, the term “removal” includes (but not limited to) flaring gaseous hydrocarbons. Suitable surface structures include (but are not limited to) one or more vessels; structures that can be partially immersed in water, so that they are semi-submersible structures; floating mining and storage structures (PP§ structures); floating storage and disposal structures (P§0 structures); floating structures for production, storage and disposal (PP8O structure); mobile offshore drilling structures, such as mobile offshore drilling rigs (MOOIK); Masts and semi-submersible sea bases (platforms) with vertical tension anchor fastening (ТЬРк), etc.

As used herein, the term subsea source includes (but is not limited to): 1) production sources such as subsea wellheads, subsea VORK, other subsea risers, subsea manifolds, subsea pipes and pipelines, subsea storage facilities, and the like, to extract, transport and / or store gas, liquids, or combinations thereof, including organic and inorganic materials; 2) underwater sources of localization of all types, including those having a leak or damaged underwater Vork, risers, manifolds, tanks, etc .; and 3) natural sources. Some embodiments of the system include embodiments in which the source of localization is a damaged underwater blowout preventer.

The term wellhead (wellhead) is well known in the field of drilling and production as a structure having a central channel and end connectors at both ends of a different nature, such as bushings, mandrels, teeth, etc., meeting the AP1 standards for strength and other parameters for wellheads, which is described in detail in specification 6A AR1. As used herein, the head of the elevator string and the head of the casing string are heads having relatively high strength, wherein the head of the tubing string is usually stronger than the head of the casing string, although not in all cases. The underwater wellhead may be an elevator head or a casing head, but typically a casing head or an even more robust design, given the difficult operating conditions underwater.

The terms providing a stream and providing a stream of fluid include providing a stream of existing hydrates, paraffins, asphaltenes and / or sludge, and / or preventing their formation, and these terms have a broader scope than the term inhibition of hydrate formation, which is used here exclusively for designations hydrate formation prevention. The term hydrate correction refers to the reduction or removal of hydrates that have already formed in a given ship, pipeline, or other equipment. The term functional fluid includes both flow providing fluids and fluids that allow performing additional or separate functions, for example, increasing corrosion resistance, adjusting the concentration of hydrogen ions (pH), adjusting pressure, adjusting density, etc .; for example, it can be fluids for killing a well.

The term used here is mainly vertical means the possibility of an angle of deviation from the vertical in the range of approximately from 0 to 45 °, or approximately from 0 to 20 °, or approximately from 0 to 5 °. As such, the term generally vertically has a wider scope than the term almost vertically, and this term is used to indicate the angle of the riser relative to the vertical.

In FIG. 1 and 1B are shown schematically, and in FIG. 1A is a detailed sectional view of one embodiment of an underwater riser system in which kits according to the invention may be used. It should be borne in mind that in various other systems of the underwater riser can also be successfully used kits in accordance with the present invention. A free-standing riser (P8K) 2 is shown located at an angle α relative to the vertical. The angle α can lie in the range from 0 to 90 °, from 0 to 45 °, or from 0 to 20 °, which is considered almost vertical. Another angle β is the angle between the vertical and the tangent to the flexible pipe 12 at the water surface 20. The angle β can lie in the range of approximately from 0 to 90 °, from 0 to 45 °, or from 0 to 20 °. The third angle, γ, which is the angle between the chain or other tether 58 (which may be vertical or non-vertical) and the end section of the flexible pipe 14 near the base of the P8K, can range from approximately 5 to 60 °, or approximately from 5 to 30 °. It is shown that the pile foundation 16 is submerged on the seabed 10, and a chain safety rope 58 connects the pile foundation 16 with the lower node 8 of the riser, as described in more detail below. An underwater pipe 14 fluidly connects the lower riser assembly 8 to a hydrocarbon source, and in this case, an underwater manifold 26. The upper riser assembly 6 fluidly connects the riser 2 to a flexible underwater pipeline 12, which, in turn, is fluidly connected to the surface vessel 32. The upper the riser assembly 6 in this embodiment is also connected to the primary and secondary air banks 18.

In FIG. 1A shows the relative location of the inner riser 60, the outer riser 70, the outer surface 62 of the inner riser 60, the outer surface 72 of the outer riser 70, the inner surface 74 of the outer riser 70, the annular gap 76, and the duct 64 in the inner riser 60. Solid insulation 80 in this embodiment the implementation is installed next to at least most of the outer surface 72 of the outer riser 70, and in some embodiments, solid insulation is installed next to the entire outer surface 72 of the outer riser 70. Electric Eski heated risers may optionally be used in some embodiments, although for operational reasons associated with emergency quick disconnection (DSP) or with the evacuation in the case of a hurricane, this embodiment is not very attractive. Electric heating greatly complicates the design of the DSP.

Circulation of hot water or other functional fluid used here in the annular gap and insulation on underwater manifolds and pressure pipes (including flexible underwater pipes 12 and 14, flexible bridges and δ-shaped elbows mentioned here), and connectors, in addition to a free-standing riser is preferred in some embodiments. The circulation can be continuous or intermittent. In some embodiments, the flow fluid may stagnate after filling the annular gap. The possibility of pumping or otherwise pumping one or more fluids to ensure flow into one or more receivers of hot plugs of KOC is another possibility, as well as the possibility of pumping or otherwise pumping nitrogen or another gas phase into the base of the riser or at the underwater manifold into flexible submarine pipelines, which allows you to enter the fluid to ensure flow under a real or potential, full or partial hydrate plug. In some embodiments, such as those shown in the drawings, the flow fluid may be pumped or otherwise pumped to various locations, for example, (but not limited to), to the bottom of the inner riser 60, to the bottom of the annular gap 76, to the base (under water) of the flexible pipe 14, into the upper part of the inner riser 60 and the annular gap 76 and into the upper flexible pipe 12.

In FIG. 1B also schematically shows the location of the tension control system 52 at ΡδΚ 2. The tension control system is typically located near the top of ΡδΚ 2, however, it can be located elsewhere along ΡδΚ 2, and may contain many tension control systems that are random or non-random are distributed along ΡδΚ 2. In FIG. 1B shows details of a current tension control system, in particular a connector 54 and a current tension control module 56.

Lower riser node (bk)

In FIG. 2A and 2B are schematic side views and a cross section, respectively, of a general embodiment of a lower riser assembly (LSC) in accordance with the present invention. LKA 8 comprises a generally cylindrical housing CB having an upper end 8IE and a lower end 8E and five joints C1, C2, C3, C4 and C5 in this embodiment. Compound C1 is a mechanical and fluid connection of the cylindrical housing of the CB with the riser 2. Compound C4 is the mechanical connection of the cylindrical housing of the CB with mooring facilities on the seabed (not shown) through a chain or other functional halyard 58. Compounds C2, C3 and C5 are mechanical and fluid connections of pipelines 8A, 8B, and 8C to the cylindrical housing CB through passages 8P in the cylindrical housing CB. The passages 8P go from the inner surface 8Ιδ to the outer surface 8Εδ of the cylindrical housing CB.

Pipelines 8A, 8B and 8C may, for example, be part of valve assemblies connected to subsea hydrocarbon sources, may be connections to sources of functional fluids,

- 10 026518 such as fluids providing flow, or connections to other underwater or surface equipment. Joints C2, C3 and C5 between openings 8P and pipelines 8A, 8B and 8C may be threaded joints, flange joints, welded joints, or other joints, and they may be the same or different in connection type, diameter and shape, depending on diameter and hole shapes 8P. For example, holes 8P may have a shape selected from the group that includes a groove, a slot, an oval, a rectangle, a triangle, a circle, and the like. Connection C1 may be a threaded, flanged, welded, or other connection, and may contain one or more teeth, collets, split rings, or other parts. In some embodiments, the LKA can be connected to manifolds and other equipment, for example, using flexible piping, with a radius of approach angle of 270 °.

Another embodiment of LKA is shown in various forms in FIG. 3A-3C. In FIG. 3A shows a front view of the LSA 8, which in this embodiment comprises an external extension connector 102 connected to the underwater wellhead 104 (as further explained with reference to FIGS. 4A-C) and an adapter (adapter sleeve) 105. The adapter 105 is welded to its the upper end in this embodiment to the base of the underwater wellhead 104, and at its lower end to the lower forgings 106 containing two machined flange joints 108A and 108B and an eye. The two machined flange joints 108A and 108B extend mainly perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis of the wellhead 104, adapter 105 and forgings 106, and the two machined flange joints 108A and 108B form the inlet channels LKA. The lower forging and eyelet are one common part 106 in this embodiment, and the adapter 105 is a separate part for welding the lower forging 106 with the underwater wellhead 104. The eyelet of the lower forgings 106 engages with an I-shaped connector 119 and a chain safety rope 58, which goes to the suction pile foundation 16 (not shown).

BKA 8 further comprises a KOC hot-cut panel 110 for controlling the external extension connector 102 when connecting to the underwater wellhead 104. The external extension connector 102 may be an extension connector for a sludge line or an ultra sludge line, which is manufactured by the following companies: CE Oy aib Sak, NoiChop. TX (previously this company was called Uslco): EMC Tespo1od1e8, 1ps, NooXi TX; and possibly other suppliers. One such add-on connector is described in US Pat. 7,537,057. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the known external extension connectors are designed with the understanding that when the estimated tension of the connector increases, the allowable bending moment decreases inversely. Specific curves for such load-bearing dependencies can be obtained from manufacturers.

Flange 111 connects the bend limiter 112 and the underwater flexible conduit 14 to the underwater high pressure stiff bending member 180, which has an inner profile 81 (see FIG. 3E), which allows fluidly connecting the underwater flexible conduit 14 to the b-shaped knee assembly 107 LKA. As shown schematically in FIG. 3E, the flexural stiffener 180 includes a flange connection 81 connecting the underwater flexible conduit 14 to the high pressure submarine connector 181, which can be used to make mechanical and fluid connections with the BKA duct 107B 8. The flexible flexural stiffener 180 can weaken the flange 81 so that the moment can be transmitted directly from the bend limiter 112 to the underwater high pressure connector 181, which extends from the upper end of the bending stiffener 180. The localization or production fluids flow upward through the subsea flexible conduit 14 and flange connection 81 to the socket assembly 116B (two socket assemblies 116A and B are provided in this embodiment) and additionally through the BKA production wing valve assembly 114B (two production wing valve assemblies 114A and B provided in this embodiment, see Fig. 3A).

As shown in FIG. 3A and 3E, each of the valve assemblies 114A and B of the LBK production wing contains corresponding crank blocks 109A and 109B and KOU-controlled manual shut-off valves 115A and 115B, as well as corresponding ducts 115C and 115Ό (Fig. 3E). Panels 150A and 150B of hot plug KOU can be provided, respectively, for monitoring temperature and pressure. The underwater clamp structural support 118 serves as a support for the underwater connectors 119A and 119B (can be purchased from Uesiug Zikkea, 1is., Trade name ORT1MA). A panel 121 of KOU hot cuts is provided with a support on the leaf of the bell assembly 116A, which contains sensors for monitoring pressure and / or temperature. Four swivel lifting rings 123 may also be provided on structural support a 118 in this embodiment.

In FIG. 3C shows in detail the hexagonal clamp bolts 94 welded at location 93 to the clamp bolt holding unit 95. Block 95 may also be welded at location 97 to the body of the subsea connector 119B. A similar design may be provided on the underwater connector 119A (not shown).

In FIG. 3Ό is a side view, and FIG. 3E shows a top view of LKA 8. The Z-shaped elbow 107 can rotate at a wide angle, which may be required when connecting the flexible pipe 14, as shown in a top view, but after attaching to the connector 119B, this movement may

- 11 026518 to be limited.

In FIG. 3P shows a section along the dotted line in FIG. 3E and shows some of the internal details of LKL 8, in particular, a localization fluid flow having a reference designation 113, a channel of a δ-shaped pipe 107B (in a connector 107A), a channel 116C, a channel 115C (through a valve 115B and a crank block 109B), and finally , a duct 64 through an internal extension connector 92 and an internal riser 62. In FIG. 3P also shows five locking collars 103 pre-installed in the underwater wellhead 104, the uppermost clamp securing the internal extension connector 92 in the underwater wellhead 104, as is further explained below with reference to FIG. 4A, B, and C. In some embodiments, one, two, three, or more collars 103 may be provided. FIG. 30 shows the position of the thermal insulation ΙΝδ in areas of LKA 8.

Further details of this embodiment of the LKA are shown in FIG. 4A, B, and C, where the use of two locking collars 704, 724 is explained. In addition to the previously shown details, in FIG. 4A, B, and C show a plurality of connector lockout indication rods 720 that can move up and down, and is shown when the external extension connector 102 is free or fully locked. One of the two secondary mechanical locking plates 702 is also shown (the other is not visible in FIG. 4A), as well as a pipe 110A for flowing the working fluid through the hot insert 110. The hot insert and pipe 110A, which passes through the NOV end cap (or through other external the channels in the connector 102) are parts of the upper active locking system 102A for the external extension connector 102. In this embodiment, the lower passive locking system 102P can also be used. Examples of the construction and operation of the upper active locking system 102A and the lower passive locking system 102P are given in US Pat. 6540024. In short, the upper active locking system 102A includes an inner sleeve 102C, an axial displacement hydraulic plunger 102Ό, and an upper locking element 102E, which may be a split ring, a collet, or a plurality of teeth located around a circle inside the chamber formed between the inner surface of the external extension connector 102 and the bottom of the plunger 102Ό.

Some details of the lower passive locking system 102P of the external extension connector 102, as well as some details of the internal extension connector 92 are shown schematically in section in FIG. 4C. Locking collars 704 and 724 are provided, and clamp 704 provides a locking force of about 2 million 1 _G (about 0.9 million Cd) in this embodiment. In FIG. 4C further illustrates the outer casing or sleeve 708 of the internal extension connector and the inner casing or mandrel 709. A set of 717 locking teeth is provided to snap the collar 704 onto the casing 104 of the underwater wellhead. Another set 901 of locking teeth may be provided to snap the external extension connector 102 onto the housing 104 of the underwater wellhead. The lower set of locking teeth 706 allows you to snap the sleeve 708 of the internal extension connector 92 on the clamp 704, and thus snap it onto the housing 104 of the underwater wellhead.

As shown in FIG. 4C, a similar set of upper locking teeth 740 allows the internal extension connector 92 to be snapped onto the tensioned joint 2P1B and, thus, to the external extension connector 102. The lower and upper sets of teeth allow secondary blocking of the riser at the underwater wellhead 104 and allow constant pressure at full engagement of the bow seal 92A if the external extension connector 102 is disconnected from the underwater wellhead 104 for any reason.

In FIG. 4C also shows the opening units 710, 711 and 715 and the seating surface 712 on the inside of the collar 704, for fitting the nose seal 92A of the internal extension connector. The opening unit 711 comprises a wedge 711A that allows forcing the teeth 717 into the set of internal mating grooves 717A of the wellhead body 104. The teeth 901 may be located inside the grooved window 902 in the external extension connector 102. In FIG. 4C further shows a wellhead gasket 716. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that one or more of the teeth described herein can be replaced with a slit ring, collet, or other functional equivalent.

The internal extension connector 92 has a nose seal 92A, for example of Inconel, which can seal the seating surfaces 712 of the collar 704. The internal extension connector 92 can snap into place using the teeth 706 on the locking collar 704 and on the tensioned joint 2P1B to create a preloaded structural connection between the underwater wellhead 104 and the internal and external add-on connectors 102 and 92 (in addition to snapping the external active connector at the wellhead so as to create redundancy). The nose seal 92A allows maintaining a constant pressure between the inner duct 64 and the annular gap 76, between the inner and outer struts 60, 70. Thus, as shown in FIG. 3P, oil and gas produced through the underwater flexible connector 14, through a passage bounded by the inner surface 113 of the connector 14, enter the valve assembly through the passages 107B and 116C, and flow through the elbow 109B and the forging 106. In this embodiment

- 12 026518 when the nose seal 92A is engaged, the produced fluids flow upward only through the inner riser 60, through the passage 64 and into the ICA, and ultimately through the flexible pipe 12 to the localization vessel 32.

Another embodiment of the lower riser assembly is shown schematically in FIG. 5A-5C. In this embodiment, a mainly cylindrical element 220 is provided, which is a stamped (forged) element of high strength steel. The element 220 is fluidly connected to the pipe 221 of the production riser through the lower bypass joint 222 and the threaded connector 242. The flange 223 with the eye allows connecting the element 220 with a suction pile unit at the bottom of the sea. The dual clamping supports 224A and 224B allow the corresponding underwater connectors 225A and 225B to be supported. Two production wings contain valve assemblies 226A and 226B, each of which is fluidly connected to element 220 through corresponding cranked blocks 230A and 230B. Each assembly 226A and 226B may comprise a valve 227A or 227B, respectively, controlled by a COU. An additional assembly 228 may be provided that is fluidly coupled to the element 220 through an elbow block 229. The assembly 228 allows fluid connections to be made to a source of a functional fluid, such as a flow fluid or other fluid. In this embodiment, the crank block 229 may be smaller than the elbows 230A and 230B, however, this is not necessary. A different hot plug assembly 231 may be provided to pump the functional fluid. In this embodiment, the hot plug assembly 231 may provide a lower flow rate of the functional fluid than through the assembly 228, however, this is not true for all embodiments. A smaller diameter pipe 241 (FIG. 5P) allows for the delivery of a functional fluid.

In FIG. 5C shows a perspective view of an elevator column 232 that is connected to the inner surface of the element 220. The elevator column 232 includes an extension ring 233 and a seal element 234, which may be a δ-type seal element. Seal member 234 may be made of inconel or other corrosion resistant metal. As further schematically shown in FIG. 5Ό and 5E, the extension ring 233 comprises at least one portion of the internal thread 235 mating with the threaded portion on the elevator column 232. The extension ring 233 also includes at least one portion of the external thread 236 mating with the threaded portion on the inner surface of the member 220. In FIG. 5E shows dual linear valves controlled by KOU 237A and 237B for pumping a functional fluid (or for circulating outwardly) that are inserted into an annular gap ventilation adapter 228 having an annular passage 238 into the annular gap between the lift column 232 and the element 220 and the lower bypass joint 222. Flange connection 239 or other connection may be provided for this purpose. Each valve block 226 of the production wing contains a connector 240 (240A and B), which allows connection to underwater flexible pipelines, as shown in top view in FIG. 50. Connectors 240A and 240V may be connectors of the trademark ORT1MA, manufactured by UesuG Ziekea, 1ps.

In FIG. 8C is a side view of another bKA assembly in accordance with the present invention. This embodiment LKA may comprise an inlet drum 920 stamped from high strength steel, a connector 921 and a δ-shaped bend 944, an underwater AP1 flange 945, a pipe drum 946, an underwater high pressure connector 180, another underwater AP1 flange 111, a bend stopper 112 and an underwater a flexible conduit 14 that can be connected to an underwater hydrocarbon source (not shown). Another connector 947 on the inlet drum 920 allows connection to a source of functional fluid.

In FIG. 8Ό are shown in section along the line 8Ό-8Ό in FIG. 8C, details of this embodiment LKA illustrating an internal add-on connector 92 sitting in the inner surface of the inlet drum 920. The locking mechanism 930 allows removable connection of the internal add-in connector 92 to the inlet drum, while the O-ring 928 creates a tight seal between the channel of the internal extension connector 92 and the annular gap 76. The flexible joint 2IV can be connected to the inlet drum in a known manner, for example, using a discharge carving rings, collets, or teeth, such as those described herein for other embodiments.

Upper riser assembly (ϋΚΑ)

In FIG. 6 is a schematic side view, with conventionally cut out portions, of a general embodiment of the upper riser assembly 6 in accordance with the present invention. The upper riser assembly (ϋΚΑ) 6 is a generally cylindrical element that has an upper end 6IE, a lower end 6E and an inner channel 61B. ICA 6 may have a common channel with the riser 70, and may also have several internal channels. Pipelines 6A and 6B may be fluidly connected to the ICA via the 6OT discharge channels, and pipe 6A is fluidly connected to the inner channel of the inner riser 60, while pipeline 6B is fluidly connected to the annular space formed by the inner channel 61B and the inner riser 60. The upper end of the 6A ICA can be connected to an almost surface buoyancy device (not shown) through a chain safety harness or other connector 127.

- 13 026518

In FIG. 6L-6C show various views, some in section, of another embodiment of the upper riser assembly in accordance with the present invention. In FIG. 6H is a schematic perspective view, and FIG. 61 and 61 are cross-sections of part of this embodiment of the upper riser assembly shown in FIG. 6. In FIG. 6K is a perspective view of a sealed test channel. ICA 6 in accordance with this embodiment comprises an elevator head 122 that can provide fluid and mechanical connections between the casing head and liner articulation 124 (manufactured by CE & Sak, Noikloy, Texak) and the drill pipe adapter 120. The drill pipe drum adapter 120 and the head 122 of the lift string can be mechanically connected using a plurality of shutoff nodes 120A, the head 122 of the lift string and the head 124 of the casing string can also be mechanically connected using the second set of shutoff nodes 122B. The locking nodes 120A and 122B may be the same or different, and may be locking screw nodes or other known locking nodes. One non-limiting example of a locking screw assembly is given in US Pat. 4,606,557. This embodiment also includes an adapter flange 126 with an earring, an end forging 128 with an eye, and an I-link 125, which allows connection to the hinge chain 127. All of these individual elements (with the exception of the earring flange) are manufactured by CE Θίΐ & Sack.

The elevator column head 122 can be machined to receive a flange connection of 5-1 / 8 10K ΑΡΙ so that the production wing valve assembly 136 with one hydraulically operated emergency stop valve 137B (5 inches (13 cm), 10,000 ρκί (70 MPa), and with one emergency shutdown valve 10,000 ρκί (69 MPa) controllable with KOU. In some embodiments, a panel 139 with a KOU hot insert channel for monitoring pressure and temperature can be provided, as well as a KOU panel 152 for injection of nitrogen (or other fluid) and in the annular gap of the riser.In this embodiment, a pipe 158 may be provided for injecting nitrogen or other gaseous medium into the annular gap, as well as pressure and temperature measuring channels and exhaust channels (through the KOU access panel 153) between the valves on the flow path A panel 152 of KOU rupture disk 156 may also be provided.One or more of the KOU hot tapping channels and pressure gauges between two ΕδΌ valves in the ICA may be provided to circulate the functional fluid backward through the flexible pipes conductor 12 to the surface structure, and for selecting the line pressure if necessary (while keeping the first valve closed). An arm 155 may be provided for mounting the composite hose. Several selection channels 130 may be provided in the head 122 of the elevator string (see FIG. 6A), as well as multiple channels 135 for interfering with well operation.

As shown in FIG. 6B, flange connection 133 allows the connection of a high pressure subsea connector 184 to a bend limiter 134. An opening drum 138 and a bend limiter adapter 157 are also provided. A lifting eye 129A may be provided for lifting the production wing valve assembly 136, but not when the underwater flex 12 is attached.

In FIG. 6Ό shows a side view of the ICA 6, and in FIG. 6E shows a section along line AA in FIG. 6Ό. As shown in FIG. 6E, in this embodiment, an adjustable IKA clamp 159 is provided. The localization fluid path is also shown, first upward through channel 64, then laterally through passage 137Ό in crankshaft block 137A and at connection 132, then downward through passage 137C in valve 137B and through passage 131A in valve 131, and finally from the IR through the duct 184B in the underwater connector 184A, which is connected to the flexible pipe 12 through the flange 184C, and the channel 12A through the flexible pipe 12 to the vessel 32 localization on the sea surface in this embodiment.

In FIG. 6P is a plan view of an ICA 6 illustrating in more detail the previously mentioned characteristics. Further details of this embodiment of the ICA are shown in FIG. 6H-6K. Shown is the nitrogen injection channel 158A, as well as the lower portion 122A of the elevator head 122, which contains a sealed test channel 718. A sealing ring 720 is also shown between the elevator string head 122 and the casing head 124; seal 722 metal to metal; a rotation tool profile 724, a transition connection 726, and a loaded collar support ring 728, as well as a disconnector 730. FIG. 61 further shows an ICA forging 734 having channels 732 into which sensors for measuring pressure and temperature can be inserted. Finally, an o-ring 736 is shown installed between the drill pipe drum adapter 120 and the elevator string head 122. In FIG. 6H and 6Ι show a casing head and an articulation of a liner 124, a liner that includes a lower casing head portion 124A and a liner articulation 124B welded at location 124C to a lower casing head portion 124A.

In FIG. 6C is a schematic perspective view of ICA 6 illustrating the possible placement of the insulating material ΙΝδ around valves 137B and 131, as well as around associated pipes.

In FIG. 7A and 7B schematically show a front view in perspective and a rear view in perspective of another embodiment of an upper riser assembly (ICA) in accordance with the present invention, and in FIG. 7C is a side view of this embodiment. In FIG. 7Ό is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 7A and 7B; and in FIG. 7E is a detailed cross-sectional view of a portion of the cross-section shown in FIG. 7Ό. This embodiment of the ICA is different from the embodiment of the ICA shown in FIG. 6A-6K, primarily due to the fact that this embodiment allows the circulation of a functional fluid, such as heated water, through an annular gap. The two large wing valves and large diameter passages available in previous ICA embodiments have been replaced here with a functional KOU hot insert to pump a functional fluid such as nitrogen. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A-7E, another flexible conduit (not shown for simplicity) can be connected to the ICA via an underwater connector 818 and can go to a surface vessel if continuous or semi-continuous circulation in the annular gap is desired.

The exhaust drum 804 is fluidly coupled to the suspension coil 803. The suspension coil, in turn, in this embodiment is connected to a conical tensioned joint 802, which in itself is not part of the ICA, but is shown for completeness and to show how the ICA is connected to the riser system. An earring 806 and a chain safety harness 807 allow the IKA to be mechanically connected to an almost surface buoyancy device (not shown). As best shown in FIG. 7Ό, the crank block 808 has an inner channel 808A that intersects with the channel 804A in the exhaust drum 804 and is generally perpendicular thereto. In this embodiment, a crank block 809 and an internal channel 809A are also provided, which is also mainly perpendicular to the channel 804A but does not intersect with the channel 804A.

The 8-shaped conduit 810 creates a flow path for hydrocarbons, in combination with an elbow channel 808A, with a first emergency stop valve 811 (Ε8Ό valve) and a second emergency stop valve 812. The outlet 813 in the connector 813A may be connected to the subsea flex 12 for production or containment operations. Connector 813A may be an OPT1MA brand connector, or other connector suitable for underwater use. To control the connector 813A, a KOU connection 814 is provided. A bleed valve 815 can also be provided, which allows locking the IKA, diverting the contents of the 8-shaped assembly 810 and lifting the underwater flexible pipeline, for example, in the event of a hurricane or other natural events, or planned events.

Valves 816 and 817 are provided for circulating in the annular gap and / or for injecting production fluid and / or functional fluid through a connector 818. Valves 816 and 817 can be controlled with a KOU. Functional fluid can also be introduced into the annular gap through another valve controlled with KOC 819 and connector 820, which may be a flange connector.

In FIG. 7E shows in detail the cross section of the area where the tap drum 804 and the coil 803 for suspension are connected. Two ring seal and wire holder assemblies 822 provide a double seal between fluid flowing into channel 825A in lift column 825 and chamber 827 for slots 824. Circlip 823 holds slips 824 in position. A passage 826 is also provided that provides access to the ring seal assemblies 822 and the wire holder.

Another embodiment of the upper riser assembly in accordance with the present invention is shown schematically in side view in FIG. 8A. ICA 6 comprises a production fluid channel for the exhaust drum 910 fluidly connected to the pipe 911 and to the elevator column 913. The elevator column 913 is fluidly connected to the bend limiter 134 through the underwater AP1 flange 905, the underwater high pressure connector 184, the other underwater AP1 flange connection 133, and , optionally, through the CIS, an underwater connector (for example, sold by the company Vesyug 8ibgea, 1ps., trade name ORT1MA). The bend limiter 134 may be connected to an underwater flexible conduit 12, which in a known manner can go in a loop with a sag to the surface vessel. 9118Ό 915 with control from KOU can be provided in the pipe section 911. in this embodiment, a support bracket 916 may be provided which, in addition to supporting the elevator column 913 at an angle σ, can also support a curved shield 942, which is a mechanical barrier between the wing assemblies. The angle σ can lie in the range of approximately from 0 to 180 °, or approximately from 30 to 90 °, or approximately from 30 to 45 °. The pipeline 911 is fluidly connected to an adapter 926, which, in turn, is fluidly connected to a coil 912 for suspension through an AP1 flange 917, with a casing head 124 through another AP1 flange 918, with a liner joint 124B welded to the casing head 124, and with riser 2 screwed into the shank joint 124B. The tap drum 910 includes a flange 127 with an earring that allows connection to a safety harness 125 and an almost surface buoyancy device (not shown).

Another feature of this embodiment shown in FIG. 8A, there is a connection 906 in a suspension coil 912 for connecting to an 8-shaped bend 907, with an AP1 flange 908, with a pipe 909, with an underwater high pressure connection 940, with another

- 15 026518 with an underwater ΑΡΙ connector 940 and with a ΑΡΙ flange 941, and with a bend limiter 923 for the underwater flexible pipe 919 to supply heated water (or other flow fluid) from the surface structure to the coil 912 for suspension. The heated water (or other flow providing fluid) can then circulate in the annular gap, or pass through the annular gap downward to the LKA and flow out of the annular gap through one or more valves of the annular gap ventilation adapter, such as valves 142, 144 shown in FIG. 8C.

In FIG. 8B is a sectional view taken along line 8B-8B of FIG. 8A details of this embodiment of an ICA. An inner riser 60 located within the adapter 926, a suspension coil 912 and a casing head 124 create an annular space 76 between the inner surface 912A of the suspension coil 912 and the inner riser 60. A pair of O-rings 925 provide sealing to the inner riser 60 in the adapter 926. One or several slots 924 that are wedged between the inner beveled surface 943 of the suspension coil 912 and the inner riser 60 securely fasten the inner riser 60 in the suspension coil 912.

In FIG. 8C is a side view of another bKA assembly in accordance with the present invention. This embodiment LKA comprises a high-strength steel stamped inlet drum 920, a connector 921 and a δ-bend 944, an underwater ΑΡΙ flange 945, a pipe drum 946, an underwater high pressure connector 180, another underwater ΑΡΙ flange 111, a bend stopper 112, and an underwater flexible a conduit 14 that can be connected to an underwater hydrocarbon source (not shown). Another connector 947 on the inlet drum 920 allows connection to a source of functional fluid.

In FIG. 8Ό are shown in section along the line 8Ό-8Ό in FIG. 8C, details of this embodiment LKA illustrating the internal extension connector 92 sitting on the inner surface of the intake drum 920. The locking mechanism 930 allows removable connection of the internal extension connector 92 to the intake drum, while the annular seal 928 creates a tight seal between the channel of the internal extension connector 92 and the annular gap 76. The flexible joint 2ΡΙΒ is connected to the inlet drum in a known manner, for example, using split rings c, collets or prongs, such as those described herein for other embodiments.

Flow assumptions show that P8K can be constructed using five layers of 3-inch (7.6 cm) thick polypropylene thermal insulation applied to an external riser, while the annular gap between the internal and external risers is filled (forced out) with low-pressure nitrogen . During operation, this scheme allows mainly to maintain the permissible temperature of hydrocarbons from an underwater source until they reach the surface structure.

Materials, design methods and installation

In addition to gaskets, hoses, flexible conduits and other components that are not part of the present invention, all described primary components of LKAK and IKAK (exhaust drums, intake drums, suspension coils, generally cylindrical elements, riser sections, riser heads, casing heads, casing heads columns, coils for suspension of the elevator column, underwater high-pressure connectors, liner joints, riser joints, etc.) are mainly made of alloy steels. Despite the fact that low carbon steels are suitable for use in some embodiments in which the depth does not exceed several thousand feet, when working at great depths, when the wells reach a depth of 20,000 feet (about 6,000 m) or more, operating temperatures significantly increase and pressure. In these high temperature and high pressure applications (in HPHT applications), high strength steels such as S-110 and S-125 are more suitable.

The KekeagesB Riyegkır 1o §igu Eiegdu og Ateps organization (KR8EA) and the IeercNg programs initiated a long-term, large-scale preliminary assessment program to create metal fatigue databases and obtain factors for reducing the nominal parameters of high-strength materials for the production of risers, carried out with the assistance of the main operators, equipment manufacturers and material sellers. High-strength steels (such as X-100, S-110, p125, S-125, U-140), titanium (grade 29 and, possibly, its new alloys) and other possible high-strength materials can be tested in real-life conditions and, depending on the results obtained, can be considered suitable for use as materials for the risers described here, LKAK and IKAK. High-strength stampable materials (such as P22, 4330M, Inconel 718 and Inconel 725) have already been or will soon be tested for use as component materials in the coming years, and may be suitable for one or more of the components of the LKA and / or IKA, and / or risers. A test matrix has been developed that reflects various external production conditions and various types of riser configurations, such as single chain risers (SSC'k), dry Christmas tree risers, and drilling and completion risers. This project is currently divided into three distinct phases. In phase 1, tensile strength and fracture toughness, ROCC will be investigated and δ-tests of samples (smooth and notched) cut from high strength pipes, stamped materials of high strength and forgings from nickel alloys in air, will be conducted. in seawater, in seawater with the addition of cathodic protection (CP), as well as in an acidic medium (not inhibited) and in a completion solution known as ΙΝδΠΕΟΕΕ (manufactured by § § у у у 1 ея ея Сот Сот ра ра пу,, υδΑ), contaminated with an acidic medium (not inhibited) (2008). In phase 2, intermediate tests will be carried out (2009), and in phase 3 full tests will be carried out with Η ₂ δ / СО ₂ sea water (2010). Additional information is contained in publications 8Ы11шд, е! A1., Eeeeortep1 oR Raidiye Kei1ya! ay! Neuuu \ νη11 Ktat Sopes! Ogya South Eeeer \ ya1eg ΗΡΗΤ This Tgee Ktatet δuyuetya, ΟΜΑΕ (2009) 79518 (sorupd! 2009 ΑδΜΕ) and ΚΡδΕΑ ΡΡΡ2007Ο \ νΐ403. Raidie RegRogtapsu OR S bd δ! ^ Ebdb Shaeg Ma1eg1a1ya, No. 28, 2007. As already mentioned above, specialists in this field who know the specific depths, pressures, temperatures, as well as the materials available can design the most cost-effective, safe, and workable system for each specific application, without undue experimentation.

Over the past few years, the assignee’s assignee has participated in a comprehensive 15 / 20Kä1 (103/138 MPa) dry Christmas tree riser evaluation program that focused on proving the suitability of high strength steels and specially designed threaded and paired (T&C) joints that are machined at the factory directly at the joints of the riser. (See publication δΗιΡιπβ е! А1., Эеее1орттеп1 оР Raydiye Kay1ya! Ap! Neuu Va11 Sews Compounding Horn Eeyer \ u1eg ΗΡΗΤ Ωγυ Tghey Sews siding, ΟΜΑΕ2009-79518.) These compounds eliminate the need for high strength materials and make welding easier and easier. such as C-110 and C125, which are qualified by the association NΑСΕ. (ΝΑΟΕ is a corrosion prevention organization that was formerly named No.-1Jop1 LzüaaOop oR Sottoyayup Nptetegya, and now has the name NΑCΕ 1p! Etpayopa1, ^ Μπ, Tehaya).

The use of high-strength steel and other high-strength materials reduces the wall thickness and allows the design of riser systems that can withstand much higher pressures than in the case of X-80 steel, and which can be installed at much greater depths by reducing weight and, therefore, thus reducing tension requirements. T&C joints eliminate the need for third-party forgings and expensive welding, which significantly reduces the system’s delivery time and overall cost. Using these materials and connectors allows you to design a ΡδΚ localization system of the second generation for a full load of 15 ky1 (103/138 MPa), in which the external riser has an outer diameter reduced from 13.813 inches (35.085 cm) to 10.75 inches (27.31 cm), and a wall thickness of 0.75 inches (1.91 cm), and the inner riser of C-110 material has an outer diameter of 7 inches (17.8 cm) and a wall thickness of 0.453 inches (1.15 cm). However, it should be borne in mind that the use of forgings produced by a third party and welding is not excluded for the risers described here, υΚΑ and ^ КЛя, and in some situations it may be preferable. Specialists in this field who know the specific depths, pressures, temperatures, and available materials can easily design a cost-effective, safe, and workable system for each specific application, without undue experimentation.

The connections of the kits (knots) described here to the risers, as well as the connections of the internal nodes, such as the connections of the drill pipe drum adapter to the head of the lift string, and the connections of mainly cylindrical elements to the risers, etc., can be threaded connections like this described in the above article δ1ιί11ίΐΊ £ e! A1., and also described in the following patent documents: νΟ 2005093309; ν02005059422; and US Pat. No. 8. 6752436 and 6729658. Additional information is contained in the following publications: δθ ^ е! a1 .. Raidiye Kei1ya1ap! Thgeabeb apb Soir1eb Hope: 1Pe No. \ y δ! Apba ^ b Rog Eeeer Va! E ^ K1yaeg Αрр1 ^ saΑ ^ opya, ΟΜΑΕ 2007-29263; δθ ^ e! A1., Raidiye Kei1ya1ap! Tygeabeb apb Soir1eb Sopes! Og Rog Eee \ ua1eg K1ayet δuyyaetya: Eeya1dp apb Ρе ^ Ро ^ тапсе Ενа1иайоп bу Αпауая ^ я абб Ри11 δс1е Тея! Я, ΟΜΑΕ 2008-57603; apb δ1ιί11ίπ8 e! a1., Eeeeorteplä w Kläeg Thorno Horn! Oepegayop гаga-Eeeer V ^ Vе11я, ^ ΟΤ СопРегепсе, 2008 Ρ ^ асееб ^ пдя.

Materials for constructing gaskets, flexible conduits, and hoses suitable for constructing and using the kits and methods described herein depend on the specific depths, temperatures, and pressures of the water at which they will be used. Despite the fact that rubber gaskets can be used in some situations, metal gaskets are increasingly used in underwater applications. A review of relevant materials known before 1992 is given in the publication Μί1 ^^ τ e! a1., Ruyuyop oR !e! a1 δеа Ρ ^^^ apb Thiei Αрр1 ^ сaiп ш δияеа ЭШпд apb Ρ ^ desyyop, ΟΤС-6994, ΟРрьЬое е ес ес стандар стандар стандар стандар 1992 1992 1992,, 1992, 601 - δΡη ^ ιι ^ Horn Μе! А1Ьс Оаяке! I Horn Krzyaeb-Rase Ρί | ^ Р1апдея & Р1пдеп Сппесёпя, and in the specification ΑΡΙ δес 6Α - δес ^ Р ^ сайоп Rog Vе11еаб apb Спяпяе Тgeе Рсцр.

The gaskets themselves are not part of the kits and methods of the present invention, however, in some embodiments такая and υΚΑ, gaskets (such as gasket 716 mentioned in connection with embodiment ΚΚΑ in FIG. 31) may be used, therefore, the following is shown reference to US patents, which describe gaskets suitable for use in specific embodiments, as a guide for specialists in this field: US patents υ Νϋ8. 3637223, 3918485, 4597448, 4294477 and 7467663. In some embodiments, so-called ΌΧ gaskets designed for 20 rods can be used.

- 17 026518

Another gasket that can be used under water is a gasket with the trade designation P1ko1sk US8, manufactured by P1ko1sk, 1ps., \ UNEa1 K1bge, Co1otbo (υδΛ). It can be assumed that this gasket is made in accordance with US Pat. 4,776,600, which is incorporated herein by reference.

In some embodiments, the implementation of the NCA may have a reducible rupture disk, allowing the ventilation of the NCA to the atmosphere. In some embodiments, the implementation of this burst disk may be a recoverable burst disk. The rupture disk allows, inter alia, ventilation of the annular gap above the bKA, and in some embodiments, allows a functional fluid, such as nitrogen, to be pumped into the annular gap near the top of the ΡδΚ rupture disks. The rupture disks allow measurement of pressure and / or flow temperature (inside the riser ) or in the annular gap between the inner and outer risers. In addition to rupture discs, hot taps of maximum flow rate can be used in various equipment, such as emergency disconnect systems.

Flexible subsea pipelines, sometimes referred to here as flexible connectors, are known to those skilled in the art of underwater drilling and hydrocarbon production. For example, in US Pat. 6039083 describes that flexible pipelines are typically used to move liquids and gases between flooded pipelines and oil and gas production units and other installations located at some distance from the shore. These pipelines are exposed to high internal and external pressures, as well as chemical attack due to sea water surrounding flooded pipelines and fluids flowing inside the pipelines. U.S. Pat. 6263982 discloses underwater flexible conduits that comprise flexible steel pipes, such as those manufactured by Soyeh1p 1p1etpaiopao o Rtaps under the trade designation COPYEX1P, for example, with an internal diameter of 5 inches (12.7 cm), or shorter segments of a rigid pipe connected by flexible joints and other flexible conduits known to those skilled in the art. Other patents of interest to the company Soyekh1p and / or Soyekhp1n! Ehp1yp1 are US patents Uo8. 6,282,933; 6,067,829; 6,401,760; 6016847; 6,053,213 and 5,514,312. Other suitable flexible conduits are described in US Pat. 7770603 firms Teschr, Ragk, Rgaps. U.S. Pat. 7445030, also issued to the company TesNshr, describes a flexible pipe that contains successive independent layers containing screw windings from tapes of various sections and at least one polymer shell. At least one of the windings is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTRE) tape. The above list does not contain all the flexible pipes that can be used in the systems and methods in accordance with the present invention.

Hoses, which are also referred to as flexible connectors in some embodiments, suitable for use in systems and methods in accordance with the present invention, can be made of various materials or a combination of materials suitable for underwater use, in other words, having high heat resistance, high resistance chemical attack and low penetration rates. Some fluoropolymers and nylons are particularly well suited for this application, with the exception of very long pipelines (several kilometers or more), where permeability can cause problems. A good overview of hoses and materials for their manufacture is contained in US Pat. 6901968 of the company Osapeapeppd 1n1etpayopa1 δе ^ ν ^ ce8, bopbop, Otea! Wash!, Which describes the so-called hoses with high crush resistance, intended for use at great depths, which can resist flattening as a result of the very high pressures applied to them.

In some embodiments, it may be necessary or desirable to splic one hose with another hose, or replace a damaged hose. In these cases, KOU-controlled hose splicing devices described in provisional patent applications US 61479486 and 61479489 of the patentee successor filed April 27, 2011 can be used. US Patent Application 61479486 describes KOC-controlled hydraulically driven hose splicing devices, and U.S. Patent Application 61479489 describes KOU-controlled mechanically driven hose splicing devices. Each device can create a connector with a full channel (orifice) allowing operation at full pressure, which is preferred for applications with high flow rates and high pressures. A simple movement of the winding using a guide bell minimizes the complexity of the direction using KOU. Devices with a hydraulic drive contain at least two chambers and at least one self-locking mechanical lock in each chamber, and after the hose is inserted into the chamber, the KOU supplies power to the device and the connection is made without additional movement of the KOU manipulators, and the hydraulic pressure can be lowered in chambers. A hot KOU insert can be used in some embodiments to connect the device to a hydraulic KOU power unit to provide power to the device and power it.

The kits described here can be used either in single-pipe schemes (offset riser with single pipe-δΗ-OP) or in pipe-in-pipe schemes (concentric offset riser RNS), which provide additional insulation and allow gas lift through basement 18 026518 riser or active heating through the annular gap. These risers may have a welded or threaded design and may have tension created by means of an upper air can located 50-150 m below the surface, depending on environmental conditions, or using hydropneumatic tensioning devices, or both . Each free-standing riser can be connected to a surface structure (for example, a surface vessel or a sea base) using a flexible connector for shallow depth.

In some embodiments, the riser tension can be maintained using a non-integrated air can system secured by a chain safety rope over the riser lash. Air banks can provide the necessary buoyancy for upward thrust, which is required to control overall stability and motion characteristics, and can create an effective tension of 100 bales of 45,000 kg) at the base of the riser under all loading conditions, including the failure of one or more air chambers cans. In one embodiment, an LKA made in accordance with FIG. 3 and 4, has a weight of about 30 bales (13.600 kg) in air and 26 bales (11.800 kg) in the submerged (underwater) state. It can be attached to a suction pile assembly using a 90 foot 117 mm K-4 anchor chain without struts, with tensile strength of 2,915 bales (1,300,000 kg), and with a 250 ton (230,000 kg) Stozu 0-2140 earrings, with strength a gap of 2,750 bales (1,230,000 kg). In this embodiment, the borehole may have 15ίδί (103 MPa) 0Ε OP & 0az (Уе1СО) Н-4 underwater wellhead specially machined to receive 2 x 7-1 / 6 in (5.08 x 18.2 cm) 10,000 ρδί (69 MPa) for mounting multiple flexible connectors or, as shown in FIG. 3, one connector for production fluid and a KOU interface for injecting methanol.

Systems in accordance with the present invention that utilize the kits described herein can be scaled to a wide range of water depths, well pressures, and operating conditions. Calculations of flow assurance show that used ΡδΡδ. BKA and IKA allow over 40,000 barrels per day (about 6400 m ³ per day) to pass through, when each of them has a duct with an internal diameter of 6 inches (15 cm). Existing dry-tree-type riser equipment can be used to form ΡδΡδ, as it is easily accessible. In these embodiments, the joints of the external riser can have an external diameter of 13.813 inches (35.085 cm) and a wall thickness of 0.563 inches (1.430 cm) and can be made of X-80 steel and rated at 6.500 ρδί (45 MPa). X-80 grade steel can be used because it can be welded with the best riser connectors, which have external and internal metal-to-metal seals that meet the requirements for fatigue characteristics with an estimated service life.

The riser systems using the IKA and / or LKA in accordance with the present invention can in some embodiments be installed using the MOEN and then the upper flexible connector can be installed after installing the riser. In embodiments using MOEs, the upper flexible connector may be connected to the IKA during installation from the MOSFET and may be sandwiched at intervals while hanging vertically along the riser. The lower underwater flexible connector can be later (in a few days) connected to LKA with the help of one or several vessels for underwater installation, for example, after connecting ΡδК to the suction pile assembly and creating tension from it.

The surface structure may be provided with a quick disconnect / joint system (OOS system) for the upper flexible connector. The features of the quick disconnect / joint system are described in provisional patent application US 61480368, filed April 28, 2011. A detachable buoy can be used to support the end of the upper flexible connector from the surface structure during an emergency disconnect. The buoy can be attached to ensure both buoyancy and hydraulic resistance, and so that the upper flexible connector is not damaged by lowering too quickly (i.e. due to excessive compression exceeding the minimum bend radius) after it is released to freely fall into the water column . In the event of a planned or emergency disconnect (during a hurricane), the top flexible connector 6 inches (15 cm) can be detached from the surface structure in a controlled manner and lowered by a support vessel so that it hangs along side ΡδΡ where it can be clamped onto place using KOU.

In some embodiments of the concentric riser, in which one or more of the LKAZ and / or PKAZ described herein can be used, the PKA allows controlling the flow of both the inner riser and the annular gap between the inner and outer risers. In the duct of the inner riser, pressure and temperature sensors may be provided; hydraulically controlled emergency shut-off valve closed during an accident, controlled from a surface structure; channel reducing pressure hot insert KOU; and / or KOU controlled manual shutoff valve. The annular gap may have means for injecting nitrogen using a hot insert KOC, and one or more temperature and pressure sensors. A pressure relief valve (Ρδν), set to 4,500 ρδί (31 MPa) in the annular gap of the riser, prevents failure due to excess pressure of the external riser in the event of hydrocarbon leakage from the internal riser.

- 19 026518

In some embodiments, BKA allows access to the hot insert of the KOC from the side of the annular gap of the riser and the flow of production fluid, for pumping, ventilation, and monitoring pressure and temperature. In some embodiments, two KOU-controlled 3-inch (7.5 cm) valves are provided on the annular gap ventilation adapter, providing better access to the annular gap for nitrogen purge and ventilation operations, or for other operations. In some embodiments, the BKA duct may have two drums, each of which contains 5-inch (12.7 cm) 10Κδί (69 MPa) KOC-controlled valves and KOC-controlled clamps (for example, manufactured by Ues! Og 8iZea) for underwater connection flexible boot connectors.

In some embodiments, the bKA and IKA nodes described herein can be used as components of a containment and discharge system, or production system. In this case, the hydrate suppression system (ΗΙ8) can be integrated into the systems and methods in accordance with the present invention. The supply lines of a hydration inhibiting chemical from a surface vessel allow the chemical to be fed into the cap of an underwater BOP kit, into a BOP, and into flexible underwater pipelines through an underwater manifold. During circulation, the chemical can return to the ship through the return line. The chemical can also enter the throttle line and the line to kill the underwater BOP through the throttling / silencing manifold.

From the above detailed description of specific embodiments of the invention, it becomes clear that although specific embodiments of the invention are described in detail here, it should be borne in mind that this was done solely in order to explain the various characteristics and aspects of the methods and kits, and not in order to limit the scope of patent claims. It is understood that various substitutions, changes and / or modifications, including but not limited to implementation variations, can be made in the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the attached claims.

Claims (40)

1. A kit for connecting an underwater riser with a mooring means on the seabed and with an underwater fluid source of hydrocarbons, which contains a cylindrical element having a longitudinal channel, lower end, upper end and outer cylindrical surface, said element comprising at least one inlet, coming from the outer surface into the channel and allowing the flow of hydrocarbons from the source of hydrocarbons, as well as the flow of functional fluid, at least one of the inlet openings Only the flow end is connected upstream with the valve assembly of the production wing, the upper end of the element having a profile suitable for flow connection with the underwater riser, and the lower end of the element containing a connector designed to connect to the mooring means on the seabed. 2. The kit according to claim 1, in which the cylindrical element comprises a housing for an underwater wellhead, the lower end of which is modified by attaching a adapter sleeve, wherein the adapter sleeve contains the specified at least one inlet, and the upper end of the body of the underwater wellhead is connected in a stream with an external extension connector, wherein the extension connector connects the underwater wellhead housing with the riser articulation downstream, the underwater wellhead housing has an inner the lower sealing profile, allowing you to create a seal with an internal extension connector, while the internal extension connector connects the internal underwater riser downstream with the internal sealing profile, and the internal extension connector has a nose seal that is hermetically inserted into the internal sealing profile of the underwater wellhead this seal of the bow ensures a constant pressure between the inner duct in the inner riser and the annular gap between the inner These riser and concentric outer riser. 3. The kit according to claim 2, in which the valve assembly of the production wing is connected downstream to an underwater source through an underwater flexible pipeline. 4. The kit according to claim 2, in which the stressed joint of the riser is connected downstream to the external riser. 5. The kit according to claim 2, which contains valves controlled by an underwater remote-controlled apparatus (KOU) for regulating the flow through the internal duct in the inner riser and through the annular gap. 6. The kit according to claim 2, which contains one or more channels for hot cuts, designed to interfere with the operation of the well and / or for routine maintenance using KOU. - 20 026518 7. The kit according to claim 1, in which the cylindrical element contains a forged metal of increased strength, connected downstream with a shortened pipe of the production riser through the lower flange joint and a connector with a threaded joint, the forging comprising a longitudinal channel, lower end, upper end, and outer a cylindrical surface and said at least one inlet, wherein the lower end of the metal forgings comprises a connector for connecting to the mooring means on the seabed. 8. The kit according to claim 1, in which the cylindrical element contains a stamped from high-strength steel inlet drum, connected downstream with a δ-shaped node, and the δ-shaped node is connected downstream with an underwater source through an underwater flexible pipe, and the inlet drum is also contains a connector that allows you to connect to a source of functional fluid. 9. A free-standing riser system connecting an underwater hydrocarbon source to a surface structure, the system comprising a concentric free-standing riser containing an internal riser located inside the external riser and an annular gap between the external and internal riser; the lower node of the riser (LKA), containing the kit according to claim 1, attached to the lower end of the concentric free-standing riser, the upper end of the cylindrical element attached to the lower end of the outer riser; and an upper riser assembly (IKA) attached to the upper end of the free-standing riser; moreover, the ICA contains a cylindrical external element having a longitudinal channel, a lower end, an upper end and an external cylindrical surface, the upper end of the external element containing a connector designed to connect the external element with an underwater buoyancy device, and the lower end of the external element is attached to the upper end of the external riser; a cylindrical inner element located inside the outer element, the inner element having an elongated production channel, a lower end, an upper end and an outer cylindrical surface, the lower end of the inner element being attached to the upper end of the inner riser; an outlet opening from the extraction channel of the inner element to the outer cylindrical surface of the outer element, wherein the outlet is connected downstream to the valve assembly of the production wing and allows the flow of hydrocarbons from the inner riser to the surface structure using an underwater flexible pipe; and a plurality of inlets extending from the outer cylindrical surface of the outer member to the longitudinal channel of the outer member, each of the plurality of inlets permitting the circulation of the functional fluid through an annular gap between the inner riser and the outer riser. 10. The free-standing riser system according to claim 9, wherein said external element of the upper riser assembly (IKA) comprises a drum adapter for a drill cable, an elevator head connected to a drum adapter for a drill rope, and a casing head connected to the elevator head columns, and the outlet of the ICA is made passing through the head of the elevator string, and many inlets of the ICA are made in the head of the casing. 11. The free-standing riser system of claim 10, wherein the ICA casing head comprises a liner joint connected to the upper end of the external riser. 12. The free-standing riser system according to claim 11, in which the ICA further comprises an adjustable suspension of the elevator column located inside the head of the elevator column, the adjustable suspension of the elevator column having a lower end connected to the upper end of the internal riser. 13. The free-standing riser system according to claim 12, in which the valve assembly of the ICA production wing comprises first and second flow control valves configured to adjust the flow of hydrocarbons through the ICA submarine flexible pipeline. 14. The free-standing riser system according to claim 9, in which the valve assembly of the IKA production wing contains one or more channels for hot inserts of KOC allowing the flow fluid to flow into the inner riser and into the annular gap of the concentric free riser between the internal riser and the external riser wherein the flow providing fluid is selected from the group consisting of nitrogen or another gas phase, heated seawater, or other water or organic chemicals. 15. The free-standing riser system according to claim 9, in which the external IKA element comprises a retraction drum, a flange with an eye connected to the upper end of the retraction drum, and a suspension coil connected to the retraction drum, wherein the retraction drum and suspension coil form longitudinal channel of the external element of the ICA. - 21 026518 16. The free-standing riser system according to Claim 15, wherein the exhaust drum comprises a channel oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal channel of the cylindrical external IKA element, wherein the exhaust drum channel forms an IKA outlet. 17. The free-standing riser system according to clause 16, wherein the valve assembly of the ICA production wing comprises a δ-shaped pipe and two emergency stop valves located along the δ-shaped pipe, the first of the valves having hydraulic control and the second valve having electronic control . 18. The free-standing riser system according to claim 15, wherein the suspension coil comprises a channel oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal channel of the cylindrical external IKA element, wherein the channel of the suspension coil is in fluid communication with the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser, and the valve access unit in the annular gap is configured to control fluid flow through the channel of the coil for suspension. 19. The free-standing riser system according to claim 18, wherein the valve access unit in the annular gap comprises one or more valves controlled by a KOU. 20. The free-standing riser system according to claim 19, wherein the valve access unit in the annular gap is downstream connected to a flow providing fluid source. 21. The free-standing riser system according to claim 9, in which the external IKA element comprises a production channel exhaust drum and a vertical pipe connected to a mining channel exhaust drum; moreover, the outlet of the IKA is connected downstream with the elevator column, the elevator column is connected to the bend limiter through the underwater AP1 flange, underwater high pressure connector, another underwater AP1 flange connection, and the bend limiter is connected to the underwater flexible pipe, and the vertical pipe is connected via the flow in series with the adapter, which, in turn, is connected downstream with the coil for suspension through the AP1 flange with the casing head through another AP1 flange, with neniem shank welded to the head casing and the external riser through a threaded connection with an articulation of the shank, wherein the retraction drum comprises a flange pierced configured to produce a compound with the underwater buoyancy device. 22. The free-standing riser system according to claim 21, which further comprises an emergency stop valve controlled by KOU, connected downstream to a section of the vertical pipeline. 23. The free-standing riser system according to claim 22, wherein the IKA further comprises a support arm that supports the elevator column at an angle σ relative to the pipeline, and also supports a curved shield, which is a mechanical barrier between the elevator column and the vertical pipeline, and the angle σ lies in range approximately from 0 to 180 °. 24. The free-standing riser system of claim 23, wherein the ICA further comprises a connection to a suspension coil for attaching a δ-shaped pipe elbow for supplying heated water to the suspension coil from a surface vessel. 25. The free-standing riser system of claim 24, wherein the δ-shaped pipe elbow comprises, in sequence from a suspension coil, an AP1 flange, a pipe section, an underwater high pressure connector, an underwater AP1 connector, and an AP1 flange and a bend limiter. 26. The free-standing riser system according to claim 25, wherein the inner riser is located inside the adapter, the suspension coil and the casing head, wherein the annular gap between the suspension coil and the inner riser is in fluid communication with the annular gap between the inner riser and the outer boner. 27. The free-standing riser system according to claim 9, which further comprises components enabling circulation of the functional fluid through the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser. 28. The free-standing riser system according to Claim 27, wherein the external IKA element comprises a retraction drum connected to a suspension coil, the suspension coil being connected to a conical tensioned joint of the free-standing riser. 29. The free-standing riser system according to claim 28, wherein the IKA further comprises a first cranked block containing an internal channel that intersects with and is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal channel of the cylindrical external element of the ICA, a second cranked block having an internal channel that is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal channel of the cylindrical external element of the ICA, but does not intersect with the longitudinal channel of the cylindrical external element of the ICA, and a δ-shaped pipe connected downstream to the first elbow th block and for providing a flow of hydrocarbons in combination with the inner bore of the first crankshaft unit. 30. The free-standing riser system according to clause 29, wherein the ICA further comprises a first emergency stop valve and a second emergency stop valve in a δ-shaped pipe, the δ-shaped pipe being in fluid communication with the underwater flexible pipe. - 22 026518 31. The free-standing riser system according to claim 27, wherein the components circulating the functional fluid through the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser comprise an underwater connector, a pipeline, and one or more valves in the pipeline, the pipeline being connected downstream to a suspension coil. 32. A free-standing riser system connecting an underwater source of hydrocarbons to a surface structure that comprises a concentric free-standing riser containing an internal riser located inside the external riser and an annular gap between the external and internal riser; the lower node of the riser (LKA), containing the kit according to claim 1, attached to the lower end of the free-standing riser, the upper end of the cylindrical element attached to the lower end of the external riser; the upper node of the riser (IKA), attached to the upper end of the free-standing riser; moreover, the ICA contains a cylindrical external element having a longitudinal channel, a lower end, an upper end and an external surface, the upper end of the external element containing a connector designed to connect the external element with an underwater device to ensure buoyancy, and the lower end of the external element contains a profile designed to connect downstream with the upper end of the external riser; a cylindrical inner element located inside the outer element, the inner element having a longitudinal production channel, a lower end, an upper end and an outer surface, where the lower end of the inner element is attached to the upper end of the inner riser; an outlet extending from the extraction channel of the inner element to the outer surface of the outer element, the outlet being connected downstream to the valve assembly of the production wing and allows a hydrocarbon stream to pass from the inner riser to the surface structure using an underwater flexible pipe; a plurality of inlets extending from the outer surface of the outer member to the longitudinal channel of the outer member, each of the plurality of inlets permitting circulation of the functional fluid through an annular gap between the inner riser and the external riser. 33. The system is a free-standing riser, which contains a concentric free-standing riser containing an internal riser located inside the external riser, and an annular gap formed between the internal and external risers; the lower node of the riser (LKA), containing the kit according to claim 1, attached to the lower end of the free-standing riser, the upper end of the cylindrical element attached to the lower end of the external riser; the upper node of the riser (IKA) attached to the upper end of the free-standing riser, and the IKA contains an external tubular unit having an upper end, a lower end and a channel extending from the upper end to the lower end, and the upper end of the external tubular node is configured to attach to an underwater buoyancy device, and the lower end of the outer tubular assembly is connected to the upper end of the outer riser; an inner tubular assembly fixed inside the outer tubular assembly, wherein the inner tubular assembly has an upper end, a lower end and a channel extending from the upper end to the lower end of the inner tubular assembly, the lower end of the inner tubular assembly being connected to the upper end of the inner riser, and the channel the inner tubular assembly is in fluid communication with the mining riser channel; moreover, the external tubular site contains an outlet located in the flow connection with the channel of the inner tubular site and the channel of production of the inner riser; a production wing valve assembly connected to an external tubular assembly, the production valve assembly being in fluid communication with an outlet and an underwater flexible conduit leading to the surface structure, the production wing valve assembly comprising a plurality of valves arranged in series and configured to control flow hydrocarbons obtained through an outlet and an underwater flexible conduit. 34. The free-standing riser system according to claim 33, wherein the plurality of ICA valves includes a pair of emergency stop valves (ΕδΌ) located along a δ-shaped pipeline. 35. The free-standing riser system according to claim 33, wherein the first valve of the ICA valves is hydraulically controlled and the second valve of the ICA valves is electronically controlled. 36. The free-standing riser system according to claim 33, wherein the external tubular ICA assembly comprises an inlet that is in fluid communication with the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser. 37. The free-standing riser system according to claim 36, wherein the IKA inlet is configured to supply a fluid for providing flow to the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser. 38. The free-standing riser system of claim 36, wherein the external tubular ICA assembly comprises a plurality of inlets that are in fluid communication with the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser. 39. The free-standing riser system according to claim 38, wherein each of the inlet ports of the ICA is configured to supply a fluid to provide flow into the annular gap of the concentric free-standing riser. 40. The free-standing riser system according to claim 33, wherein the external tubular ICA assembly comprises a plurality of outlet openings and a plurality of openings for interfering with the operation of the wells, in which each of the outlet openings and each of the openings for interfering with the operation of the wells are in a flow connection with the channel of the internal tubular site and the channel of extraction of the internal riser.