WO2015104173A2 - Electrical wellhead shutdown system - Google Patents

Electrical wellhead shutdown system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2015104173A2
WO2015104173A2 PCT/EP2014/078712 EP2014078712W WO2015104173A2 WO 2015104173 A2 WO2015104173 A2 WO 2015104173A2 EP 2014078712 W EP2014078712 W EP 2014078712W WO 2015104173 A2 WO2015104173 A2 WO 2015104173A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
sssv
actuator
valve apparatus
valve
electrical power
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2014/078712
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2015104173A3 (en
Inventor
Jorgen Gross-Petersen
Soren Trip BORSMOSE
Original Assignee
Maersk Olie Og Gas A/S
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Maersk Olie Og Gas A/S filed Critical Maersk Olie Og Gas A/S
Publication of WO2015104173A2 publication Critical patent/WO2015104173A2/en
Publication of WO2015104173A3 publication Critical patent/WO2015104173A3/en

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
    • E21B34/06—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells
    • E21B34/066—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in wells electrically actuated
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
    • E21B34/02—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells in well heads
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH DRILLING, e.g. DEEP DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B34/00—Valve arrangements for boreholes or wells
    • E21B34/16—Control means therefor being outside the borehole

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to apparatuses and methods for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a production structure, and in particular, though not exclusively, to apparatuses and methods for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of an offshore production platform.
  • Offshore production assemblies typically comprise a number of components including, but not limited to:
  • a wellhead typically located at well upper portion and/or near the seabed and providing structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components such as casing, liners, tubing, etc;
  • the "Christmas tree” is typically connected to and/or placed on the wellhead.
  • Production trees typically comprise an array of valves and/or actuators configured to control flow of reservoir fluids (e.g. hydrocarbons) by permitting opening and/or closure of one or more conduits carrying hydrocarbons from the well to a discharge location.
  • reservoir fluids e.g. hydrocarbons
  • the production tree typically comprises hydraulically operated shutdown valves and/or actuators.
  • the shutdown valves and/or actuators of the production tree are typically operated by pressurised hydraulic oil supplied by hydraulic pumps.
  • Such hydraulically operated production tree systems typically include a panel containing a hydraulic oil reservoir (so-called “oil sump” for storing the oil), hydraulic pumps, filters, hydraulic accumulators (configured to pressurise the oil), and valves such as solenoid electrically operated valves.
  • the solenoid electrically operated valves typically control or operate spring loaded hydraulic actuators. The actuators may be forced open by the hydraulic pressure provided by the hydraulic accumulators. In order to close the shutdown valves, the solenoid valve is electrically opened, thus releasing pressure and draining the hydraulic oil back into the hydraulic oil reservoir when the spring closes the valve.
  • Such a production tree shutdown system can typically have a size in the region of 3m x 0.5m x 2m.
  • Such a complex and large apparatus may be problematic in production tree assemblies, particularly when the production tree is a so-called “dry tree”, i.e. a production tree located in, on, or forming part of a structure located above water level, e.g. in a so-called “offshore satellite platform”, which may be manned or unmanned.
  • dry tree i.e. a production tree located in, on, or forming part of a structure located above water level, e.g. in a so-called “offshore satellite platform”, which may be manned or unmanned.
  • valve apparatus for a production assembly, the valve apparatus comprising:
  • control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit
  • the actuator is electrically operable.
  • Provision of an electrically operable actuator may permit the valve apparatus to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated valve assembly. Such a valve apparatus may also reduce the total number of parts required in the valve apparatus, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability.
  • Reduction in the required amount of maintenance may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform, as the size of the platform required to accommodate the valve apparatus may be reduced.
  • an unmanned production assembly e.g. an unmanned satellite platform
  • the valve apparatus may be devoid of hydraulic actuation.
  • the valve apparatus may comprise one or more actuators.
  • Each actuator may be and/or may comprise an electrically operable actuator.
  • the production assembly may comprise or may be a hydrocarbons production assembly.
  • the production assembly may comprise or may be a production tree or so- called "Christmas tree”.
  • the production assembly may comprise the valve apparatus.
  • the production assembly may be located above water level.
  • the production assembly may comprise a surface production assembly.
  • the production assembly may comprise and/or may be a so-called “dry tree”.
  • the production assembly may comprise and/or may be provided on an offshore platform, e.g. on a so-called “offshore satellite platform”.
  • the production tree may comprise the valve apparatus.
  • the production assembly may be connected to and/or may be placed on a wellhead.
  • the wellhead may provide structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components such as casing, liners, tubing, etc.
  • the wellhead may be located distal from the seabed, e.g. at surface, for example on a/the offshore platform.
  • the wellhead may be termed a surface wellhead.
  • the production assembly may comprise an export riser, e.g. a marine riser, extending between the well and the wellhead, production tree, dry tree and/or offshore platform.
  • the production assembly may comprise a conductor, casings and production tubing connected to the wellhead.
  • the wellhead may be provided near or on the seabed.
  • the wellhead may be termed a mudline wellhead.
  • the production assembly may comprise a riser, e.g. a marine riser, extending between the wellhead and the production tree, dry tree and/or offshore platform.
  • the production assembly may comprise a workover riser or production tubing which may be provided inside the riser.
  • the production assembly may comprise one or more conduits configured to allow and/or direct flow of a fluid, e.g. hydrocarbons, therethrough.
  • a fluid e.g. hydrocarbons
  • the valve apparatus may comprise one or more control valves.
  • One or more conduits may comprise and/or may be associated with one control valve.
  • One or more conduits may comprise and/or may be associated with a plurality of control valves.
  • One or more control valves may be actuated by one or more electrically operable actuators.
  • each control valve may be actuated by one or more electrically operable actuators.
  • the electrically operable actuator(s) may be connected to and/or may be associated with at least one electrical power source.
  • the valve apparatus may comprise at least one electrical power source. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one electrical power source may be provided separately of the valve apparatus.
  • the production assembly e.g. production tree, dry tree, offshore platform, and/or associated host platform may comprise at least one electrical power source.
  • the electrically operable actuator(s) may be connected to and/or may be associated with at least one electrical power source via electrical connections such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like.
  • At least one electrical power source may comprise a renewable electrical power source, e.g. wind turbine, tidal turbine, photovoltaic device, power cable supply, or the like. At least one electrical power source may comprise a non-renewable electrical power source, e.g. fuel generator, diesel generator, or the like.
  • a renewable electrical power source e.g. wind turbine, tidal turbine, photovoltaic device, power cable supply, or the like.
  • At least one electrical power source may comprise a non-renewable electrical power source, e.g. fuel generator, diesel generator, or the like.
  • At least one electrically operable actuator may be connected to and/or associated with a control device.
  • the control device may be manually operable.
  • a user may be capable of manually operating at least one actuator.
  • the control device may be automatically operable, e.g. may comprise an electronic control device, a computer, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), or the like. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
  • an unmanned production assembly e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
  • the production assembly and/or valve apparatus may comprise the control device.
  • the control device may be operable remotely, e.g. may comprises remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, fibre optics, receiver and/or transmitter.
  • remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, fibre optics, receiver and/or transmitter.
  • At least one actuator may be associated with, may control, may comprise and/or may be a motor. Upon operation of an actuator, the/an associated motor may actuate an associated control valve.
  • the control device may be configured to control, e.g. manually and/or automatically control, supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more actuators.
  • the valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration, e.g. under predetermined conditions.
  • the valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration when an associated actuator is supplied with electrical power, e.g. by an associated electrical power source.
  • the valve apparatus may be configured to close at least one control valve when supply of electrical power to an associated actuator is stopped. By such provision, should power supply to one or more actuators fail, e.g. by failure of the electrical power source, electrical connections, or the like, an associated control valve will close.
  • This mechanism may be described as a "safety" or “fail safe” mechanism. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
  • the valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit. For example, the valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold.
  • the control device may be configured to supply electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more actuators when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold.
  • the valve apparatus may be configured to close at least one control valve under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit, e.g. when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold.
  • the control device may be configured to stop supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more actuators when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold.
  • the valve apparatus may be configured to adjust, move and/or control the control valve, e.g. to/in a position intermediate the open and closed configurations.
  • the valve apparatus may be capable of regulating flow of a fluid through the conduit, for example in order to maintain a desired and/or predetermined flow rate.
  • the well barrier apparatus may be connected to and/or may be provided within the well.
  • the well may comprise the well barrier apparatus.
  • the well barrier apparatus may be provided below the seabed, below an upper portion of the well, and/or below the wellhead.
  • the well barrier may comprise and/or may be described as a Subsurface Safety Valve ("SSSV") apparatus.
  • SSSV Subsurface Safety Valve
  • a well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may be described as an apparatus which may seal the well and/or may prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well, for example in case of catastrophic failure of the wellhead and/or of the production tree, e.g. Christmas tree.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may be configured to seal the well and/or prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well in case of failure of the valve apparatus and/or wellhead.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may comprise one or more Subsurface Safety Valves (SSSV).
  • SSSV Subsurface Safety Valves
  • One of more SSSVs may be hydraulically actuated.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may comprise and/or may be associated with a hydraulic fluid source configured to actuate at least one SSSV.
  • Hydraulic fluid may be supplied to at least one SSSV, e.g. through an umbilical which may extends from a hydraulic fluid source to the at least one SSSV.
  • the hydraulic fluid source may be provided on or in a production assembly, Christmas tree, dry tree, satellite platform, associated host platform, floating structure, vessel, or the like.
  • an increase in fluid flow through the well e.g. as a result of catastrophic failure of the wellhead and/or production assembly, may cause hydrocarbon pressure inside the well to exceed hydraulic pressure to the SSSV, which may cause the SSSV to close the well, thus preventing or limiting discharge of hydrocarbons into the environment.
  • One or more SSSVs may be electrically activated.
  • One or more SSSVs may be actuated by one or more electrically operable
  • each SSSV may be actuated by one or more electrically operable SSSV actuators.
  • the electrically operable SSSV actuator(s) may be connected to and/or associated with at least one electrical power source.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may comprise at least one electrical power source. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one electrical power source may be provided separately of the well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus.
  • the production assembly e.g. production tree, dry tree, satellite platform, and/or associated host platform may comprise at least one electrical power source.
  • the at least one electrical power source may be the same as or may be different from the at least one electrical power source used with the valve apparatus.
  • the electrically operable SSSV actuator(s) may be connected to and/or may be associated with at least one electrical power source via electrical connections such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like, which may be provided within and/or may form part of an umbilical.
  • At least one electrical power source may comprise a renewable electrical power source, e.g. wind turbine, tidal turbine, photovoltaic device, or the like. At least one electrical power source may comprise a non-renewable electrical power source, e.g. fuel generator, diesel generator, or the like.
  • At least one electrically operable SSSV actuator may be connected to and/or associated with a control device.
  • the control device may be the same as or may be different from the control device used with the valve apparatus.
  • the control device may be manually operable.
  • a user may be capable of manually operating at least one SSSV actuator.
  • the control device may be automatically operable, e.g. may comprise an electronic control device, a computer, or the like. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
  • the well barrier apparatus, SSSV apparatus, production assembly, associated host platform, and/or valve apparatus may comprise the control device.
  • the control device may be operable remotely, e.g. may comprises remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, receiver and/or transmitter.
  • remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, receiver and/or transmitter.
  • At least one SSSV actuator may be associated with, may control, may comprise and/or may be a motor. Upon operation of an SSSV actuator, the/an associated motor may actuate an associated SSSV.
  • the control device may be configured to control, e.g. manually and/or automatically control, supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more SSSV actuators.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration, e.g. under predetermined conditions.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration when an associated SSSV actuator is supplied with electrical power, e.g. by an associated electrical power source.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to close at least one SSSV when supply of electrical power to an associated actuator is stopped.
  • This mechanism may be described as a "safety” or “fail safe” mechanism. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit, e.g. in the well.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold.
  • the control device may be configured to supply electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more SSSV actuators when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to close at least one SSSV under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit, e.g. in the well, when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold.
  • the control device may be configured to stop supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more SSSV actuators when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to adjust, move and/or control the SSSV, e.g. to/in a position intermediate the open and closed configurations.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be capable of regulating flow of a fluid, e.g. hydrocarbons, through the well, for example in order to maintain a desired and/or predetermined flow rate.
  • a production assembly comprising a valve apparatus, the valve apparatus comprising: a control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit; and
  • the actuator is electrically operable.
  • the valve apparatus may comprise and/or may be a valve apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention.
  • a well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus for use in a wellbore, the well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus comprising:
  • SSSV Subsurface Safety Valve
  • an SSSV actuator configured for actuating the SSSV, wherein the SSSV actuator is electrically operable.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may be configured to seal the well and/or prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well, for example in case of catastrophic failure of the wellhead and/or of the production tree, e.g. Christmas tree.
  • Provision of an electrically operable SSSV actuator may permit the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus.
  • Such a well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may also reduce the total number of parts required in the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability.
  • the well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus may further comprise and/or may be used in combination with a valve apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention and/or a production assembly according to a second aspect of the present invention.
  • a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a production assembly, comprising providing a valve apparatus comprising a control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit, and an actuator configured for actuating the control valve,
  • the actuator is electrically operable.
  • the method may comprise electrically operating the actuator.
  • a method for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a wellbore comprising providing a Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV) configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a wellbore; and an SSSV actuator configured for actuating the SSSV, wherein the SSSV actuator is electrically operable.
  • SSSV Subsurface Safety Valve
  • the method may comprise electrically operating the SSSV actuator.
  • Figure 1 shows an offshore satellite platform according to the prior art
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view of a production assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view of a production assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG 1 is an offshore satellite platform, generally identified by reference numeral 10, according to the prior art.
  • the platform 10 is a Normally Unmanned Platform or Normally Unmanned Installation (NUI).
  • NUI Normally Unmanned platforms are typically designed to be as simple as possible, and may be devoid of components such as a helideck or an emergency shelter which may typically be found on much larger manned platforms.
  • the platform 10 is of very small size in the context of offshore platforms.
  • the platform 10 may be connected to the wellhead via a riser structure 16.
  • the platform 10 typically accommodates a production tree or "dry tree” and a panel located at deck level 15 on the platform configured to operate and control hydraulic actuation of the valve system of the production tree.
  • the panel typically comprises a hydraulic oil reservoir (so-called “oil sump” for storing the oil), hydraulic pumps, hydraulic accumulators (configured to pressurise the oil), and valves such as solenoid electrically operated valves (not shown).
  • oil sump for storing the oil
  • hydraulic pumps for storing the oil
  • hydraulic accumulators configured to pressurise the oil
  • valves such as solenoid electrically operated valves (not shown).
  • the panel may also be configured to operate and control hydraulic actuation of the Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus located in the well (not shown) below surface.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a production assembly, generally identified by reference numeral 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the production assembly 100 comprises a production tree 120 in the form of a Christmas tree or "dry tree", for producing hydrocarbons from a subsea reservoir.
  • the production tree 120 is located above sea level on an offshore platform 1 10, which may be similar to the offshore satellite platform 10 of Figure 1 , like part being denoted by like numerals, incremented by "100".
  • the hydrocarbons may be stored in a storage apparatus 125.
  • the production assembly 100 comprises a surface wellhead 150 which is provided on the platform 1 10.
  • the production assembly 100 comprises a rising structure 140 in the form of conductor, casings and production tubing, extending between the seabed 152 and the platform 1 10.
  • the production assembly 100 comprises a conduit 134 in the form of casings and production tubing which is provided inside the rising structure 140.
  • the wellhead 150 may be a mudline wellhead located on the seabed 152 near an upper portion of the well 154 and may provide structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components 156 such as casing, liners, etc.
  • the production assembly may comprise a riser structure extending between the wellhead and the platform, and may comprise a conduit in the form of a production tubing which may be provided inside the riser.
  • the production tree 120 comprises a valve apparatus 130.
  • the valve apparatus 130 comprises a control valve 132 configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through the conduit or production tubing 134, and an actuator 136 configured for actuating the control valve 132.
  • the actuator 136 is electrically operable. Provision of an electrically operable actuator 136 may permit the valve apparatus 130 to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated valve assembly. Such a valve apparatus 130 may also reduce the total number of parts required in the valve apparatus 130, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability.
  • valve apparatus 130 is devoid of hydraulic actuation.
  • valve apparatus 130 has been illustrated in Figure 2 with one valve 132 and one actuator 136, and the production tree 120 with one conduit or production tubing 134.
  • the production tree 120 may comprise several conduits or production tubings 134, and that each conduit or production tubing 134 may be associated with one or more valves 132 and actuators 136.
  • each control valve 132 is actuated by one or more electrically operable actuators 136.
  • the electrically operable actuator 136 is connected to and/or is associated with at least one electrical power source 160.
  • the electrical power source 160 is located on the platform 1 10.
  • the electrically operable actuator 136 is connected to the electrical power source 160 via electrical connections 162 such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like.
  • the electrically operable actuator 136 is connected to and/or associated with a control device 164.
  • the control device 164 may be manually operable and/or automatically operable.
  • the control device 164 is automatically operable and comprises a computer system 166, and is also equipped with a manual override.
  • the control device 164 may be operable remotely, e.g. by remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, fibre optics, receiver and/or transmitter.
  • remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, fibre optics, receiver and/or transmitter.
  • the actuator 136 comprises an electrical motor which is capable of actuating valve 132.
  • control device 164 is configured to control, e.g. manually and/or automatically control, supply of electrical power from the electrical power source 160 to the actuator 136.
  • the valve apparatus 130 is configured to maintain the control valve 132 in an open configuration when the associated actuator 136 is supplied with electrical power from electrical power source 160.
  • the valve apparatus 130 is configured to close the control valve 132 when supply of electrical power from electrical power source 160 is stopped. By such provision, should power supply to the actuator 136 fail, e.g. by failure of the electrical power source 160, electrical connections 162, or the like, the control valve 132 will automatically close.
  • This mechanism may be described as a "safety” or “fail safe” mechanism. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned satellite platform 1 10.
  • a well barrier apparatus 170 in the form of a Subsurface Safety Valve ("SSSV") apparatus.
  • the well barrier apparatus 170 acts to seal the well 154 and/or prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well 154, for example in case of catastrophic failure of the wellhead 150 and/or of the production tree 120, e.g. in the event that the riser 140 should become detached from the well 154, or in the event that the riser 140 should become detached from the wellhead 150.
  • SSSV Subsurface Safety Valve
  • the well barrier apparatus 170 is provided inside and near an upper portion of the well 154, below the seabed 152.
  • the well barrier apparatus 170 comprises one or more Subsurface Safety Valves (SSSV) 172.
  • SSSV Subsurface Safety Valves
  • the SSSV 172 is hydraulically actuated. Hydraulic actuation is operated using a hydraulic system 190.
  • the hydraulic system 190 comprises a hydraulic fluid source configured to actuate the SSSV 172. Hydraulic fluid may be supplied to the SSSV 172 through a connection 192 such as an umbilical 192 extending from the hydraulic fluid source in the hydraulic system 190 to the SSSV 172, for example through an annulus (not shown) in the riser 140 .
  • the hydraulic system 190 is provided on the satellite platform 1 10. In use, an increase in fluid flow through the well 154, e.g.
  • hydrocarbon pressure inside the well 154 may exceed hydraulic pressure to the SSSV 172, which may cause the SSSV 172 to close the well 154, thus preventing or limiting discharge of hydrocarbons into the environment.
  • the SSSV 172 may be electrically activated.
  • the SSSV may be actuated by one or more electrically operable SSSV actuators connected to at least one electrical power source which may be the same or different from electric power source 160.
  • the electrically operable SSSV actuator may be connected to electrical power source via electrical connections (now shown) such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like.
  • the electrical actuation of such an electrically activated SSSV may be similar to electrical actuation of the control valve 132 of the valve apparatus 130 described above.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view of a production assembly, generally identified by reference numeral 200, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the production assembly 200 of Figure 3 is generally similar to the production assembly 100 of Figure 2, like part being denoted by like numerals, incremented by "100". However, in this embodiment, the production assembly 200 further comprises a host platform 201 associated with the offshore platform 210.
  • the host platform 201 is typically manned.
  • the host platform 201 may typically be connected and/or associated with a plurality of unmanned satellite platforms 210, although only one satellite platform 210 is shown in Figure 3 for simplicity.
  • the host platform 201 typically comprises at least some of the controls and supplies necessary to operate and/or service the satellite platform 210. This may help significantly reduce the investment costs, maintenance costs, and/or operational costs associated with the overall production assembly 200.
  • the host platform 201 comprises the hydraulic system 290 operating the SSSV 272.
  • the hydraulic system 290 is connected to the SSSV 272 by connection 292 provided via an umbilical 205.
  • the host platform also comprises the electrical power source 260, control device 264 and computer system 266 associated with the electrically operable actuator 236 operating the control valve 232.
  • the electrically operable actuator 236 is connected to the power source 260 by electrical connections 262 provided via an umbilical 205.
  • Hydrocarbons produced by the satellite platform may be stored in a storage apparatus 225, or may be transported to the host platform via pipes and or connections (not shown).
  • the wellhead may be located on the seabed near an upper portion of the well and may provide structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components 156 such as casing, liners, etc.
  • the production assembly may comprise a riser structure extending between the wellhead and the platform.
  • the production assembly may comprise a conduit in the form of a production tubing which may be provided inside the riser.
  • the SSSV apparatus 170 illustrated in Figure 2 has been described in respect of hydraulic actuation, it will be appreciated that, in another embodiment, the SSSV apparatus 170 may be electrically actuated.

Abstract

A valve apparatus (130) for a production assembly (100) comprises a control valve (132) configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit (134); and an actuator (136) configured for actuating the control valve (132), wherein the actuator (136) is electrically operable. Provision of an electrically operable actuator may permit the valve apparatus (130) to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated valve assembly. Such a valve apparatus (130) may also reduce the total number of parts required in the valve apparatus, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.

Description

Electrical Wellhead Shutdown System
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to apparatuses and methods for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a production structure, and in particular, though not exclusively, to apparatuses and methods for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of an offshore production platform.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
Offshore production assemblies typically comprise a number of components including, but not limited to:
a well extending below the seabed to a hydrocarbons reservoir;
a wellhead typically located at well upper portion and/or near the seabed and providing structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components such as casing, liners, tubing, etc;
a production tree or so-called "Christmas tree" whose primary function is to control the flow of hydrocarbons out of the well. The "Christmas tree" is typically connected to and/or placed on the wellhead.
Production trees typically comprise an array of valves and/or actuators configured to control flow of reservoir fluids (e.g. hydrocarbons) by permitting opening and/or closure of one or more conduits carrying hydrocarbons from the well to a discharge location.
In offshore production environments, the production tree typically comprises hydraulically operated shutdown valves and/or actuators. The shutdown valves and/or actuators of the production tree are typically operated by pressurised hydraulic oil supplied by hydraulic pumps.
Such hydraulically operated production tree systems typically include a panel containing a hydraulic oil reservoir (so-called "oil sump" for storing the oil), hydraulic pumps, filters, hydraulic accumulators (configured to pressurise the oil), and valves such as solenoid electrically operated valves. The solenoid electrically operated valves typically control or operate spring loaded hydraulic actuators. The actuators may be forced open by the hydraulic pressure provided by the hydraulic accumulators. In order to close the shutdown valves, the solenoid valve is electrically opened, thus releasing pressure and draining the hydraulic oil back into the hydraulic oil reservoir when the spring closes the valve. Such a production tree shutdown system can typically have a size in the region of 3m x 0.5m x 2m. Such a complex and large apparatus may be problematic in production tree assemblies, particularly when the production tree is a so-called "dry tree", i.e. a production tree located in, on, or forming part of a structure located above water level, e.g. in a so-called "offshore satellite platform", which may be manned or unmanned.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a valve apparatus for a production assembly, the valve apparatus comprising:
a control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit; and
an actuator configured for actuating the control valve,
wherein the actuator is electrically operable.
Provision of an electrically operable actuator may permit the valve apparatus to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated valve assembly. Such a valve apparatus may also reduce the total number of parts required in the valve apparatus, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability.
Reduction in the required amount of maintenance may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform, as the size of the platform required to accommodate the valve apparatus may be reduced.
The valve apparatus may be devoid of hydraulic actuation. The valve apparatus may comprise one or more actuators. Each actuator may be and/or may comprise an electrically operable actuator.
The production assembly may comprise or may be a hydrocarbons production assembly. The production assembly may comprise or may be a production tree or so- called "Christmas tree".
The production assembly may comprise the valve apparatus.
The production assembly may be located above water level. The production assembly may comprise a surface production assembly. The production assembly may comprise and/or may be a so-called "dry tree". The production assembly may comprise and/or may be provided on an offshore platform, e.g. on a so-called "offshore satellite platform". The production tree may comprise the valve apparatus. Typically, the production assembly may be connected to and/or may be placed on a wellhead. The wellhead may provide structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components such as casing, liners, tubing, etc.
The wellhead may be located distal from the seabed, e.g. at surface, for example on a/the offshore platform. In such instance, the wellhead may be termed a surface wellhead. The production assembly may comprise an export riser, e.g. a marine riser, extending between the well and the wellhead, production tree, dry tree and/or offshore platform. The production assembly may comprise a conductor, casings and production tubing connected to the wellhead.
The wellhead may be provided near or on the seabed. In such instance, the wellhead may be termed a mudline wellhead. The production assembly may comprise a riser, e.g. a marine riser, extending between the wellhead and the production tree, dry tree and/or offshore platform. The production assembly may comprise a workover riser or production tubing which may be provided inside the riser.
The production assembly may comprise one or more conduits configured to allow and/or direct flow of a fluid, e.g. hydrocarbons, therethrough.
The valve apparatus may comprise one or more control valves.
One or more conduits may comprise and/or may be associated with one control valve. One or more conduits may comprise and/or may be associated with a plurality of control valves.
One or more control valves may be actuated by one or more electrically operable actuators. In one embodiment, each control valve may be actuated by one or more electrically operable actuators.
The electrically operable actuator(s) may be connected to and/or may be associated with at least one electrical power source. The valve apparatus may comprise at least one electrical power source. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one electrical power source may be provided separately of the valve apparatus. The production assembly, e.g. production tree, dry tree, offshore platform, and/or associated host platform may comprise at least one electrical power source.
The electrically operable actuator(s) may be connected to and/or may be associated with at least one electrical power source via electrical connections such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like.
At least one electrical power source may comprise a renewable electrical power source, e.g. wind turbine, tidal turbine, photovoltaic device, power cable supply, or the like. At least one electrical power source may comprise a non-renewable electrical power source, e.g. fuel generator, diesel generator, or the like.
At least one electrically operable actuator may be connected to and/or associated with a control device.
The control device may be manually operable. By such provision, a user may be capable of manually operating at least one actuator.
The control device may be automatically operable, e.g. may comprise an electronic control device, a computer, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), or the like. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
The production assembly and/or valve apparatus may comprise the control device.
The control device may be operable remotely, e.g. may comprises remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, fibre optics, receiver and/or transmitter. By such provision, a user may be capable of controlling and/or operating the control valve remotely, which may be particularly useful on an unmanned platform environment.
At least one actuator may be associated with, may control, may comprise and/or may be a motor. Upon operation of an actuator, the/an associated motor may actuate an associated control valve.
The control device may be configured to control, e.g. manually and/or automatically control, supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more actuators.
The valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration, e.g. under predetermined conditions.
The valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration when an associated actuator is supplied with electrical power, e.g. by an associated electrical power source.
The valve apparatus may be configured to close at least one control valve when supply of electrical power to an associated actuator is stopped. By such provision, should power supply to one or more actuators fail, e.g. by failure of the electrical power source, electrical connections, or the like, an associated control valve will close. This mechanism may be described as a "safety" or "fail safe" mechanism. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform. The valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit. For example, the valve apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold. The control device may be configured to supply electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more actuators when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold.
The valve apparatus may be configured to close at least one control valve under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit, e.g. when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold. The control device may be configured to stop supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more actuators when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold.
The valve apparatus may be configured to adjust, move and/or control the control valve, e.g. to/in a position intermediate the open and closed configurations. By such provision, the valve apparatus may be capable of regulating flow of a fluid through the conduit, for example in order to maintain a desired and/or predetermined flow rate.
There may be provided a well barrier apparatus. The well barrier apparatus may be connected to and/or may be provided within the well. The well may comprise the well barrier apparatus.
The well barrier apparatus may be provided below the seabed, below an upper portion of the well, and/or below the wellhead.
The well barrier may comprise and/or may be described as a Subsurface Safety Valve ("SSSV") apparatus.
A well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may be described as an apparatus which may seal the well and/or may prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well, for example in case of catastrophic failure of the wellhead and/or of the production tree, e.g. Christmas tree.
The well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may be configured to seal the well and/or prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well in case of failure of the valve apparatus and/or wellhead.
The well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may comprise one or more Subsurface Safety Valves (SSSV).
One of more SSSVs may be hydraulically actuated. The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may comprise and/or may be associated with a hydraulic fluid source configured to actuate at least one SSSV. Hydraulic fluid may be supplied to at least one SSSV, e.g. through an umbilical which may extends from a hydraulic fluid source to the at least one SSSV. The hydraulic fluid source may be provided on or in a production assembly, Christmas tree, dry tree, satellite platform, associated host platform, floating structure, vessel, or the like. In use, an increase in fluid flow through the well, e.g. as a result of catastrophic failure of the wellhead and/or production assembly, may cause hydrocarbon pressure inside the well to exceed hydraulic pressure to the SSSV, which may cause the SSSV to close the well, thus preventing or limiting discharge of hydrocarbons into the environment.
One or more SSSVs may be electrically activated.
One or more SSSVs may be actuated by one or more electrically operable
SSSV actuators. In one embodiment, each SSSV may be actuated by one or more electrically operable SSSV actuators.
The electrically operable SSSV actuator(s) may be connected to and/or associated with at least one electrical power source. The well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may comprise at least one electrical power source. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one electrical power source may be provided separately of the well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus. The production assembly, e.g. production tree, dry tree, satellite platform, and/or associated host platform may comprise at least one electrical power source.
The at least one electrical power source may be the same as or may be different from the at least one electrical power source used with the valve apparatus.
The electrically operable SSSV actuator(s) may be connected to and/or may be associated with at least one electrical power source via electrical connections such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like, which may be provided within and/or may form part of an umbilical.
At least one electrical power source may comprise a renewable electrical power source, e.g. wind turbine, tidal turbine, photovoltaic device, or the like. At least one electrical power source may comprise a non-renewable electrical power source, e.g. fuel generator, diesel generator, or the like.
At least one electrically operable SSSV actuator may be connected to and/or associated with a control device.
The control device may be the same as or may be different from the control device used with the valve apparatus.
The control device may be manually operable. By such provision, a user may be capable of manually operating at least one SSSV actuator. The control device may be automatically operable, e.g. may comprise an electronic control device, a computer, or the like. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
The well barrier apparatus, SSSV apparatus, production assembly, associated host platform, and/or valve apparatus may comprise the control device.
The control device may be operable remotely, e.g. may comprises remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, receiver and/or transmitter. By such provision, a user may be capable of controlling and/or operating the SSSV remotely, which may be particularly useful on an unmanned platform environment.
At least one SSSV actuator may be associated with, may control, may comprise and/or may be a motor. Upon operation of an SSSV actuator, the/an associated motor may actuate an associated SSSV.
The control device may be configured to control, e.g. manually and/or automatically control, supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more SSSV actuators.
The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration, e.g. under predetermined conditions.
The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration when an associated SSSV actuator is supplied with electrical power, e.g. by an associated electrical power source.
The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to close at least one SSSV when supply of electrical power to an associated actuator is stopped. By such provision, should power supply to one or more SSSV actuators fail, e.g. by failure of the electrical power source, electrical connections, or the like, an associated SSSV will close. This mechanism may be described as a "safety" or "fail safe" mechanism. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform.
The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit, e.g. in the well. For example, the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold. The control device may be configured to supply electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more SSSV actuators when the fluid flow rate is under a predetermined threshold.
The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to close at least one SSSV under a predetermined fluid flow rate in an associated conduit, e.g. in the well, when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold. The control device may be configured to stop supply of electrical power, e.g. from at least one electrical power source, to one or more SSSV actuators when the fluid flow rate is above a predetermined threshold.
The well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be configured to adjust, move and/or control the SSSV, e.g. to/in a position intermediate the open and closed configurations. By such provision, the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus may be capable of regulating flow of a fluid, e.g. hydrocarbons, through the well, for example in order to maintain a desired and/or predetermined flow rate.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a production assembly comprising a valve apparatus, the valve apparatus comprising: a control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit; and
an actuator configured for actuating the control valve,
wherein the actuator is electrically operable.
The valve apparatus may comprise and/or may be a valve apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention.
The features described in relation to any other aspect or the invention, can apply in respect of the assembly according to a second aspect of the present invention, and are therefore not repeated here for brevity. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus for use in a wellbore, the well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus comprising:
a Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV) configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a wellbore; and
an SSSV actuator configured for actuating the SSSV, wherein the SSSV actuator is electrically operable.
The well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may be configured to seal the well and/or prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well, for example in case of catastrophic failure of the wellhead and/or of the production tree, e.g. Christmas tree.
Provision of an electrically operable SSSV actuator may permit the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus. Such a well barrier apparatus and/or a SSSV apparatus may also reduce the total number of parts required in the well barrier apparatus and/or SSSV apparatus, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability.
The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus may further comprise and/or may be used in combination with a valve apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention and/or a production assembly according to a second aspect of the present invention.
The features described in relation to any other aspect or the invention, can apply in respect of the apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention, and are therefore not repeated here for brevity. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a production assembly, comprising providing a valve apparatus comprising a control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit, and an actuator configured for actuating the control valve,
wherein the actuator is electrically operable.
The method may comprise electrically operating the actuator.
The features described in relation to any other aspect or the invention, can apply in respect of the method according to a fourth aspect of the present invention, and are therefore not repeated here for brevity.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a wellbore, comprising providing a Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV) configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a wellbore; and an SSSV actuator configured for actuating the SSSV, wherein the SSSV actuator is electrically operable.
The method may comprise electrically operating the SSSV actuator.
The features described in relation to any other aspect or the invention, can apply in respect of the method according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, and are therefore not repeated here for brevity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 shows an offshore satellite platform according to the prior art;
Figure 2 is a schematic view of a production assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 3 is a schematic view of a production assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is an offshore satellite platform, generally identified by reference numeral 10, according to the prior art. In this embodiment, the platform 10 is a Normally Unmanned Platform or Normally Unmanned Installation (NUI). Normally unmanned platforms are typically designed to be as simple as possible, and may be devoid of components such as a helideck or an emergency shelter which may typically be found on much larger manned platforms. As a result, the platform 10 is of very small size in the context of offshore platforms.
The platform 10 may be connected to the wellhead via a riser structure 16. The platform 10 typically accommodates a production tree or "dry tree" and a panel located at deck level 15 on the platform configured to operate and control hydraulic actuation of the valve system of the production tree.
The panel typically comprises a hydraulic oil reservoir (so-called "oil sump" for storing the oil), hydraulic pumps, hydraulic accumulators (configured to pressurise the oil), and valves such as solenoid electrically operated valves (not shown).
The panel may also be configured to operate and control hydraulic actuation of the Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus located in the well (not shown) below surface.
Hydraulic actuation may be performed via an umbilical 18 which, in this embodiment, is attached to the riser 16. Figure 2 is a schematic view of a production assembly, generally identified by reference numeral 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in Figure 2, the production assembly 100 comprises a production tree 120 in the form of a Christmas tree or "dry tree", for producing hydrocarbons from a subsea reservoir. The production tree 120 is located above sea level on an offshore platform 1 10, which may be similar to the offshore satellite platform 10 of Figure 1 , like part being denoted by like numerals, incremented by "100". The hydrocarbons may be stored in a storage apparatus 125.
In this embodiment, the production assembly 100 comprises a surface wellhead 150 which is provided on the platform 1 10. The production assembly 100 comprises a rising structure 140 in the form of conductor, casings and production tubing, extending between the seabed 152 and the platform 1 10. The production assembly 100 comprises a conduit 134 in the form of casings and production tubing which is provided inside the rising structure 140.
In an alternative embodiment, the wellhead 150 may be a mudline wellhead located on the seabed 152 near an upper portion of the well 154 and may provide structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components 156 such as casing, liners, etc. In such instance, the production assembly may comprise a riser structure extending between the wellhead and the platform, and may comprise a conduit in the form of a production tubing which may be provided inside the riser.
The production tree 120 comprises a valve apparatus 130. The valve apparatus 130 comprises a control valve 132 configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through the conduit or production tubing 134, and an actuator 136 configured for actuating the control valve 132.
In this embodiment, the actuator 136 is electrically operable. Provision of an electrically operable actuator 136 may permit the valve apparatus 130 to be more simple, more compact, and/or less onerous, for example when compared to an equivalent hydraulically operated valve assembly. Such a valve apparatus 130 may also reduce the total number of parts required in the valve apparatus 130, thus potentially reducing maintenance, and improving responsiveness and reliability.
Reduction in the required amount of maintenance is particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned production assembly, e.g. an unmanned satellite platform 1 10, as the size of the platform 1 10 required to accommodate the valve apparatus may be reduced. In this embodiment, the valve apparatus 130 is devoid of hydraulic actuation.
For simplicity, the valve apparatus 130 has been illustrated in Figure 2 with one valve 132 and one actuator 136, and the production tree 120 with one conduit or production tubing 134. However, it will be appreciated that the production tree 120 may comprise several conduits or production tubings 134, and that each conduit or production tubing 134 may be associated with one or more valves 132 and actuators 136.
In one embodiment, each control valve 132 is actuated by one or more electrically operable actuators 136.
The electrically operable actuator 136 is connected to and/or is associated with at least one electrical power source 160. In this embodiment, the electrical power source 160 is located on the platform 1 10.
The electrically operable actuator 136 is connected to the electrical power source 160 via electrical connections 162 such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like.
The electrically operable actuator 136 is connected to and/or associated with a control device 164. The control device 164 may be manually operable and/or automatically operable. In this embodiment, the control device 164 is automatically operable and comprises a computer system 166, and is also equipped with a manual override. The control device 164 may be operable remotely, e.g. by remote communication means such as Bluetooth, infrared, radio waves, satellite communication, fibre optics, receiver and/or transmitter. By such provision, a user may be capable of controlling and/or operating the control valve 132 remotely, which may be particularly useful on an unmanned platform environment such as satellite platform 1 10.
In this embodiment, the actuator 136 comprises an electrical motor which is capable of actuating valve 132.
In this embodiment, the control device 164 is configured to control, e.g. manually and/or automatically control, supply of electrical power from the electrical power source 160 to the actuator 136.
The valve apparatus 130 is configured to maintain the control valve 132 in an open configuration when the associated actuator 136 is supplied with electrical power from electrical power source 160. The valve apparatus 130 is configured to close the control valve 132 when supply of electrical power from electrical power source 160 is stopped. By such provision, should power supply to the actuator 136 fail, e.g. by failure of the electrical power source 160, electrical connections 162, or the like, the control valve 132 will automatically close. This mechanism may be described as a "safety" or "fail safe" mechanism. This may be particularly advantageous in an unmanned environment such as an unmanned satellite platform 1 10.
As shown in Figure 2, there is provided a well barrier apparatus 170 in the form of a Subsurface Safety Valve ("SSSV") apparatus. The well barrier apparatus 170 acts to seal the well 154 and/or prevent discharge of hydrocarbons from the well 154, for example in case of catastrophic failure of the wellhead 150 and/or of the production tree 120, e.g. in the event that the riser 140 should become detached from the well 154, or in the event that the riser 140 should become detached from the wellhead 150.
The well barrier apparatus 170 is provided inside and near an upper portion of the well 154, below the seabed 152.
The well barrier apparatus 170 comprises one or more Subsurface Safety Valves (SSSV) 172.
In this embodiment, the SSSV 172 is hydraulically actuated. Hydraulic actuation is operated using a hydraulic system 190. The hydraulic system 190 comprises a hydraulic fluid source configured to actuate the SSSV 172. Hydraulic fluid may be supplied to the SSSV 172 through a connection 192 such as an umbilical 192 extending from the hydraulic fluid source in the hydraulic system 190 to the SSSV 172, for example through an annulus (not shown) in the riser 140 . In this embodiment, the hydraulic system 190 is provided on the satellite platform 1 10. In use, an increase in fluid flow through the well 154, e.g. as a result of catastrophic failure of the wellhead 150 and/or production tree 120, may cause hydrocarbon pressure inside the well 154 to exceed hydraulic pressure to the SSSV 172, which may cause the SSSV 172 to close the well 154, thus preventing or limiting discharge of hydrocarbons into the environment.
In another embodiment, the SSSV 172 may be electrically activated. For example, the SSSV may be actuated by one or more electrically operable SSSV actuators connected to at least one electrical power source which may be the same or different from electric power source 160. The electrically operable SSSV actuator may be connected to electrical power source via electrical connections (now shown) such as electrical cables, electrical wires, or the like. The electrical actuation of such an electrically activated SSSV may be similar to electrical actuation of the control valve 132 of the valve apparatus 130 described above. Figure 3 is a schematic view of a production assembly, generally identified by reference numeral 200, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The production assembly 200 of Figure 3 is generally similar to the production assembly 100 of Figure 2, like part being denoted by like numerals, incremented by "100". However, in this embodiment, the production assembly 200 further comprises a host platform 201 associated with the offshore platform 210.
The host platform 201 is typically manned. The host platform 201 may typically be connected and/or associated with a plurality of unmanned satellite platforms 210, although only one satellite platform 210 is shown in Figure 3 for simplicity. The host platform 201 typically comprises at least some of the controls and supplies necessary to operate and/or service the satellite platform 210. This may help significantly reduce the investment costs, maintenance costs, and/or operational costs associated with the overall production assembly 200.
In this embodiment, the host platform 201 comprises the hydraulic system 290 operating the SSSV 272. The hydraulic system 290 is connected to the SSSV 272 by connection 292 provided via an umbilical 205.
The host platform also comprises the electrical power source 260, control device 264 and computer system 266 associated with the electrically operable actuator 236 operating the control valve 232. The electrically operable actuator 236 is connected to the power source 260 by electrical connections 262 provided via an umbilical 205.
Hydrocarbons produced by the satellite platform may be stored in a storage apparatus 225, or may be transported to the host platform via pipes and or connections (not shown).
Various modifications may be made to the embodiments described without departing from the scope of the present invention.
For example, while the embodiments of Figures 2 and 3 describe a wellhead provided on the platform, in other embodiments, the wellhead may be located on the seabed near an upper portion of the well and may provide structural and/or sealing functionality with respect to one or more production components 156 such as casing, liners, etc. In such instance, the production assembly may comprise a riser structure extending between the wellhead and the platform. The production assembly may comprise a conduit in the form of a production tubing which may be provided inside the riser. For example, while the SSSV apparatus 170 illustrated in Figure 2 has been described in respect of hydraulic actuation, it will be appreciated that, in another embodiment, the SSSV apparatus 170 may be electrically actuated.

Claims

CLAIMS:
1 . A valve apparatus for a surface production assembly, the valve apparatus comprising:
at least one control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit; and
at least one actuator configured for actuating at least one control valve, wherein at least one actuator is electrically operable.
2. The valve apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the surface production assembly comprises a dry Christmas tree.
3. The valve apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the surface production assembly comprises and/or is provided on an offshore satellite platform.
4. The valve apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least one actuator is connected to and/or is associated with at least one electrical power source.
5. The valve apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least one actuator is connected to and/or is associated with a control device.
6. The valve apparatus of claim 5, wherein the control device is configured to control supply of electrical power from at least one electrical power source to one or more actuators.
7. The valve apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the valve apparatus is configured to maintain at least one control valve in an open configuration when an associated actuator is supplied with electrical power.
8. The valve apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the valve apparatus is configured to close at least one control valve when supply of electrical power to an associated actuator is stopped.
9. The valve apparatus of any of claims 5 to 8, wherein the control device is manually operable.
10. The valve apparatus of any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the control device is automatically operable.
1 1 . The valve apparatus of any of claims 5 to 10, wherein the control device is remotely operable.
12. The valve apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein at least one actuator is associated with, controls, and/or comprises a motor.
13. A production assembly comprising a valve apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 12.
14. A well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus for use in a wellbore, the well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus comprising:
at least one Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV) configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a wellbore; and
at least one SSSV actuator configured for actuating at least one SSSV, wherein at least one SSSV actuator is electrically operable.
15. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus of claim 14, wherein at least one SSSV actuator is connected to and/or is associated with at least one electrical power source.
16. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein at least one SSSV actuator is connected to and/or is associated with a control device.
17. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the control device is configured to control supply of electrical power from at least one electrical power source to one or more SSSV actuators.
18. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus is configured to maintain at least one SSSV in an open configuration when an associated SSSV actuator is supplied with electrical power.
19. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety
Valve apparatus is configured to close at least one SSSV when supply of electrical power to an associated SSSV actuator is stopped.
20. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claims 16 to 19, wherein the control device is manually operable.
21 . The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claims 16 to 20, wherein the control device is automatically operable.
22. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claims 16 to 21 , wherein the control device is remotely operable.
23. The well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus according to any of claims 14 to 22, wherein at least one SSSV actuator is associated with, controls, and/or comprises a motor.
24. A method for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a production assembly, comprising providing a valve apparatus comprising a control valve configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of fluid through a conduit, and an actuator configured for actuating the control valve, wherein the actuator is electrically operable.
25. A method for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a conduit of a wellbore, comprising providing a Subsurface Safety Valve (SSSV) configured for regulating and/or controlling flow of a fluid through a wellbore; and an SSSV actuator configured for actuating the SSSV, wherein the SSSV actuator is electrically operable.
26. A valve apparatus, production assembly, well barrier apparatus and/or Subsurface Safety Valve apparatus, substantially as described with reference to Figures 2 and 3.
PCT/EP2014/078712 2014-01-07 2014-12-19 Electrical wellhead shutdown system WO2015104173A2 (en)

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GB1400194.5 2014-01-07

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GB2545197A (en) * 2015-12-08 2017-06-14 Aker Solutions As Workover safety system
WO2019054882A1 (en) * 2017-09-15 2019-03-21 Equinor Energy As Offshore wellhead platform
US20200048991A1 (en) * 2018-08-09 2020-02-13 Cameron International Corporation Pressure Control Equipment Systems and Methods
US10704352B2 (en) 2015-12-08 2020-07-07 Aker Solutions As Safety system for overriding hydrocarbon control module
US10718185B2 (en) 2016-09-15 2020-07-21 Equinor Energy As Handling of hydrocarbons and equipment of an offshore platform
US10888724B2 (en) 2016-09-15 2021-01-12 Equinor Energy As Optimising fire protection for an offshore platform
US11196255B2 (en) 2017-03-10 2021-12-07 Equinor Energy As Power supply system for an offshore platform

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US5385207A (en) * 1993-06-28 1995-01-31 Texaco, Inc. Offshore well remote start-up system
US5522465A (en) * 1994-06-30 1996-06-04 Deare; Frederick L. Method and apparatus for a safety system
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US8662187B2 (en) * 2009-08-13 2014-03-04 Baker Hughes Incorporated Permanent magnet linear motor actuated safety valve and method
US9518672B2 (en) * 2010-06-21 2016-12-13 Cameron International Corporation Electronically actuated gate valve

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2545197A (en) * 2015-12-08 2017-06-14 Aker Solutions As Workover safety system
GB2545197B (en) * 2015-12-08 2019-02-20 Aker Solutions As Workover safety system
US10704352B2 (en) 2015-12-08 2020-07-07 Aker Solutions As Safety system for overriding hydrocarbon control module
US10718185B2 (en) 2016-09-15 2020-07-21 Equinor Energy As Handling of hydrocarbons and equipment of an offshore platform
US10888724B2 (en) 2016-09-15 2021-01-12 Equinor Energy As Optimising fire protection for an offshore platform
US11196255B2 (en) 2017-03-10 2021-12-07 Equinor Energy As Power supply system for an offshore platform
US11601011B2 (en) 2017-03-10 2023-03-07 Equinor Energy As Power supply system for an offshore platform
WO2019054882A1 (en) * 2017-09-15 2019-03-21 Equinor Energy As Offshore wellhead platform
GB2579985A (en) * 2017-09-15 2020-07-08 Equinor Energy As Offshore wellhead platform
GB2579985B (en) * 2017-09-15 2022-02-23 Equinor Energy As Offshore wellhead platform
US20200048991A1 (en) * 2018-08-09 2020-02-13 Cameron International Corporation Pressure Control Equipment Systems and Methods
US11078758B2 (en) * 2018-08-09 2021-08-03 Schlumberger Technology Corporation Pressure control equipment systems and methods

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