Roncador P-52 Hybrid Riser Review: Key Concepts, Construction and Installation Challenges

Abstract

The first Petrobras Hybrid Riser was installed in Campos Basin and is part of the Roncador P-52 oil export system. This system, which connects the SS platform P-52 (1800m water depth) to the fixed unit PRA-1 (100m water depth), is in operation since November 2007 comprises an 18 in diameter flowline and the Free Standing Hybrid Riser (FSHR). The FSHR is composed by a grouted foundation, 1500m of rigid steel riser, a near surface Buoyancy Can and a flexible jumper connecting the top of rigid riser to the platform. The basic design evolved almost until installation, in October 2007, due to engineering, construction and supplier restrictions.Key concepts of design and main considerations that led to this Hybrid Riser final design are reviewed. Moreover, this paper presents some of the aspects of construction and installation that influenced the implementation and some of the lessons learned are discussed. The Riser foundation and flexible jumper were free issued by Petrobras to Contractor and some of the interfaces over the design are addressed as well.This paper points out some of the key issues to be taken into consideration to improve the design of future projects and presents some important lessons learned that can be used for further studies in ultra deepwater large diameter Hybrid Risers.