Subsea developments represent several technical challenges for O&G companies. The tie-back solution has been used in the industry to exploit remote fields or connect systems directly to onshore facilities or nearby existing production facilities. As it can use existing resources/facilities, this solution may save capital and operational expenses (CAPEX and OPEX). Moreover, marginal fields may become commercially viable if they are connected to an existent platform.However, as fields are located farther away, limitations related to flow assurance, power and system distribution make it more difficult to assign resources to these projects. Systems such as power and control equipment may be located on platforms or subsea, and the choice of solutions is based on cost-saving potential, reliability and environmental care considerations. Power and control systems also have to be capable of working for long periods and functioning without interruptions. Distribution systems' study factors also concern distance from the power source to the seabed. For longer distances, the system should be designed to repeat signals from one subsea station to another.To explain some of the challenges and limitations for working subsea, a general description of power systems is provided. The study also discusses the role of system engineering in subsea projects and how it contributes to overcoming technical limitations and improving system performance. Good communication between all the groups is important and may reduce project errors and the need for rework.The study discusses some considerations that should be taken into account during the concept selection to prepare the system for current and future requirements. The type of umbilical for the power and control groups is also discussed. These are used to transmit communication and power to the system.
Applications:The paper presents the role of system engineering in subsea projects. It identifies some parameters in the system and explains the technical limitations caused by loads and power requirements in subsea projects.
Results, Observations, and Conclusions:System engineering should establish strong communication between the groups working internally in the project. They provide an overall view of the system that is critical to the optimization of resources. Decisions on where to place distribution systems depend on the location of the subsea installation as the voltage drop and power loss is proportional to the distance at which the power source is located.