MINIFLOAT: A Novel Concept of Minimal Floating Platform for Marginal Field Development

Abstract

This paper describes a new type of minimal floating offshore platform, named MINIFLOAT, suitable for developing deepwater marginal fields. The paper covers the design methodology and hydrodynamic analysis of the platform. The numerical method used to determine the floater dynamics is presented. Results of the platform response are given for a specific case. The platform described in this paper can be used in a number of ways to support various equipment used in the production of oil and gas from deep and ultra-deep water hydrocarbon fields:- support and control to a subsea wellhead, including chemical injection, hydraulic power, telecommunication- host water-injection equipment to assist field production- host first stage separation equipment to allow long offsets to hub/shore- provide power supply to heated flowlines, multiphase pumps or other subsea installations. This new concept enables safe and cost-efficient development of marginal fields in deep and ultra deep water. It allows application of advanced subsea technologies to reduce field development cost, while maintaining a surface “presence ” for reduced cost, enhanced reliability and ease of maintenance.