ABSTRACT

Riser integrity monitoring provides critical performance data during day to day operation and in extreme events. In-situ integrity monitoring improves the understanding of the complex riser behavior leading to enhancement of design practices. The paper discusses a range of methodologies for offshore riser monitoring. A review of existing and planned monitoring programs is provided with particular focus on the level of success achieved. Monitoring instrumentation and applications are discussed from the "fit for purpose" perspective, highlighting the monitoring objectives, reliability requirements and offshore operations. The paper also describes data processing methods used for screening and evaluating the collected data. The differences amongst standalone, hardwired, and acoustic data processing and further analysis of the monitoring data are discussed. Hardwired methods are focused on providing information that are relevant for making operational decisions at offshore facilities during day to day activities. Additional onshore data processing is focusing on providing information that can be used in the continuous effort to better understand riser response. In summary, the paper discusses the relative benefits and potential problems associated with hardwired, stand-alone and acoustic monitoring systems in adding value to the integrity management of deepwater risers.

NOMENCLATURE

ROV: Remotely Operated Vehicles

TDZ: Touch-down Zone

VIV: Vortex Induced Vibrations

INTRODUCTION

The offshore oil and gas industry has pushed aggressively into deeper and deeper water over the last 10 years. This is particularly true in the Gulf of Mexico, where developments are planned and sanctioned in water depths up to 9,000ft before the end of the decade. Compare this to 10 years ago, when developments planned in water depths of 5,000–7,000ft were groundbreaking and deepwater experience was limited to a few large operators and contractors. Today, many more operators are entering the deepwater arena as past deepwater developments prove successful despite the large upfront capital cost.

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