Mieras, A.A.; BP Petroleum Development Limited; United Kingdom
This paper describes the operational history to date of the Buchan Field in the British Sector of the North Sea. The development is based on subsea completions connected to a floating production facility via a subsea manifold and a tensioned multiple riser system. Stabilized crude oil is exported from the platform to a tanker via a subsea pipeline and a CALM buoy. Operational problems and successes are discussed. The Field is operated by BP Petroleum Development Limited on behalf of the Buchan Field Joint Venture Partners.
The paper concludes that even in the hostile environment of the North Sea a floating production system is a viable method of producing marginal fields. It is suggested that a purpose built platform would be a better proposition than a conversion such as was used far Buchan. Careful selection of the loading system with respect to weather conditions is essential.
The Buchan Field is Located approximately 160km ENE of Aberdeen and 55 km WNW of the Forties Field in water about 115m deep (Figure 2). It was discovered in August 1974 by the Transworld Group and Texaco, and further appraisal wells were drilled between then and 1976 to delineate the Field. BP Petroleum Development farmed into the license in early 1977 and took over as Operator of the development. The bulk of the Field lies within Block 21/1 with an extension into Block 20/5.
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