Common Deep Water Space Services (DWSS) include various technologies and systems. We’ll cover Mini-Tension Leg platforms (Mini-TLP), Remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and Offshore production and injection systems (FPSOs).

Mini-Tension Leg Platform (Mini-TLP)

A mini-TLP is a floating platform with a tension leg mooring system that can be used in deep water but retains the advantages of a fixed-base platform. It is more affordable and can be supported with less proven reserves while allowing the user to explore a greater depth. The platform is designed to be used in the early production phase of large deepwater discoveries.

The design of a mini-TLP is based on the fact that it is economically competitive with a compliant tower. Because the floating leg platform is supported by a series of vertical tethers, the buoyant force generated by the submerged pontoons is more significant than its deadweight load. Vertical tethers that extend from the columns moored to the ocean floor prevent it from tilting, pitching, or rolling. The horizontal motion is very compliant with the waves.

The tension leg platform is used for deep water production applications. A TLP can be deployed in water depths up to 1500 m. Its basic design allows for similar production and maintenance operations to fixed platforms, with some limitations. A conventional TLP is towed to an offshore well site and is ballasted down to connect the tendons at the four corners. The template is then joined to the floating platform deck.

Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)

ROVs are a type of mobile underwater robot. They can be shaped like underwater robots and have several payloads, including cameras and lights. They may also contain environmental sampling equipment or manipulators and robotic arms. ROV drones are helpful for various applications, including underwater pipeline construction, oil rig construction, and environmental observation and sampling. They may also be used to perform certain types of subsea tasks, such as mine countermeasures and explosive ordnance disposal.

A human operator, like those at PRT Offshore, controls an ROV via a camera. Larger ROVs have multiple cameras, which give the human operator added vision. Typically, ROVs also have lights installed at various points on their body. Sunshine can illuminate the workspace, which is essential for light work and inspection activities. However, they cannot participate in these activities without proper lighting.

ROVs can be equipped with multiple auxiliary ports, enabling them to operate various tools at once. A master controller is also available, which gives the pilot a high-precision level of control and intuitive ergonomics for manipulator operation. Additionally, ROVs may be equipped with subsea test tree, which allows multiple tools and sensors to be connected through a single port. Sonar is a good option for deepwater missions.

Offshore Production and Injection System (FPSO)

The FPSO is a floating platform currently moored in 7260ft of water in the Santos Basin, Brazil. Petrobras is currently working on the project and expects to produce oil at 10,000b/d. In addition, the company has upgraded the FPSO Cidade de Anchieta to handle the deepwater field. These upgrades include upgrading the FPSO’s injection system and adding a sulfate treatment unit.

The FPSO can handle a range of complex and challenging situations. FPSOs can process up to 100,000b/d of oil and 500,000mmcm of gas. The FPSO also can store oil and gas. Offloading oil can be done directly from the vessel or can be completed later with the help of a dedicated offshore platform.

FPSOs are more flexible than fixed offshore platforms. For example, they can be disconnected from oil wells and pipelines, making them a safer option in bad weather. In addition to that, oil producers can lease FPSOs, which provides them with increased flexibility. The flexibility of FPSOs allows them to move from one oil field to another, and they don’t require permanent infrastructure.