The JIP explored typical failures of subsea equipment and how integrity could be controlled (DNV GL)

The company says its aim is to help operators do maintenance at the most cost effective intervals, and to boost their confidence in the condition of the subsea equipment.

DNV GL says the need to manage the integrity of subsea production systems is becoming more challenging as equipment gets older and the industry looks to drive down costs.

“In many cases, offshore infrastructure and facilities are operating way beyond their original design life,” said Bente Helen Leinum, DNV GL business development leader subsea.

The RP – called ‘Management of Subsea Production Systems’ – is the result of a two year joint industry project (JIP) involving DONG Energy, FMC Technologies, GDF Suez, Norske Shell, Statoil, Talisman, Petroleum Safety Authority and Norwegian Oil and Gas.

The JIP explored typical failures of subsea equipment and how integrity could be controlled.

It found that failures in subsea production systems can arise from inadequate design, manufacturing and installation.

Information management and documentation is a particular challenge and organizational interfaces can also impede clear communication and exchange of operational data across operators’ organizations, said DNV GL.

“Integrity management is not only a matter of operational control on a daily basis, it should start from the outset of the design phase and continue through the entire life span of the system,” said Leinum. “The RP outlines a step-by-step guideline for how to assess and manage integrity of subsea facilities, and aims to provide a reliable point of reference for both industry and authorities, helping to raise the standard within subsea integrity management.”