FRAMO Engineering is to instal a new-generation subsea multiphase pumping system in the Campos Basin Barracuda field for Petrobras.
The prototype, like earlier systems, is designed to pump multiphase fluids (oil, water and gas) from the well to the host surface production unit and will be the first helicon-axial-type pump to be installed in the world to exert differential pressure above 60kgf/cm. The device is expected to be installed in the second half of 2011 in the Barracuda field and to operate in a satellite well of platform P-48. Water depth is some 1,040m (3,412ft).
Petrobras has described the Norwegian group’s capabilities with such technologies as “very important” to the Brazilian company’s deepwater programme.
Benefits afforded by subsea multiphase pumping include increased oil production; making production feasible for wells that are distant from the production platforms; the possible elimination of production platforms, and possible improvements in the reservoir’s recovery factor.
Framo has had subsea multiphase pumping systems commercially available since 1994 and the company claims that availability has been close to 100% on all installations.
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