Paradigm launches miniature coiled-tubing system
Paradigm Flow Services has launched Flexi-Coil Extended Reach for riser and flowline blockage remediation and internal inspection. Conventional methods to remediate riser and flowline blockages are limited due to deployment difficulties and inability to overcome bends and distances beyond 200 m. Flexi-Coil Extended Reach has been proven in tests up to 2,000 m.
The system, based on miniaturized coiled-tubing principals, can be deployed into risers and flowlines and provides a safe solution to unblock these lines when working from an FPSO. The system can carry out high-pressure jetting, chemical and nitrogen injection over long distances to de-sand, de-wax and de-pressurize hydrate plugs.
“Flexi-Coil Extended Reach is game-changing, taking proven coiled-tubing technology and adapting it in a way that makes it applicable and viable for the remediation of production systems,” Rob Bain, Managing Director of Paradigm Flow Services, said. “The only other option at the moment is to disconnect risers and bring another rig on site to carry out conventional coiled tubing. The safety and logistical implications have rendered this option redundant.”
The system comprises a BOP stack, thruster system and lightweight composite hose reel. With capacity to clear sand and wax plugs, a unique mechanism deploys the water through the outer annulus of the hose and returns it through the inner hose.
“Our method means the shut in line can be left in-situ, and we can enter using existing facilities, reducing risk for operators. We can also attach monitoring devices and retrieve and analyze debris to provide assurance on operational success,” Mr Bain said. “Mature offshore basins, such as the North Sea and West Africa, are key markets for this, and we are calling on UK operators to partner on the bespoke development of the technology to really push its boundaries and address the main issues they are facing.” Paradigm is currently undertaking major projects with an international operator in West Africa.
The technology can be adapted for several applications. In the UK, integrity of flexible risers is becoming a more prominent issue and inspection tools can be added to the system to address that challenge. Flexi-Coil Extended Reach can also be used for decommissioning to clean flowlines for safe abandonment as a cost effective and environmentally friendly solution.
