Novel evaluation and testing of technology qualification process of subsea oil and gas products

Use of robust products is of utmost importance in the subsea production systems to ensure the maximum utilization of the energy resources available under the seabed. To achieve highly reliable products, a comprehensive technology qualification program is proposed in this paper for the subsea electrical and electronics-based products. The recommended qualification program is specifically focused on a novel technology readiness level 4 (TRL4) process of the product used in an intended environment condition, which guarantees the product availability on the seabed without any operational failures. The analytical assessment on the products' design, operating conditions and compliance stress tests are proposed following the internationally recognized standards, e.g. The American Petroleum Institute (API), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), European Standards (EN) and European Union (EU-directives). Modified environmental tests methods and novel product safety procedures are introduced for the first time to ensure that products meet the acceptance criteria set in the proposed TRL4 process. Finally, the proposed TRL4 process and its recommended test methods are exercised on the various functional units of the subsea electronic module. The experimental results show that the product is fit for use in the subsea environment after going through the proposed extensive qualification test program.

Automated summary

To ensure the reliability of products in subsea production systems, a comprehensive technology qualification program is proposed with a focus on a novel technology readiness level 4 process. This process includes analytical assessment of product design, operating conditions, compliance stress tests, modified environmental tests, and novel product safety procedures to meet acceptance criteria set in the qualification process.