Programme details

Shell as operator for the large Ormen Lange Gas field is currently testing a full scale pilot subsea compression system, placed in a purpose built test pit at Nyhamna Gas plant and connected to a re-circulating loop facility for testing. The pilot aims to demonstrate sufficient technology maturity to make pursuit of subsea compression a viable option for the Ormen Lange Future Compression Project. The full subsea compression system includes delivery of 30MW of AC power 120km from shore, voltage transformation from 120kV in several stages, distribution, UPS, gas/liquid separation and pumping, and gas compression with a seal-less compressor running on active magnetic bearings. The Pilot concept was developed by Statoil while development operator for Ormen Lange. Statoil have completed the construction with Aker Solutions in close cooperation with Shell as Operator. Shell has provided the test site and loop, and is responsible for overall system integration and Pilot operation. Pilot qualification testing has taken place over the first six months of 2012 and Shell will make the qualification and selection recommendations to the field partnership in the course of 2012. This paper will describe the technology qualification process, the experience to date with the Pilot subsea compression system construction, and the development of tests that verify the qualification.