Flow Assurance – How Direct Electrical Heating (DEH) Can Assist

 

17 August 2011 Perth Branch Evening Meeting

Chairman Ian Wilson, SUT Perth Branch Committee Member

Sponsored by Nexans and Wärtsilä

 

Report

 

Flyer

 

Presentations

DEH Development Case Studies

Jesper Hoj-Hansen, DEH/Pipeline Engineer, Woodside Energy Ltd

A brief introduction to Open Loop Direct Electrical Heating (DEH) followed by 4 Case Studies of Opportunities where Woodside has considered its application. The DEH challenges unique to each of these opportunities were discussed along with how the technology is being stretched beyond the existing applications.

 

Direct Electrical Heating of Flowlines

Audun Haglo, Project Engineer, Nexans Norway AS

This presentation gave an overview of Direct Electrical Heating (DEH) Systems technology. Topics covered were the following: A brief history of DEH technology; working principles of the system; design considerations for system, cables and components; qualification and testing; and installation experience.

 

Evolution of DEH Topsides

Craig Abbott, GM Oil & Gas, MEA Solutions Support Team, Wärtsilä

Over the past 12 years, 20 DEH systems have been installed and have accumulated well in excess of 200 operations to restart flow lines in addition to two lines that operate continuously. Variations between fields have thrown up challenges in the level of power that needs to be transferred to the flow lines, the path along which the power needs to travel and differing the methods of operation. Wärtsilä has been involved in 19 of the 20 DEH projects and presented the past, present and future plans for DEH topsides.