Technology from Europe:
Norway/Finland

Multiphase booster to help prolong Balmoral output

Fig. 1. In production since 1986, Balmoral field is situated in UKCS Blocks 016/21a and 016/21b.

Just recently, operator ENI and three partners selected the proprietary MultiBooster from Kvaerner Oilfield Products (KOP) for their Balmoral field on the UK Continental Shelf, Fig. 1. The device will be utilized in Balmoral field's (KOP's) subsea multiphase boosting program. The MultiBooster will be installed in a 140-m water depth and have a capacity of up to 1,200 m 3 /hr, total flow rate. Delivery is scheduled for fourth-quarter 2004.

Using twin-screw technology, this pumping product allows multiphase (oil, water and gas) fluids to be transported over long distances and in deep water. This results in enhanced production for subsea developments. Benefits of the multiphase booster offers features that are important to exploitation of marginal fields and to extending life-of-field production.

It is well suited for boosting of low-pressure wellstreams from subsea tie-backs; tail end production for increased oil recovery; and new subsea development scenarios.

The multiphase booster module is run guideline-less and operated remotely. Pending operational water depth, guideline installation can also be supported.