Sand disposal technology selection for oil and gas fields in Malay - Tho Chu basin

Tóm tắt

The disposal of sand generated during offshore oil and gas production poses considerable environmental and operational challenges that require innovative solutions. This paper presents a comprehensive review and evaluation of sand disposal technologies utilized in the PM3 Commercial Arrangement Area (PM3 CAA) facilities, located within the Malay-Tho Chu basin, offshore Southwest of Vietnam. Given the variety of technologies available for sand disposal on surface facilities, selecting the most suitable approach requires diligent study and assessment to ensure the best fit-for-purpose solution. This study thoroughly evaluates current sand disposal practices while exploring alternative technologies that could enhance operational effectiveness. A systematic approach was taken to establish evaluation criteria that incorporate both technical performance, environmental impact, health and safety considerations, and cost implications, ensuring a holistic perspective on sand management. Three key sand disposal technologies: Sand Bag Skid, Hydrocyclone Desander, and Sand Filter Skid, were analyzed in terms of separation efficiency, pressure requirements, maintenance complexity, and overall integration with existing PM3 CAA infrastructure. Among the various options analyzed, the Hydrocyclone Desander emerged as the optimal choice, providing a well-balanced solution between operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compliance. It demonstrated 98% efficiency in removing particles smaller than 20 microns while requiring minimal manual handling, thereby reducing personnel exposure to hazardous materials such as mercury. Additionally, its compatibility with existing processing conditions in PM3 CAA makes it a viable and practical solution for ongoing sand management challenges. This paper ultimately recommends the Hydrocyclone Desander as the preferred technology based on these findings, contributing valuable insights to enhance sand disposal practices in offshore production environments. The results emphasize the importance of tailoring disposal strategies to specific field conditions, promoting sustainable resource extraction and long-term operational efficiency.