ABSTRACT

This research investigated flow assurance risks with focus on chilly choke effect (Joule-
Thompson cooling effect) on subsea oil and gas production system. It looked into
classification of choke valve, choke valve selection, choke flow, uses of choke valve,
and the causes of chilly choke effect and conditions necessary for formation of
asphaltene, hydrates, wax, scales and their flow assurance threats on subsea oil and
gas operations. Existing and emerging flow assurance management techniques were
examined in terms of suitability, cost and effectiveness. The flow assurance
management strategies considered in this study are – thermal management, pressure
management, chemical treatment management, mechanical remediation methods,
multiple application re-injection system (MARS) and cold flow technology. HYSYS
simulation package at steady state conditions was utilised to analyse the effect of
increasing pressure differential on chilly choke effect of choke valve installed on subsea
trees during shut-in conditions. The results obtained were used to propose the most
effective prevention techniques to be applied in suppressing chilly choke effect (Joule –
Thompson cooling effect) on subsea trees during start-ups.