Optimal method of Arctic hydrocarbons production-and-supply system implementation

Saint Petersburg Mining University, Department of Transportation and storage oil and gas, St Petersburg, Russia

Abstract

One of the most important issues in the development of the Arctic shelf is the rationality of transportation. Selection of the optimal method is an integral part of the project, in the framework of which this article is written. Earlier all possible methods and their advantages and disadvantages were evaluated. Within the framework of this article, t optimal method for the development of reserves on the Arctic shelf will be proposed, taking into account the possibilities of development and the effectiveness of subsequent transportation to the importing countries. The risks of gas hydrates were considered. The prospects of development of the Northern Sea Route between Russia and Asian countries are assessed; the cost of transportation of liquefied natural gas and compressed natural gas from the Barents Sea to Central Europe is compared. The hydraulic calculation of the selected section of the gas pipeline network is conducted. The economic calculation of the project as a whole is accomplished. The optimal location of the route in relation to the reserves in the Barents Sea has been chosen. Pressure losses in the selected zone were no more than 12.24 MPa with pipeline pressure from 8 to 16 MPa. In this case, condensation and subsequent formation of gas hydrates are not possible. Using only three sections of the network, the profit of the project will be 223 billion rubles per year. In accordance with this the best way of hydrocarbons realization in the Arctic is a combined method of transportation with modern methods of extraction and pipelaying laying.