Submersible Pump with Line Shaft Pump in Shallow Water, Optimum Selection for Offshore Application in the Oil & Gas Industry

Abstract Seawater is an essential fluid used in various process circuits, such as cooling, reinjection into the wells and utilities, etc., in the offshore oil and gas industry. Vertical pumps facilitates with lifting seawater to the platform. This study investigates and compares two pump alternatives that has been widely used in oil and gas industry for seawater lift application: Vertical line-shaft pump and Electrical submersible pump. Existing seawater lift pump operating parameters are used as the basis of this study. The pump that is considered for the study has a flow rate of 3415 US GPM (776 m3/hr.) with a total head of 250 ft. The motor rating is 350 HP. The overall length of the pump is 21 meters. The main methodology used is a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCC) where the total cost of ownership of the vertical line-shaft pump and electrical submersible pump were analyzed for a period of 30 years. Furthermore, this research also addresses the operational drawbacks associated with both the pumps. Submersible pumps have higher initial capital investment cost when compared to line-shaft pump of similar capacity and size. The energy consumption cost of submersible pumps are higher mainly owing to lower efficiencies of the motors. The power factor for submersible pumps are lower in relation to line- shaft pumps. One of the main benefits of submersible pumps are their less installation and pump pullout time. Submersible pumps occupies lower space above ground when compared to line-shaft pumps. Additionally, submersible pumps are less noisy and have lower vibration in comparison to line-shaft pumps. This paper aims to provide key information and knowledge for engineers to make prudent decision regarding selection of the most cost effective pump for the seawater lift application with a tangible added cost value to both Capital Expenditures (CAPEX) and Operational Expenditure (OPEX).