The new design was tested to a differential pressure of 2500psi (172 bar). The performance was mapped with liquid viscosities varying from 2cp to 2000cp. The pump is part of a deep-water subsea pumping system initiative, focused on heavy oil applications, sponsored by Shell Upstream Americas.
The pump design has a nominal displacement of 90,000 barrels per day at the rated speed of 1800rpm for this high-boost requirement, the company said. Final design conditions for the system are targeted at 3000psi (207 bar) boost pressure in multiphase service with a power in excess of 5MW and a water depth capability of 3000m.
This development work has been performed as part of an integrated team managed by Shell, together with other suppliers, to provide the necessary core technology for the subsea system. This includes a 3.5MW high-torque subsea motor from Flowserve, electrical and fiber-optic connectors, and a fiber-optic condition-monitoring system.
Full string testing on the core technology will take place later this year at Flowserve’s test facility located in Etten Leur, Netherlands.
