Richards

Well, here we are again, at the last issue of the year. I still don’t know where the time has gone. It seems like only yesterday I was basking in the summer sunshine and now as I write in late November, the ground is covered in snow. The log fire is lit--just what is needed as you open up (on your screen, that is) this latest issue of our Journal. As usual, we have some interesting papers for everyone. I hope that you enjoy reading it.

IPTC 11280--Energy Efficient Operation of Gas Export Systems. This is an interesting work that that shows how a detailed model of the Norwegian gas export system was constructed to ensure efficient energy use and reduced emissions through simulation of dynamic gas pipeline and compressor systems behavior in a single model while maintaining customer deliveries and operational flexibility.

IPTC 11299--Development of the Adriatic LNG Terminal Deep Casting Basin Construction Site. This noteworthy paper covers a subject than can often be overlooked during the early conceptual design phases of an offshore project, namely where to build the necessary structures. It describes the site selection process and the works undertaken to construct a facility for the building of a deep-draft gravity-based concrete structure.

OTC 19347--Leak Detection in Subsea Pipeline: A Mechanistic Modeling Approach With Fixed Pressure Boundaries. This paper presents a new method for the monitoring of subsea pipeline integrity and the detection of leaks. Implementation of systems such as these is still patchy, and there is much need for consensus on the best solutions for different fluid types.

OTC 19494--Cyclic Tests of Model Pipe in Kaolin. Much work has been done over the years to research the interaction of deepwater steel catenary risers with the seabed. This paper presents the results of recent work on such interaction on soft kaolin clay-type soils.

SPE 109591--Characterization of Oil/Water Flows in Horizontal Pipes. This is another interesting paper that describes some recent research into oil and water dynamic flow, which to date is generally not well understood.

SPE 112207--A Survey of Wireless Technology for the Oil and Gas Industry. This paper describes recent advances and the state of the art for wireless technology in the oil and gas industry for use in control and communications.

SPE 114976--Application of Stirling Cycle Generators in Production Operations. This paper describes the novel application of a little-known, though well-established, technology for efficient power generation in remote areas. Successful implementation of this equipment should have positive benefits for the oil and gas industry.

Don't forget that we are always needing new papers for peer review, so if you have something new to tell everyone, please consider writing a paper for us. I wish everyone a happy holiday season, and I look forward to writing to you again in the New Year.