The development of the Kuvykin field in the Russian sector of the North Caspian Sea is taking form. Ramboll will contribute with pre-FEED studies for a drilling complex and topside living quarters designed for operation in arctic conditions.
Early phase field development
The Yuri S. Kuvykin field is a gas condensate field located in the northern part the Russian Sector of the Caspian Sea. The field is currently being developed by LUKOIL, and Ramboll studies will contribute in the pre-FEED (Front End Engineering Design) phase of establishing the first platforms in the Kuvykin field. When in production the field is expected to yield 4 BBm3 gas and 385 kt condensate per year.
Designing equipment and operation for arctic conditions
The Kuvykin field is prone for strong ice conditions during winter months, and is rated as one of the Arctic Shelf regions. Because of the harsh weather conditions in the area, Ramboll will carry out winterization studies as part of the pre-FEED making sure that structures, machinery and safety are designed for the aggravating cold, which strikes temperatures down to minus 21 degree Celsius during winter months.
A high priority project for Russia
Yu. S. Kuvykin is not only a high priority project for the leading Russian oil producer LUKOIL, who operates the field, but also of strategic importance to the Russian Federation, and is closely followed by the Russian Government.
LUKOIL operates two other fields in the northern part of the Caspian Sea; the Filanovsky and Korchagin fields for which LUKOIL according to Interfax (Oct 2 2013) estimates cumulative investment at 400 billion rubles.
Ramboll targets Russia
When the Ramboll Oil & Gas management made the decision to tender for the Kuvykin project, it was part of the company’s strategy for the Russian market. Ramboll successfully secured two of the three lots set for tendering to Western companies in competition with Technip, Aker Solutions, Saipem and Worley Parsons.
“The project win represents a breakthrough for our Oil & Gas business in the Russian market, and it is the result of strong interregional cooperation and dedicated efforts by the Oil & Gas engineering teams and management in Russia, Norway and Middle East”, said Tatjana A. Sadyrina, Director of Business Development in Russian Market, Ramboll.
Press Release, January 27, 2014; Image: LUKOIL