The Dense Gas Separator Industrial Journey

Abstract This paper discusses the main technology maturity challenges encountered during project start-up and the strategies employed to address them as part of a readiness level acceleration initiative. Despite its simplicity, the HISEP® system relies on several key technologies to reduce the energy required at the platform for gas separation, cooling, compression, and injection. The project team conducted an extensive de-risking program prior to project sanction; however, some technologies remained at a low maturity level that posed significant risks to the project. To mitigate these risks and ensure smooth project execution, the team implemented a comprehensive readiness level acceleration program. This involved engagement with subject matter experts across all disciplines at focused integration events to deeply understand the product and systems from concept to installation and operation. Implementing the de-risking program helped the project team uncover "unknown unknowns" and produced tangible risk reduction opportunities. The project team incorporated these opportunities into the execution plan and created a plan to manage the risk. This process created an environment of openness and collaboration to unmask problems before they occur and minimized surprises during project execution while accelerating the readiness levels of the technology and system. Implementing a comprehensive approach of identifying and progressing readiness levels across the system e.g., engineering through installation is significantly reducing risk and ensuring project execution predictability while introducing novel technology application and accelerating the industrialization of the product.