AN OVERVIEW OF OFFSHORE TECHNOLOGIES AND THEIR SUITABILITY FOR HYDROCARBON EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION IN THE BAY OF BENGAL

Abstract

Offshore Exploration and Production (E&P) activities are extremely expensive, involving very high capital investments and associated risk factors, and advanced technologies. It is necessary to have a sound understanding of the technologies and economic aspects of offshore E&P. The paper highlights why Bangladesh must embark on a vigorous exploration initiative for hydrocarbons in the mostly unexplored Bay of Bengal. It aims to briefly introduce the technologies and discuss their possible applications in the Bay of Bengal. Finally, it discusses the status and possible utilization of the Sangu facilities, which is the sole offshore gas field in the country. There are many types of technologies involved in offshore E&P. However, this paper will limit its scope to drilling rigs and platforms. There are different types of drilling rigs, suitable for shallow, medium, and deep waters. Each has its application limits, advantages, and disadvantages. It is very important to select the most suitable one to carry out its functions in a safe and economic manner. Offshore platforms are permanent structures that allow different activities in the offshore settings like drilling, producing, processing, storing, and supplying oil and gas. The crucial factors for a successful platform setup and operation are selection of the platform type given the water depth and weather conditions, designing the suitable production method, selection of related equipment and supplying method.

Keywords: Offshore, Oil, Gas, Hydrocarbon, Exploration, Production, Structure, Drilling Rigs, Platforms, Sangu Gas Field