Plug and abandonment (P&A) operations are among the most critical tasks in the lifecycle of offshore wells. These operations require precision, reliability, and robust solutions to permanently seal and abandon wells while protecting the environment and surrounding infrastructure. Secc’s Hot Make Hot Break and Midline Weak Link Couplings are engineered to enhance P&A campaigns by providing reliable, high-performance solutions that facilitate multiple operations in a seamless and efficient manner.
Secc’s coupling solutions are specifically designed to support a wide variety of well abandonment activities. These couplings allow operators to perform multiple operations successively, such as cementing, cutting, and isolating the wellbore, without the need to mobilize separate equipment or systems. This multi-functionality reduces operational complexity, accelerates timelines, and minimizes costs, making them an ideal choice for both short-term and long-term P&A projects.
Secc couplings are built to handle a broad spectrum of fluids under pressure, including challenging substances like cement and drill cuttings that are typically encountered in P&A operations. Their full-bore, pressure-balanced design ensures efficient and uninterrupted fluid transfer, even under demanding conditions. This capability is essential for achieving the successful execution of abandonment processes, where precise cementing and sealing operations are required to isolate the wellbore permanently.
A significant risk during offshore P&A operations is the failure of the Dynamic Positioning (DP) system, which can occur due to harsh weather, equipment malfunction, or other factors. Secc’s coupling solutions are equipped with a mechanical disconnection mechanism that is activated when a set break load is reached. In such cases, the couplings will automatically dry-seal both bores, preventing any fluid loss and safeguarding the well from uncontrolled leakage. This fail-safe mechanism ensures that subsea infrastructure, personnel, and the environment remain protected during critical operations.
Secc’s patented, pressure-balanced design eliminates separation forces during disconnection, allowing the Midline Weak Link Coupling to be set at relatively low break loads. This feature provides an extra layer of protection for the most sensitive and critical flowlines, subsea infrastructure, and equipment. By using a passive coupling, operators can safeguard delicate systems while still achieving high-performance disconnections when necessary. This patented design ensures that even in the most demanding environments, the system operates efficiently and without causing undue stress or damage to the subsea infrastructure.
To complete the range of solutions for P&A and decommissioning projects, Secc also offers a comprehensive range of ROV-compatible API 17H and ECOFLOW Hot Stabs and receptacles. These components facilitate remote intervention operations, enabling operators to conduct abandonment tasks without the need for diver intervention. The ROV-compatible systems provide additional flexibility and ensure that P&A operations can be performed effectively regardless of the specific environmental conditions or depths of operation.
Secc’s solutions for P&A include:
Secc’s coupling solutions are integral to the success of offshore plug and abandonment campaigns. By providing a combination of reliable fluid management, fail-safe disconnect mechanisms, and robust protection for subsea infrastructure, Secc ensures that P&A operations are carried out with maximum safety, efficiency, and minimal environmental impact. These solutions provide the flexibility and performance needed for the decommissioning and abandonment of wells in the most challenging offshore environments.
