BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 30. Saipem and Curtiss-Wright Corporation have reached a significant milestone in the subsea applications industry by completing the qualification process for an all-electric seabed barrier fluid-less pump, Trend reports via Saipem.
This innovative technology, developed using proprietary solutions from the nuclear sector, enables the subsea injection of treated seawater into reservoirs, thereby extending the lifecycle of subsea fields.
Unlike conventional pumping systems that use barrier fluid as coolant, lubricant, and insulation, the new design by Saipem and Curtiss-Wright cools and lubricates the subsea pump with seawater. The motor is protected by a canned casing suitable for deepwater applications, eliminating the need for constant barrier fluid replenishment and reducing the risk of seawater contamination. Additionally, Saipem’s all-electric strategy replaces traditional hydraulic umbilicals with power/control cables, reducing operational costs. This pump is the first high-power, seal-less, barrier fluid-less subsea pump.
The collaboration between Saipem and Curtiss-Wright began in 2018 with an exclusive agreement to develop this technology. A 3 MW full-scale prototype was manufactured and underwent extensive water testing, confirming its performance, robustness, and reliability. This new solution is certified for several Saipem-proprietary subsea treatment technologies, including SPRINGS®, the subsea desulfation technology co-owned by Saipem, TotalEnergies, and Veolia.
The certification validates the achievement of Technology Readiness Level 4 (TRL 4), endorsed by Petrobras and TotalEnergies, and marks the start of global commercialization. This milestone underscores Saipem's commitment to innovative solutions that extend the life of subsea assets and enhance the safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of offshore operations.
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