Siemens Energy received an order to deliver customized direct electrical heating power supply systems for 10 subsea flow lines with an option for two additional systems from BP Exploration Ltd.

All of the systems are to be deployed on BP-operated Shah Deniz gas field in the Azerbaijan sector of the Caspian Sea. Delivery of the equipment is scheduled for the end of 2015.

Siemens will deliver customized top-side direct electrical heating power supply systems to be used on the subsea flow lines to prevent hydrate formation during planned and unplanned process shutdown. Deepwater natural gas reservoirs and low temperatures induce hydrate formation, which can cause flow assurance challenges such as flow line blockage or reduced capacity.

 The direct electrical heating power systems from Siemens will contribute to a consistent flow of hydrocarbons despite challenging fluid characteristics and temperature conditions at the seabed. The respective modules of the systems contain power components as well as a control and protection system for the top-side equipment and subsea direct electrical heating cables. They will provide power for the heating of pipelines when required by the operations and will be installed on the platform deck.