Design and Application of Subsea Hydraulic Testing Methodology for Deepwater Umbilicals

  • LI Jian ,
  • WANG Zhifeng ,
  • CHEN Zhengwu ,
  • et al
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  • CNOOC Offshore Engineering Solution Co.,Ltd.,Shenzhen 518054,Guangdong,China

Online published: 2026-05-29

Abstract

As the critical infrastructure connecting offshore platforms with subsea production systems, deepwater umbilicals serve functions including power transmission, signal control, chemical injection, and hydraulic power supply. Their structural integrity significantly impacts the safety of deepwater oil and gas field development. To address issues such as large equipment size, long mobilization cycles, and high rental costs associated with traditional deck-based testing equipment, this paper proposes a technical solution for an integrated subsea hydraulic testing and monitoring module based on functional integration design principles. By establishing multi-objective optimization design criteria, the solution employs a modular stand structure, a three-channel independent pressure testing and monitoring system, and high-precision digital recording instruments to achieve rapid connection with umbilical termination head (UTH) and real-time in-situ monitoring. The module features remote-operated vehicle(ROV) operable interfaces and Hot Stab quick-connection systems, supporting multi-channel synchronous testing and data recording. Engineering application in a deepwater gas field in the South China Sea (water depth 700 m) in 2021 demonstrated that the module can shorten offshore testing periods to one day, with test results meeting ISO 13628-5:2009 standard requirements. This study provides a cost-effective technical solution for pre-commissioning of deepwater umbilicals and offers reference value for the development of deepwater oil and gas field equipment technology.

Cite this article

LI Jian , WANG Zhifeng , CHEN Zhengwu , et al . Design and Application of Subsea Hydraulic Testing Methodology for Deepwater Umbilicals[J]. Ocean Engineering Equipment and Technology, 2026 , 13(2) : 72 -80 . DOI: 10.12087/oeet.2095-7297.2026.02.10

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