SUBSEA TECHNOLOGY
Fig. 1 Subsea energy storage system (Subsea ESS) with up to seven skids of 1MWh each connected to the
power and data distribution, fully API17F approved during Q4 2022
SUBSEA POWER SOLUTIONS
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or many years, SubCtech has recognised the ever-increasing demands for power and capacity within the subsea sector. It recently
responded by introducing a new Li- ion battery series particularly aimed at large subsea storage, vehicle propulsion and also for the electrifi cation of oil & gas production facilities (which plays a crucial role within the transition from electrohydraulic to “all-electric” systems). T e special requirements of the
off shore oil & gas industry have triggered the development of extremely reliable batteries with a lifetime of up to 25 years. With the UN T38.3, MIL-STD, DNV-GL or API17F standards and qualifi cations, depending on the target market, batteries have to withstand rapid temperature changes as well as extensive shock and vibration tests. Such qualifi cations as well as highest reliability are compulsory for operations in the sea, as service or failure would cost millions. At present, SubCtech is supporting
the future revision 5 of the API17F on the subject of fully electric production facilities (all-electric systems) containing batteries. With this standardisation along with consideration and integration of functional safety according IEC 61508,
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A variety of subsea applications require power. Stefan Marx introduces a range of advanced power technologies based on Li-Ion batteries
the safety of future electrical underwater systems is signifi cantly increased. T e energy of the batteries is easily
scalable by stacking SmartPowerBlock (SPB) battery modules. Power distribution units (PDU) and voltage conversion as well as data interface can be added to the single titanium or duplex steel housing completing a battery system. Combining these functions in a single pressure housing reduces the number of subsea connectors and simplifi es system integration. T e Li-ion cell technology that is used
off ers enormous advantages in terms of safety, energy and power density at moderate costs. Due to the fl exible design, the charger can be external or can be integrated into the pressure housing, e.g. for AUV/ROV docking stations or subsea storage solutions. SubCtech has developed DC and AC converter technology that allows high charge power and therefore short charging times without complex cooling. T e transformation into an all-electric system technology protects the oceans and enables a sustainable, careful use of our limited resources. Here, the innovative, modular SubCtech battery system plays an elementary, almost indispensable role and
off ers new, equally innovative all-electric systems a wider range of options.
ECONOMIC VALUE OF LI-ION BATTERIES
All oil & gas applications have in common that the use of the oceans is advancing, but must be more sustainable and safer. With the aim of making technologies more effi cient and using ocean resources cost-eff ectively, future solutions must always consider protection and sustainability. With its standardised, safe and reliable Li-ion batteries with a long design life, SubcTech aims to make underwater energy reliable and cost-eff ective. T e high level of safety and the elimination of maintenance reduces OPEX signifi cantly. Another part to optimise OPEX costs and increase sustainability is the pressure housing. Unlike traditional duplex and 316L steel canisters, SubCtech specialises in titanium. A coating and corrosion protection (CP) is not required and thus reduces the possible entry of pollutants into the water. In contrast to regular expensive maintenance at subsea structures with ROV support, titanium housings are 100% maintenance-free over their design life. T e same applies
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