China has marked a significant milestone in heavy oil extraction by delivering the world’s first mobile thermal-injection platform. Unveiled by the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), the platform, named “Recai No.1” or “Thermal Recovery No.1,” was launched in the waters off Weihai City in east China’s Shandong Province.
The Recai No.1 platform represents a breakthrough in advanced heavy oil recovery technology, offering new opportunities for China to tap into its abundant heavy oil reserves. Heavy oil, known for its high viscosity and extraction challenges compared to conventional crude oil, accounts for over two-thirds of the world’s known oil reserves. China alone is estimated to hold approximately 19.87 billion tonnes of heavy oil.
Designed to enhance both the efficiency and scale of heavy oil extraction, the platform utilizes a thermal injection process. Measuring 82 meters in length and 42 meters in width, Recai No.1 is equipped with pioneering thermal-recovery technologies. These technologies employ high-temperature steam to reduce the viscosity of heavy oil, simplifying the extraction process. This innovative approach is implemented using a mobile thermal-injection system coupled with compensation technology for high-temperature, high-pressure steam pipelines.
Engineered to withstand severe marine conditions, the platform boasts four legs exceeding 70 meters in height. This design enables operations in waters up to 35 meters deep and provides resilience against typhoons as powerful as Category 16. The two-deck structure spans more than 3,000 square meters and weighs over 10,000 tonnes, comparable in height to a 20-story building.
The deployment of Recai No.1 signifies a major advancement in China’s offshore oil capabilities, potentially transforming the landscape of heavy oil extraction. By harnessing this mobile platform, China aims to maximize the utilization of its vast heavy oil resources, contributing to energy security and economic growth.
The successful launch of the world’s first mobile thermal-injection platform underscores China’s commitment to innovation in the energy sector. As the country continues to develop and implement cutting-edge technologies, it positions itself at the forefront of global heavy oil recovery efforts.
Reference(s):
World's first mobile thermal-injection platform unveiled in China
cgtn.com
