China’s CNOOC Deploys Domestic Subsea Oil Drilling Equipment, Enhancing Offshore Oil Production

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: In a significant milestone for China’s energy sector, the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) proudly announces the operational deployment of domestically developed submarine oil drilling equipment in the waters near Zhanjiang, Guangdong Province.

The key component, a subsea Christmas (Xmas) tree, has been successfully put into operation and is poised to enhance oil production efficiency in mature oilfields. The Xmas tree serves as a vital piece of equipment within subsea production systems in the petroleum industry, facilitating the connection of oil from deep formations to external oil and gas transport pipelines.

Measuring 3.5 meters in length, 3.2 meters in width, and 3 meters in height, with an overall weight of nearly 22 tonnes, the domestically produced subsea Xmas tree showcases China’s commitment to technological innovation and self-sufficiency in the energy sector.

The operational advantages of CNOOC’s Xmas tree are noteworthy. Operating in Zhanjiang’s Weizhou Oilfield, it reduces weight by 40 percent and slashes costs by an impressive 60 percent compared to overseas products. This technological achievement is anticipated to boost annual oil output by 50,000 tonnes in shallow waters.

The subsea Xmas tree functions by injecting filtered seawater with a maximum pressure of approximately 17 MPa into the reservoir, effectively pumping oil from deep layers. This innovative system exemplifies China’s capability to contribute to the global petroleum industry by showcasing cutting-edge equipment that improves efficiency and reduces operational costs.

The successful operation of this domestically developed system in Zhanjiang’s Weizhou Oilfield underscores the safety and reliability of China’s homegrown offshore oil and gas-related technologies. This achievement is a critical step towards fostering the growth of these technologies and supporting the nation’s strategic goals in the energy sector.

CNOOC remains committed to advancing technological capabilities and contributing to the sustainable development of China’s offshore oil and gas industry.