GoFlo flow assurance uses the combined well servicing and pipeline construction capabilities of Halliburton to provide a complete and effective deepwater flow assurance service. Depending on flowline configuration, the service can be deployed from one of Halliburton's specialty vessels or directly from a production facility.

Blockages to a flowline can occur due to a single sudden event or as the result of restrictions that have built up over time. The GoFlo system can be used to remediate various types of blockage including, viscous organics, hydrates, scales or mechanical debris.

"Utilising Halliburton's downhole equipment, data acquisition and our chemical knowledge, we have created a suite of solutions designed to remove specific blockages or restrictions," said David King, vice president, Halliburton Energy Services.

"The significance of this remediation system to Halliburton and to the industry is that it costs less than pipeline replacement, can increase production time and because there is no subsea disconnection, there is little to no environmental impact. Typically, the only option to a totally blocked line was to install an additional flowline, while the blocked line remained on the seabed, awaiting decommissioning."

The GoFlo(TM) service includes consultancy and trouble shooting as part of its proactive solution package. Halliburton is currently involved in studies evaluating customer's blocked pipelines and providing follow-up recommendations for further action.

"We are optimistic that this technology will have a positive influence on flowline design and its availability will help reduce the cost of subsea tie-backs," added Dick Martin, Halliburton Subsea general manager of Gulf of Mexico Operations.

The GoFlo(TM) system has a target reach of 20 miles and can work in conditions of up to 5,000 pounds of pressure per square inch (psi) and in temperatures up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit.