Framework for Effective Spare Parts Management in Late-Life/End-Life From Planning to Decommissioning & Removal

Abstract

The Norwegian oil and gas industry is at an earlier stage of maturity. As the end of the lifecycle for an offshore asset is approaching, decommissioning activities must be initiated. The decommissioning process is the final step in the lifecycle of an asset, and it represents some very considerable business opportunities for oil and gas companies. The activity requires detailed planning and careful considerations to maintain high operational and financial performances. In this thesis, new technologies and trends have been explored in order to develop a framework for effective spare parts management in the late-life/end-life of offshore installations. The framework has been created by assessing various techniques, looking at their benefits, and what happens when they are applied together. The technologies and techniques that have been studied include additive manufacturing, blockchain, cloud technology, the Internet of Things and the circular economy. The result of the study is a spare parts management policy that mitigates costs and environmental impacts while simultaneously improving the asset’s operational performance.