XIKOMBA

• Latitude: -6.036432
• Longitude: 11.02135
• West Africa
• Offshore Terminal in Angola

Location: Angola

The Xikomba Offshore Terminal in Angola is a prominent facility associated primarily with the Xikomba oil field located off the coast of Angola in the deep waters of Block 15. Operated by major oil companies (typically consortiums including entities like ExxonMobil), this facility plays a critical role in the exploration, extraction, and export of crude oil. Below is a detailed description and specification of the Xikomba Offshore Terminal:

Description:

1. Location:

   • Situated in Block 15, approximately 230 kilometers off the coast of Angola, in the West African offshore region.
   • Operates in deepwater conditions with depths typically ranging between 1,400 to 1,850 meters.

2. Development:

   • The Xikomba field was initially developed using a Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which facilitated offshore oil production.
   • FPSO Xikomba (initial vessel used until replaced) was a key facility designed for extracting, processing, and temporarily storing oil before offloading to tankers.

3. Field Characteristics:

   • Comprises several wells linked to subsea infrastructure, including flow lines, risers, and umbilicals.
   • Known for its reserves, the field primarily produces high-quality crude oil.

Specifications:

1. FPSO Vessel:

   • Name: Initially operated as FPSO Xikomba.
   • Capacity: Capable of producing approximately 90,000 barrels of oil per day and storing up to 1.7 million barrels of oil.
   • Processing Capabilities: Equipped to handle both oil and associated gas production along with water injection facilities to enhance oil recovery.

2. Subsea Infrastructure:

   • Flowlines and Risers: Installed to transport produced fluids from the seabed wells to the FPSO.
   • Wells: Multiple production wells are drilled to tap into the reserves, with potential for further exploratory and development drilling.

3. Export and Offloading:

   • The processed oil is temporarily stored aboard the FPSO and periodically offloaded to shuttle tankers for transport to global markets.
   • Offloading operations are carefully coordinated to minimize environmental impact and ensure safe transfer.

4. Support Facilities:

   • Support Vessels: Includes platforms for supply, maintenance, and standby rescue operations.
   • Helicopter Services: For personnel transfer and emergency response.

5. Environmental and Safety Measures:

   • Adheres to stringent environmental protection standards to mitigate impact on marine ecosystems.
   • Equipped with advanced safety systems, including emergency shutdown systems, fire and gas detection, and oil spill response equipment.

6. Operational Management:

   • Daily operations managed by experienced teams to ensure optimal production efficiency and compliance with regulatory requirements.
   • Regular maintenance and inspection routines ensure the integrity and reliability of infrastructure and equipment.

Operational Significance:

• Economic Impact: The Xikomba Offshore Terminal significantly contributes to Angola's oil production capacity, supporting the country’s economy with vital oil revenues.
• Technological Innovation: The field exemplifies advanced offshore extraction technology and operational excellence in deepwater oil production.

Ongoing Developments:

• New advancements and potential field extensions may involve the use of newer FPSO vessels or subsea production systems to enhance performance and extend the field’s productive life.
• Collaborative efforts with international oil companies and technology firms continue to optimize recovery rates and operational efficiency.

In conclusion, the Xikomba Offshore Terminal stands as a crucial infrastructure asset in Angola’s offshore oil production landscape, integrating sophisticated technology with responsible resource management practices.