Abstract

The importance of submarine cables to electrically link the offshore production platforms for hydrocarbon exploitation in Indonesia is increasing. In many cases, the combination of the centralized offshore power generation and the use of submarine power cable transmission has been decided as an alternative for electrified offshore operation after a careful consideration of the economical, technical and enviromental aspects.

The most representative example for the above electrical system is MAXUS S.E.S. Inc. field which is located in southeast Sumatera region. The platforms are connected to the centralized power generation by either directly or as part of ring of submarine cable system. This ring scheme has the advantage that the cables are considered to maintain operational conditions in the event of power failure from one feeder. Mechanical damages are one of the main causes of failure of the submarine cables.

In the case of submarine links installed unburied in shallow seas, the risk is much higher due to anchor tears in the outer protection of the cable.

This paper also describes the procedure of laying and repairing the submarine cable based on experiences of MAXUS S.E.S. Inc. technicians.