ABSTRACT

Design and correct dimensioning of oil and gas terminal facilities is often a challenge due to a variety of operational uncertainties as well as the volatility in supply and demand. Various factors come into play to ensure smooth uninterrupted operation, as well as optimal and effective resource utilization. This paper discusses the challenges of optimization and presents an integrated approach to optimize terminal logistics and dimensioning, where parts of the objective function is solved by discrete event simulation. A case study of the new Veidnes terminal to be commissioned in the north of Norway, is also presented. This terminal shall serve as a central hub for export of oil from the already producing Goliat field and the upcoming offshore facilities in the Barents Sea, including Johan Castberg as well as the later producers Alta Gotha and Wisting. A variety of factors including weather disturbances, production profiles, shuttle tankers, jetties, etc. are included in the analysis to help provide a decision-basis on the number and size of tanks required at the terminal.