SURFIM Network: the value of sharing lessons learned on the industry’s longest running joint industry project regarding SURF facilities integrity management

Abstract

The SURF Integrity Management (SURFIM) Network is an operator-only joint industry project (JIP) that promotes industry engagement and collaboration through shared experience and lessons learned on issues related to the integrity and reliability of subsea equipment. The JIP kicked off in 2010, with the goal to develop a best practice guideline for integrity management of subsea equipment. In its current form, the JIP is supported by nine of the world’s leading international operators on five continents, providing global perspective to local problems. The perceived industry value of this JIP is illustrated by the large number of operator participants and it presents an excellent example of the value of collaboration. Sharing knowledge in emerging areas allows the opportunity for individual companies to progress when they would otherwise not have had access to the breadth of experience, or the data required. This paper will present an overview of the SURFIM Network, including its scope, deliverables, key issues of common interest and its main achievements. The paper will also present case studies demonstrating the value of integrity management and, conversely, the cost of not undertaking such activities. The paper will conclude with the future vision for SURFIM Network and the value of continued collaboration.