Introduction
The topside-generated electric energy used to power subsea pumps is delivered through a combination of transmission and distribution equipment. A medium-voltage (MV) circuit breaker is required between the power generator bus bar and the variable-frequency drive (VFD). The VFD, typically installed in a temperature-controlled room, is connected to the topside umbilical-termination unit (TUTU). The TUTU junction box interfaces the surface cables to the subsea umbilical. Depending on the water depth and the horizontal distance between the floating production unit and the load, the umbilical can be tens of kilometers long. The greater the distance, the greater the cost.
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