How Multidisciplinary R&D Can Change the Future of the Oil & Gas Industry
The Oil & Gas (O&G) industry in Brazil is driven by a robust regulatory framework that fosters innovation. One of the most significant incentives comes from the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP), which mandates that companies invest 1% of their gross annual revenue from fields subject to Special Participation in Research, Development, and Innovation (R&D&I) projects. This requirement, formalized in ANP Resolution No. 918/2023, ensures that operators continuously invest in technological advancements, driving the sector's growth and competitiveness. These resources are often directed towards collaborative initiatives with universities, research centers, and technology providers, creating a thriving ecosystem for R&D in the O&G sector.
At +NR, we understand that leveraging this opportunity requires a strategic and multidisciplinary approach. Our expertise lies in supporting operators through the entire R&D cycle, from concept development to technical review and implementation, ensuring that projects align with both operational needs and regulatory standards.
Our Multidisciplinary Approach to R&D in O&G
Developing new technologies and methods in the O&G sector requires a comprehensive approach that considers the entire project lifecycle. From concept generation to prototype testing and field implementation, +NR’s R&D support is designed to drive innovation and boost operational efficiency, always with a systematic and holistic approach to optimize field development, design, and operation.
1. Concept Development: Generating Ideas that Drive Change
The first stage of any R&D project involves identifying industry challenges and generating innovative ideas to address them. At +NR, we bring together experts from various disciplines, including:
- Subsea engineering for reliable deepwater applications
- Process engineering to optimize production systems
- Data analytics and digitalization for smarter asset management
- Structural and mechanical engineering to enhance equipment resilience
- Automation and control to streamline operations and reduce human intervention
By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, we encourage the creation of solutions that are not only technically viable but also economically and environmentally sustainable.
2. Technical Feasibility and Proof of Concept: Transforming Ideas into Reality
Once potential solutions are identified, our team conducts detailed technical feasibility studies. We evaluate:
- Mechanical integrity and reliability through advanced simulation and modeling
- Process efficiency improvements, including flow assurance and material handling
- Automation potential, leveraging AI-driven control systems
- Economic feasibility, ensuring that innovations are cost-effective and scalable
During this phase, +NR’s R&D team collaborates closely with operators to align project goals with operational realities and field conditions. This partnership ensures that new concepts are not only innovative but also practical and readily implementable.
3. Prototype Development and Testing: Building and Validating Innovations
Once the proof of concept is validated, we move into the prototype development phase. This involves:
- Designing functional prototypes with a focus on scalability
- Conducting lab and field tests to validate performance
- Iterating designs based on testing data and stakeholder feedback
- Risk assessment and mitigation planning
By combining theoretical analysis with practical testing, +NR ensures that prototypes are not only innovative but also robust and reliable. Our global field experience allows us to simulate diverse operational scenarios, from subsea interventions to refinery process optimization.
4. Field Implementation and Monitoring: Ensuring Real-World Success
Successful R&D projects do not end at prototype validation. Implementing new solutions in real-world settings requires:
- Comprehensive field trials to assess performance under operational conditions
- Integration with existing systems, ensuring compatibility and minimal disruption
- Training and support to enable smooth adoption by field personnel
- Performance monitoring, using digital dashboards to track key metrics
At +NR, we prioritize seamless integration and operator training to ensure that innovations are adopted effectively. We remain involved during the entire implementation process, offering on-site engineering support and post-implementation evaluations to optimize results.
Adding Value to R&D Projects through Technical Review
Beyond project development, +NR provides technical review services to enhance existing R&D initiatives led by operators or third-party collaborators. Our experts critically analyze:
- Engineering assumptions and calculations to validate accuracy
- Process flow diagrams and system architectures for optimization
- Compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements
- Potential risks and mitigation strategies
By engaging our multidisciplinary team, operators can increase the technical robustness of their R&D projects, mitigating risks and identifying opportunities for cost savings and performance improvements.
Why Choose +NR for Your R&D Projects?
At +NR, we believe that innovation is a collective effort. Our strength lies in our ability to integrate diverse engineering disciplines into a coherent R&D strategy that addresses the unique challenges of the O&G sector. Whether you are developing new technologies for offshore platforms, enhancing automation in processing facilities, or innovating in field monitoring, we bring the technical expertise and project management capabilities to turn ideas into reality.
Our track record of successful collaborations with global operators demonstrates our commitment to advancing the industry through innovative, practical, and scalable solutions. We understand that every R&D project requires a blend of technical precision, creative thinking, and operational insight.
Ready to take your next project from concept to reality? Connect with +NR today to explore how our R&D support can make a difference in your operations.
