Simulation software

At H-ES we use SINTEF’s MEMW, which is composed of 3 modules dedicated to 3 different types of offshore discharge.

The OSCAR module accounts for weathering and physical, biological and chemical processes affecting oil at sea, which have been coupled with laboratory activities at the SINTEF headquarters. This is used by our experts to simulate oil spills.

The DREAM module accounts for up to 200 chemical components, each described by a set of physical, chemical and toxicological parameters. This is used by our experts to simulate chemical discharge.

The ParTrack module, developed to simulate any particulate discharge in the marine environment, such as those released in drilling operations, but can be used for any particulate discharge at sea.

Our environmental team collaborates with you to gather the essential data required for our advanced simulations. This data can include release durations, environmental parameters, release coordinates, time step intervals, oil/chemical/particulate components, flow rates, and well architecture.

We then conduct simulation tests using the collected data to verify that there are no issues and all inputs have been correctly selected, ensuring the accuracy of the results.

The simulations are then executed for the designated durations. The time required to complete the simulations can vary depending on the amount of input data, particularly concerning the time steps and the output of results.

After simulating discharge in the marine environment, our team meticulously processes, analyses, and interprets the generated data. This crucial step ensures that raw outputs are transformed into meaningful and actionable insights.

Using Python Anaconda, an open-source distribution for Python and R programming languages, we begin by cleaning and extracting the necessary data. This phase ensures that the data accurately reflects our clients’ needs, resulting in a refined and specific dataset.

The cleaned data is then input into Esri’s ArcGIS Pro for advanced data visualisation. Here, we create a variety of maps, such as presence probability and environmental sensitivity maps, to effectively represent the findings. This can be in the form of maps, graphs, charts and direct screen captures from the simulation software.

We perform detailed statistical analyses, extracting data from both MEMW and ArcGIS to identify relationships and trends. These analyses are represented through graphs and diagrams, providing clear and comprehensive insights.

The analysed data is compiled into PowerPoint presentations or detailed reports, depending on the client’s preferred format. Throughout the entire project, our team collaborates closely with clients and partners to ensure  the final results are tailored to their specific needs.

By following this thorough post-simulation data treatment process, we deliver precise and valuable insights, supporting our clients in making informed decisions based on the most accurate and relevant data available.

Our environmental team

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Benjamin Livas

Benjamin Livas

Environmental Modelling Expert

After obtaining a Master’s degree in aquatic ecosystem dynamics, Benjamin began working in the coastal environment field in a CNRS laboratory in Dinard, France. This work led him to bring his expertise to the oil and gas industry, working as a marine and coastal environment engineer on various projects. A keen surfer, Benjamin finds a perfect balance between his love of the sea and his work, often spending his weekends riding the waves off the French coast. With 11 years’ experience, he now specialises in the modelling of any discharge into the marine environment (oil spills, produced water, drilling cuttings, etc.) and the associated response, mainly using the MEMW© software, of which he is a certified user by the developers, SINTEF, located in Norway.

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Lauren Derby

Lauren Derby

Environmental Modelling Engineer

Lauren holds a Master’s degree in Physical Geography from the University of Newcastle in England, and initially worked as a teaching assistant at the same university. She then joined the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the UN’s leading authority on weather, climate and water. During this time, she contributed to the history of global climate observing systems, the analysis of key climate variables, and the study of glaciers and sea ice, focusing on cryospheric hazards.

A keen sportswoman, Lauren devotes her spare time to a variety of sporting activities, balancing her demanding job with her love of exercise. In 2023, Lauren joined H-ES to strengthen the Environmental Services department, bringing her expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Python programming.