A method and apparatus for heating a portion of a subsea structure is
provided. The method includes pumping a fluid through a length of tubing
such that the temperature of the fluid increases. The temperature
increase of the fluid is created by friction in the tubing, and may be
also be created by at least one pressure reducing device such as an
orifice, pressure reducing valve, or relief valve. A subsea structure may
be heated by transferring heat from fluid circulating in a closed loop
configuration or by direct application of fluid to the subsea structure
using a nozzle. A remotely operated vehicle may be utilized to transport
some or all of the equipment necessary, including pumps, tubing, heat
exchangers, nozzles and tanks. The remotely operated vehicle provides
power to the pumps used for circulating fluid through the tubing.