Island Offshore drilling method for Norway
Island Offshore’s new coiled tubing drilling method is being applied to a contract for ground core sampling in Norway, in what is said to be the world’s longest and deepest subsea road tunnel.
Using a monohull vessel, Island Offshore’s system can construct high angles in the well over a short distance (up to 15 degrees over 30m drilled hole). In order to avoid a full marine riser spread, a state-of-the-art subsea injector has been developed by the company. A second injector is also installed onboard the vessel in order to keep the coiled tubing between the subsea injector and the vessel in tension.
“This project provides Island Offshore a unique opportunity to qualify and test new technology and equipment that can contribute to a significant development of the Light Well Intervention services currently performed by Island Offshore,” said Robert Friedberg, managing director, Island Offshore.
“In addition, we see a number of other applications of this technology – such as pumping/acidizing, Plug and Abandonment and advanced core sampling. We will now offer this technological “breakthrough” to the market with a best practice reference to showcase,” he added.
The work is currently being carried out by Island Performer, Island Offshore’s newest vessel. Around 440m of core samples will be taken from four individual locations in order to obtain detailed information about the geological conditions of the tunnel route, with water depths ranging from 200-300m.
Island Offshore’s role in this project is part of a back-to-back agreement with VTT Maritime, which was awarded a contract for ground core sampling earlier this year.
By Rachael Doyle
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