1. Building Semi-submersible Rigs In Canada- is It Feasible?

Abstract

Introduction

What are the special considerations involved in building a semi-submersible rig in Canada today? Husky
Oil and Bow Valley Resource Services are currently involved in the construction of two semi-submersible
drilling rigs. One is being built in Sandefjord, Norway by Framaes, the other in Saint John, New Brunswick
by Saint John Shipbuilding and Dry-dock.

The former is an enhanced Pacesetter design with the Standard six-column and two-pontoon
arrangement. This is probably the most popular type of rig currently being built.

The latter is an 8-column design and is very similar in ail essential features to the enhanced Pacesetter. It
differs only in such areas as equipment and accommodation layouts. From a rig owner''s standpoint. the
rigs are essentially identical, as can be seen in Table 1.

Both rigs are built to conform to the so-called 35-degree* rule which allows them to float with the loss of
buoyancy in one column.

As semi-submersibles go, both are medium size and very similar to those currently operating on the East
Coast. Both rigs will be drilling initially for the Husky/Bow Valley joint venture off the coast of Nova Scotia.
Simultaneous construction provides a unique opportunity to compare construction from every angle.

History of Rigs Built in Canada

A review of rig building in this country reveals that over the

*The actual angle that the rig will float with one column completely flooded is not necessarily 35 degrees.
Rather it is determined by the size of the columns and the configuration of the rigs. Calculations for the
ACKER 3.2 rig show that it would float at a 26-degree list with one column flooded. The object of this rule
is to provide an additional margin of safety and time to evacuate the rig even though it may be listing
dangerously past 15 years, a substantial number of offshore rigs, both semi-submersibles and jack-ups,
have been built. There is an established construction capability for jack-up rigs.

Witness to this is the fact that over the past three years, nine units have been completed and three are
under construction. All of these have been built in the Davie Shipbuilding yards at Lauzon, Quebec. Table
2 tabulates the Davie jack-up rigs. The principal owner of these units is Global Marine Drilling. These rigs
are currently at work in a variety of places around the world-Brazil, Tunisia, Gulf of Suez, and the Gulf of
Mexico. Global Marine states that their Canadians-built rigs are very satisfactory and cost-competitive
with any of the other rigs in their fleet.

Semi-Submersible Rigs

There have been no rigs of this type built in Canada since 1978.

Table 3 lists those floating rigs built in Canada. The first four were of the three-legged design and the next
three were moored semis using the long pontoon-column arrangements.

(Figure in full paper)

The 709 was a dynamically position semi and the 471 was a ship-shaped rig.
SEDCO and several other users report satisfactory performance. They compare favorably with any other
units in their fleet.

2. Reduced Slop and Contaminated Mud in Semi Submersible Rig

Operations
Abstract
Periodically on semi-submersibles, it is required to perform planned and occasionally unplanned disconnects of the
marine riser from the subsea BOP stack. The reasons are diverse but always result in a change out of fluids in the
riser. Typical circumstances for riser disconnects are: preparation for upcoming bad weather situations, changing
from drilling to completion riser and the termination of operations on an exploration well.

Should the fluid in the riser happen to be of an environmentally unfriendly nature at the time of disconnect, this fluid
must first be displaced to some benign fluid type (e.g. seawater). In the typical displacement, contamination of fluid in
the marine riser occurs which generates significant volumes of interface waste or "slop??. This might result in a
volume of emulsified fluid being created when oil-based drilling fluid or "mud?? (OBM) mixes with seawater for
example. Since this displacement process often leads to undesirable mixing of two fluids, several prevention methods
are often attempted, e.g. the use of viscous pills or similar as a "barrier??. Despite these measures, undesirable
mixing issues still persist due to the large inside diameter (ID) of the riser compared to the wellbore below. This
means that fluid velocities in the riser during a typical displacement are drastically reduced which in turn reduces the
effects of the barrier pills. The interfaces between the different fluids have been recorded as being in the region of 30-
60 m3 (188-377 bbl) when the rig to sea bed distance is 350 m (1,148 ft). The problem is obviously exacerbated
significantly as water and hence riser depths increase.

Another issue with riser disconnect is mud residue adhering to riser walls. Should these residues contain
hydrocarbons or other environmentally unfriendly substances, the potential exists for discharge to the sea while the
riser is open-ended in the water while the rig awaits better weather. In many cases, upon recovery, the riser needs to
be cleaned on the rig deck prior to the next operation.

Riser disconnect can become a costly operation when logistics, planning and slop volume treatment/disposal are all
taken into account.

Concept
A Riser Displacement Cleaning Tool (RDCT) has been developed in an attempt to create a mechanical barrier
during displacement to resolve the problem. This tool reduces the slop or interface volume created during the
displacement process and simultaneously assists in cleaning the inner wall (ID) of the riser. The tool would be
expected to be run along with a storm or hurricane-type packer or with the Emergency Drill Pipe Hang Off Tool
(EDPHOT). The RDCT is installed at the subsea wellhead and is pumped to surface via the choke/kill lines after the
drill pipe is tripped to surface. Two installation and transport to surface processes are described below. The tool
operates without the need for modification to existing rig equipment and typically does not require any additional rig
time to run (the time needed to make up the tool is more than recovered through not having to displace the riser to
clean fluid).
3. An Experimental Study On Extreme Responses of a Moored Semi-
submersible Rig
ABSTRACT:

In this paper, the extreme motion & tension response characteristics of a deep water semi-submersible rig are
investigated in various environmental conditions. A series of model tests of semi-submersible rig with 1:50 scale has
been conducted in order to verify the motion responses in regular, irregular & current at the ocean engineering basin,
MOERI/KORDI. The spread catenary mooring system of semi-submersible rig was considered and the mooring
system in model tests was applied to truncated mooring system for full water depth of 1,000m to the limitation of the
basin. A numerical simulation using higher order boundary element method and time domain based finite element
method to investigate the dynamic behavior of the truncated mooring system of semi-submersible rig has been
carried out and the results are compared with those of some selected model tests.

INTRODUCTION

A deep water semi-submersible rig must have high deck load capacity because deep water developments tend to be
far offshore, where resupply is expensive. In these structural characteristics of semisubmersible rig required to
operate in deep water and the semisubmersibles have relatively low initial stability due to small GM values. For deep
mooring simulation, the problem due to testing tank depth limitations require large scaling factors which violate most
floating body hydrodynamics requirements. In order to predict the dynamic responses of a moored structure in
mooring lines based on their model tests, it is crucial to design a truncated mooring system enables match the
dynamic interactions of the corresponding full water depth mooring system with the model. Recently, a number of
researches for experimental techniques of deep water mooring system using hybrid model testing which combines
numerical simulations and truncated model test have been continuously performed (Xiaohong Chen et al., 2000,
Stansberg et al., 2002, Hong et al., 2004, Dongsheng Qiao et al., 2010).

4. Study On Simplified Fatigue Assessment Method For Semi-

Submersible Rig In South China Sea
ABSTRACT

This paper study on simplified fatigue assessment method for semisubmersible rig in South China Sea. The
radiation/diffraction theory is used to calculate wave load acting on semi-submersible rig. The 3D FEA model of the
global rig is made using shell element, beam element, mass element, and the global stress responses of the rig are
calculated. According to wave long-term distribution of South China Sea and global stress responses of the rig, the
parameters for the longterm Weibull distribution of stress range of the global structure are gained. Once-in-a-lifetime
wave loads are calculated for the rig in South China Sea, and once-in-a-lifetime hot spot stress range of the
structures are calculated using once-in-a-lifetime wave loads. The structural fatigue life are calculated by simplified
fatigue assessment method, and the results are compared with the results of the spectralbased fatigue assessment
method, the simplified fatigue assessment method is verified at last.

INTRODUCTION

Fatigue assessment is a critical procedure for structure design of semisubmersible drilling rig, simplified fatigue
assessment method and spectral-based fatigue assessment method are two usable method for structural fatigue
assessment. The so-called Simplified fatigue assessment method is also sometimes referred to as the permissible
or allowable stress range method, which employs the Weibull distribution to the long-term stress distribution of
marine structure in the ocean. The Weibull shape parameter is predetermined from a detailed stress spectrum
anslysis or by using historical, empirical data. The hot spot stress is calculated by finite element analysis. Structure
fatigue life can be simply assessment based on Weibull shape parameter and hot spot stress range. The essence of
the spectral fatigue analysis method is to model the long-term random sea state process as several short-term
stationary Gaussian processes, each defined by the wave spectral density function.

5. H2S Risk Management Plan For A Semi-Submersible Drilling Rig

ABSTRACT:

Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) is one of the main hazards involved with Oil and Gas operations, posing significant risks to
people and assets. In the past years, due to the limited availability of deep water rigs, operators often found
themselves with limited choices when procuring drilling rigs. This meant that sometimes the operator had to intervene
to upgrade the rig to meet the specific company needs. This paper presents the activities carried out to prepare a
conventional semi-submersible rig for an exploration drilling campaign on HP/HT wells with an estimated H2S
concentration up to 6%. The significance of the expected H2S concentrations, the intrinsic uncertainty of the
exploration wells and the typical constraints of an offshore environment required a comprehensive approach that
goes beyond the design envelope and the normal operating modes of conventional rigs. As a result, different
measures were developed together with the rig contractor, targeting rig equipments, operating procedures, training
and awareness of the personnel. This paper aims at disseminating the process followed, the protection principles
adopted and the cost-effective solutions implemented, whose validity is general and can be extended to similar
contexts

6. Future Semi-Submersible Drilling Units

Abstract

The petroleum industry, over the past 20 years, has increased its capability to drill in rough ocean environments by
developing the semi-submersible type hull form drilling vessel. This paper presents the past history, present
achievements, and predicts the past history, present achievements, and predicts the future of the semi-submersible
hull form.

The petroleum industry is experienced in using the column-stabilized semi-submersible (SSM) to drill and survive
severe ocean storms in which other marine vessels either go to sheltered water or run from the storm. Two recent
major accidents, the OCEAN RANGER and the ALEXANDER KIELLAND, involving the SSM hull form have resulted
in a re-examination of inspection and regulation requirements. This paper describes some of the actions that
designers, operators, classification societies and the petroleum industry are taking to insure that accidents like these
two do not occur again. The impact of these accidents on world-wide usage of existing and future SSMs is also
discussed.

The conclusion of this paper outlines design modifications which are required for safe worldwide use of the SSM and
includes topics such as structural redundancy, reserve buoyancy, secondary ballast and lifesaving facilities.

Introduction

1. General

The semi-submersible (SSM) (Figure l) is a floating column-stabilized platform consisting structurally of:

Lower Hulls - For attaining transit draft and maintaining a low center of gravity at drill draft Column For a highly
transparent buoyancy at the water plane Deck For the equipment, storage, housing, and work areas Truss To join all
the structures together The structure is steel and depends upon welded joints. Normal fabricated steel weight varies
between 6,000 and 12,000 tons. The primary structure and the tubular truss joints are designed, fabricated and
inspected to a very high quality. The buoyancy of the unit is like a ship with many compartments that can be flooded
or de-ballasted to change the draft or trim of the SSM. The operating draft of the SSM varies between 70 and 90 feet
with an air gap from the water surface to the main deck of approximately 30 to 50 feet. The transit draft of the SSM is
approximately 20 feet.

The SSMs major advantage when compared to a ship-shaped unit is in reduced motions when subjected to waves
(Figure 2). Roll, pitch and heave are greatly reduced by the transparency and by spreading the water plane area.
With the spreading of the water plane area, the natural period of the unit increases proportionately. period of the unit
increases proportionately. The natural period of an SSM in heave is normally about 20 seconds, which is far above
the everyday wave period experienced during drilling. Reduced motions allow the operator to keep the operation
going safely and effectively in severe wave conditions. Heave motion is most critical because the basic objective is to
drill a hole and to do this one must keep the bit on the bottom of the hole with the proper weight and rotation. Other
motions such as roll and pitch decrease the efficiency of the people working on the vessel and can become critical
when severe. When handling a 200-ton BOP stack or a 90-foot stand of drill pipe, reduced motions greatly increase
the work that can be accomplished.

The inherent good motion characteristics of the SSM as compared to the ship-shaped vessel are a basic fact and not
a design improvement. However, much has been done to optimize size, shape, etc., to get the best motion reductions
so drilling operations can continue.

The major disadvantages of the SSM as compared to the ship-shaped vessel have been its deck loading capability
and mobility.

7. Rig Modifications Enhancing Capabilities of Third Generation Semi's

IADC Members

Abstract

The drilling and/or completing of exploration, appraisal and development wells in today's business environment
places increasing demands on an ageing Semi-Submersible fleet. In respect of development drilling, operating
companies require more complex wells to be brought on line in a timely and efficient manner such that the production
cost per barrel is minimised. The need to enhance the capabilities of existing Semi-Submersible units in order to meet
these needs has never been greater. It is important that Operating Companies and Drilling Contractors align their
respective goals both technically and commercially in order for both to remain competitive within their respective
markets, and meet future needs.

This paper describes:

* The change in the type of wells drilled in the North Sea over the past few years, and also the type of wells that will
be required in the future.

* The age and capabilities of the existing UK Sector semi-submersible fleet.

* The change in market availability of semi-submersible units in the UK Sector.

* Rig characteristics required for the enhancement of current and future performance.

* The importance of Drilling Contractor and Operating Company goal alignment for performance improvements.

* The upgrading of a third generation semi-submersible with (a) active heave compensation (b) 7500 psi circulating
system (c) enhanced solids control capabilities, and the associated benefits plus rational behind these upgrades.

* Annual savings in the region of $4,740,000 can be achieved with the above upgrades, depending on the daily
operating costs.
Introduction

Over the past 10 years, there has been a dramatic change in the type of operations performed by semi-submersible
drilling units in the North Sea, with a far greater focus on directional subsea development projects along with deep
water and HPHT wells, as opposed to the conventional exploration and appraisal wells. There is an increasing trend
towards bringing previous discoveries which were considered to be marginal from an economical prospective, on line
by using new subsea technology coupled with reduced drilling costs through performance improvements. This
change in activity coupled with a steady rise in the average age of the existing fleet of rigs forces us to ask the
question, "How suitable are these existing units in terms of performance optimisation for the type of work that is
currently being undertaken ?" More importantly as an industry we must be asking ourselves the question, "How can
we improve performance?" A study was initiated into reviewing the potential performance improvements that could be
achieved through the upgrading of an existing semi-submersible unit. These potential performance improvements
were also viewed in light of the rig type and the work programme that was to be executed.

This paper includes a case study of the equipment upgrades planned for the Sedco 714, and also presents an
example of how such upgrades, along with the selection of an appropriate unit, can satisfy the required performance
improvements that the existing market place demands.

North Sea Activity

There has been a dramatic rise in Semi-submersible rig activity in the North Sea over the past 2 years, due to a
number of factors including changes in technology, taxation and oil demand - see Figure 1.

Semi-submersible activity has shifted towards development drilling in the past few years - see figure 2.

P. 733^

8. Semi-Submersible Research And Its Applications

ABSTRACT

This chapter outlines work in progress at the University of Strathclyde on a co-ordinated research programme dealing

with the stability of semi-submersibles. It begins with a brief review of the present situation before explaining why

research is needed This is followed by a statement of the research objectives, an explanation of the method of

approach and a description of the research programme Consideration is also given to management, initial work and

future developments

INTRODUCTION

Ever since the focus of offshore hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation shifted from the relatively shallow and calm

waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the more hazardous ones of the North Sea In the early 1970s, one of the major

challenges for the operators has been to find the most effective floating structures for carrying out various tasks under

North Sea conditions Many consideration must be met before a satisfactory offshore vehicle is designed, and

practical experience has shown that the deal combination of the various parameters of a particular offshore structure
will never actually be achieved For example, a conventional drillship has desirable mobility characteristics but is less

effective as a working platform because of its streamlined form.

Operational experience has shown that one of the most efficient vehicles for North Sea operations is the semi-

submersible, in particular a design with twin pontoons, connected to the working deck by four to eight vertical

columns. Semi-submersibles have built up a good record of working reliably in hazardous conditions. However, as

attempts are made to get even more 'value' from them - for example, by increasing the deck load-carrying capacity -

questions inevitably arise over how to quantify the effects of proposed changes on the safety and stability of semi-

submersibles. In this respect studies must also be made that will take into account the lessons learnt from two recent

major disasters, those involving the 'Alexander Kielland' in 1980 and the 'Ocean Ranger' m 1982

Safety in its broadest sense is a very complex subject, but from the point of new of semi-submersible performance it

is stability which requires the major focus of attention. The importance of this aspect is fully recognised but the factors

involved in semi-submersible stability are very closely related and cannot be readily translated into rules and

regulations that wll make possible efficient performance along with a sound level of safety However, if cost-effective

exploration and exploitation of offshore hydrocarbon resources are to continue, the most rational criteria for semi-

submersible stability do need to be developed and applied.

With this background in mind it was felt that a useful contribution could be made by the University of Strathclyde

because research teams have been studying the stability of ships since 1973 and more recently have investigated

the motion responses of a semi-submersible listed through damage, incorrect ballasting or other causes.

9. Risk Evaluation against Main Accidental Events for a Semi-

Submersible Drilling Rig
Abstract

The risk assessment is one of the main issues for all of the offshore units operating on Norwegian Continental Shelf
(NCS). The risk assessment is required to fulfill Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA)/Norwegian Maritime Authority
(NMA) regulations and the requirements from the classification societies.

This paper discusses risk evaluations for a semi-submersible drilling rig operating on NCS that is classified as a
Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU). In this paper, four accidental events are used for the risk evaluation such as
fire, explosion, ship collision and dropped objects. Dimensioning/design accidental loads from the accidental events
are introduced and verified through Accidental Limit State (ALS) assessments. A simple method and finite elements
analysis are adopted to show the current designs can sustain the accidental loads. It is also described how the risks
are evaluated based on the principle of As Low As Reasonable Practicable (ALARP).
10. Redefining the Environmental Envelope for Surface Bops on a Semi-
Submersible Drilling Unit
Abstract

One of the primary drivers for the deepwater exploration is currently the rig size to be able to support a large heavy
riser and subsea BOPs. This in turn limits rig availability, which significantly increases rig rates. Surface BOPs
(surface stack) offer an opportunity to utilise much smaller semi-submersible rigs and prelaid moorings, provided the
system could manage the environmental conditions.

Woodside Energy Limited has designed a surface BOP (SBOP) and high-pressure riser system to be used on semi
submersible drilling units for exploration drilling in the harsh environment of the North West Shelf, in Western
Australia. In order to comply with Safety Case legislation in Australia the process described in this paper included
system analysis, risk assessment and detailed design.

The end result was a SBOP system with several unique features that allow operations in harsher operating
environments than have previously been considered with this technology. These include novel slip joint design, BOP
support configuration and a unique seabed arrangement. The seabed arrangement allows management of the
environmental loads, ability to weight shed the casing loads and mechanically disconnect / re-connect. The ability to
re-connect also permits the suspension and or conversion of the well from an exploration to a production well offering
significant cost reduction potential for sub-sea completions.

Introduction

On Jack-Up, Platforms and Tension Leg Platform (TLP) operations it was more common for the BOP to be located at
Surface. This surface configuration ensures ease of access for maintenance purposes; a reduction in the redundancy
required in the system and improved operations performance. This was due to the time being saved running the BOP
and Riser since the riser was casing rather than a special flanged joint. Conversely semi-submersible drilling units are
synonymous with running large BOPs to the seabed with a large diameter riser providing a low-pressure conduit back
to the rig.

As exploration frontiers have moved into deeper water the riser and BOP systems have been extended to meet these
requirements. As a result rigs have had to have larger capacity to support the riser loads. This has resulted in the
building of new rigs (and conversions) to meet the demands.

The high cost of building new rigs typically translates to higher day rates than 2nd and 3rd generation semi-
submersible rigs. For example in Australia the differential can be over US$100,000 per day. Additionally many of the
world's future deepwater provinces (including Australia) are remote from current rig markets. In a tight market this can
result in very significant mobilisation and demobilisation cost. In Australia, for typically short drilling campaigns the
high costs can render some wells (and developments) as non-commercial.

The placement of the BOPs at the seabed also significantly increase some of the HSE risks such as gas above the
BOP1, availability of drilling rigs for relief well drilling in the event of a blowout and risks associated with the handling
of the riser. If a high-pressure riser and SBOP system could be demonstrated to be as safe, or safer than current
oilfield practice, many of the disadvantages listed above could be avoided.

Despite the fact that Jack-ups and TLP's use SBOPs there is a strong emotional attachment to subsea BOPs in the
belief that it is impossible to design a reliable high pressure riser. However Unocal in Asia have drilled over 120 wells
(some of which are in over 1800m (~6000 feet) water depth utilising this technology without any reported riser failure.
More recently Chevron in China have reportedly drilled at least three wells using SBOPs on a semi, again without
failure.
11. Design of Semi-Submersible Tender Assisted Drilling And Workover
Systems For Harsh Weather Applications

ABSTRACT:

The paper outlines the basic specifications for a "General Purpose Tender Support Vessel (TSV)" for harsh weather

application which will reduce costly modifications between I contracts'' to adapt to different client requirements. Use of

semi-submersible TSVs to assist platform drilling and workover operations has been demonstrated by the industry as

an effective means for reducing CAPEX and platform topsides weight in deep~ater hostile environments where

convent10nal jack-up or barge tenders would not prove feasible. This paper reviews the semisubmersible TSV

applications to-date in the North Sea and Southern Hemisphere. Differing project requirements have resulted in costly

''one-off'' solutions for the semisubmersible TSV vessels employed to-date with little opportunity for the converted

vessels to operate as a "General Purpose TSV" for long-term platform drilling and workover assistance. Significant

benefits would also accrue to the field operator from standardised drilling platform layout and access to a number of

semi-submersible rigs with similar capabilities for the TSV role.

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Tender assisted drilling (TAD) requires the employment of a Tender Support Vessel (TSV) for the development

drilling and workover operations associated with exploiting hydrocarbon resources in shallow to deep water ocean

basins. However, in deepwater and harsh environment conditions, the proven solution is a semi-submersible TSV

moored close to the fixed platform (References 1,2). Significant savings in topside facilities and capital cost are

achieved by using TAD. For example, use of TAD in SHELL''s Gannet field development in the UK North Sea 15

estimated to have facilitated net savings of some 2000 tonnes of topsides weight and 16 million of CAPEX (Ref.3).

The extent of drilling support can vary from field to field ranging from accommodation facilities to provision of drilling

power, preparation and pumping of drilling fluids, cuttings cleaning system, tubular storage, treating of hazardous

waste, safe refuge 1n emergencies etc.

12. Interaction of Ice Floes With the Columns of a Semi-Submersible

ABSTRACT
Semi-submersible rigs have enjoyed a history of success in oil and gas exploration world-wide. New areas of
exploration are opening up in several ice infested areas, such as the Labrador Shelf, Bering Sea and the Sea of
Okhotsk, and in attempts-to extend drilling seasons into the ice season, work is now being carried out to investigate
the ice-worthiness of semi-submersibles in the presence of pack ice. A preliminary research project has been carried
out to determine the effect of a field of small ice floes on a semi-submersible drilling unit. Physical model tests have
been conducted with two main objectives; firstly, to determine the ability of the columns to prevent ice from passing
between them and thus minimizing the chance of riser damage, and secondly, to determine the total ice load on the
semi during interaction with ice field concentrations. Three models were used, representing one half of a four, six and
eight legged semi. The dimensions and spacing of the columns were such that the heave and pitch response were
kept constant. The tests were conducted at a model scale of 1:30 using synthetic ice.

INTRODUCTION
As offshore oil exploration and production is extended into increasingly hostile environments, the need for expanded-
knowledge is evident. Specifically, the use of moored semi-submersible platforms in ice-infested waters creates the
need for a more complete understanding of the problems of ice interaction with vertical cylinders. A considerable
amount of work has been done, 1, 2 on the ice forces developed on a cylindrical indenter of low aspect ratio (D/h) - (i.e.
small diameter (D) to ice thickness (h) ration, when moved into an infinite or semi-infinite ice sheet. In addition, some
work has been carried out with cylindrical structures which have a large diameter relative to the ice thickness (i.e.
high aspect ration (D/h) and are interacting with infinite ice sheets.

However, in actual practice, a semi-submersible in ice is much more likely to encounter an approaching ice field
composed of broken floes, either created naturally or by icebreakers, and therefore, the present experimental study
has addressed the problem of multiple low aspect ratio "legs" interacting with an ice field of broken floes.

MODEL DESCRIPTION
Three sets of semi-submersible columns were constructed at a scale of 1:30 from aluminum sheet. The models were
designed so that their total cross-section areas and moment of area were constant in order to compare on an equal
basis. Figure 1 shows the semi-submersible column models and their principal dimensions.

The semi-submersible column models were rigidly attached to a beam mounted on the, main basin towing carriage
and instrumented to measure force on the models during ice encounter. The carriage was towed at a uniform speed
of 0.185 m/s (lm/s full scale) into the ice floe field.

The crushing strength and flexural strength of the ice were 19.45 kpa (full scale 583.5 kpa) and 8.31 kpa (full scale
249.3 kpa) respectively and the field was composed of floes of a uniform thickness of 40 mm (full scale 1.2 m). Figure
2 shows experimental set up.

13. Detailed Structural Design For Thunder Horse Semi-Submersible PDQ

ABSTRACT

The Thunder Horse semi-submersible is intended for production of hydrocarbons at Thunder Horse field in the Gulf of

Mexico(GOM), Mississippi Canyon Block 778. The unit houses production, drilling and living quarters(PDQ). It is

designed for 25 years operation on location with catenary moorings. The unit has four columns supporting a box like

upper-hull(Topside) with a moon-pool for drilling. The columns are connected by four pontoons, which form a square-

shaped lower hull. Both lower and upper hulls are all-welded structures with primary and secondary stiffening.

Pontoons, columns and upper hull, all contributes to the resistance to functional and environmental loadings. The

structure is designed for ultimate and fatigue strength at the operational draught, 30.0 meters. After completion at

Okpo shipyard, the integrated PDQ is scheduled to be dry transported. The Thunder Horse PDQ will be loaded in

Okpo using the float on method. After voyage via the Cape of Good Hope, it will be discharged using the float off

method in Ingleside, Texas (USA). This paper is to present a description as follows; -.Detailed structural design. -

.Fabrication process and sequence.

INTRODUCTION

The Thunder Horse semi-submersible is intended for production of hydrocarbons at Thunder Horse field in the Gulf of

Mexico(GOM), Mississippi Canyon Block 778. The field is located in water depth of 1850m, 240km SE of New

Orleans.(ref. Fig.1) (figure 1 shown in paper) These areas have estimated 1.5 billion barrels reported. Also there are
world class subsea hardwares with 15ksi Guideline less Trees, High pressure 8-12 Flow lines, Insulated Steel

Catenary Risers with Flexible Connectors, 150km of Flow lines, and 100km Control & Injection Umbilicals(ref. Fig.2).

(figure 2 shown in paper) The PDQ will be the largest Production/Drilling Semi submersible in the world.

14. Dynamic Response of Moored Semi-Submersible Platforms to Non-

Collinear Wave, Wind And Current Loading
ABSTRACT:
The authors of this paper developed a non-linear time domain analysis procedure and calculation tools based on
these procedures to predict the motion response of moored semisubmersibles under wave, wind and current loading.
These tools have been validated with published results. In the first part of the paper a brief summary of the nonlinear
analysis procedures is given, together with some results obtained from predictions and published experimental and
theoretical results. In the second part of the paper the results of parametric studies investigating the effects of
variations in external wave, wind and current force magnitudes and directions on the dynamic motion response of
semisubmersible platforms are illustrated. These results show the sensitivity of certain types of response values as
the external forces vary in magnitude and in direction. Such results provide essential information for probability based
design procedures. In the last part of the paper, time domain models are used to simulate the incidents occurred in
the North Sea in 1990, in which mooring lines of some semi-submersibles were failed.

MOTION RESPONSE SIMULATION OF SEMISUBMERSIBLES UNDER WAVE, WIND AND CURRENT LOADING
Motion response prediction of offshore structures may be carried out using time domain or frequency domain models
or model tests. Frequency domain analysis uses the simplified, linearised form of the motion equations and it is very
economical. Time domain analysis, unlike frequency domain models, is adequate to deal with non-linearities such as
viscous damping and mooring forces, but most of the time it requires sophisticated solution techniques and it is
expensive to be employed. If the non-linearities in the system is significant or the external forces acting on the
structure is time dependent, then time domain methods must be employed. Calculations of wave induced motions of
semisubmersibles usually have been carried out using the Morison equation formulation.

15. Experimental Investigation of the Hydrodynamic Characteristics of a

Novel Column Design For Semi-submersible Platforms
Hydrodynamic features of a novel column design for semi-submersible platforms have been investigated. Each
column consists of a cylinder with a special pontoon design at the lower end called damper. Each of these dampers
is aimed at producing increased resistance for heave, roll and pitch motions by the combined action of curved upper
and lower surfaces and a passive jet system. The hydrodynamic performance of the concept has been investigated
analytically, numerically and experimentally. A testing procedure was established to efficiently carry out 848 forced-
oscillation tests within 4 days. A systematic processing of time series provided values of added-mass and drag
coefficients for the different configurations, amplitudes and periods considered. Linear damping due to radiated
waves was observed to be small. Hence the main source of damping was found to be quadratic damping.
Conclusions about the behavior of the concept have been drawn. INTRODUCTION The purpose of this paper is to
investigate the hydrodynamic properties of a novel column design for semi-submersible platforms supporting wave-
energy converters (see Figure 1). The novel concept consists of a circular cylindrical column, equipped with a
rotational symmetrical pontoon. Since this pontoon is expected to provide additional damping and added-mass, it is
denoted damper. As shown on Figure 2, this damper is a circular cylindrical body, whose diameter is larger than the
diameter of the column. The new concept of damper includes two particular features:

curved upper and lower surfaces, inducing cross-flows and vortex formation on the edge of the cylinder,
 a jet system: if the damper moves upwards, water enters through the intakes present on its upper side.
Water is then pushed radially inside the structure, and flows out through the side openings. All of this
process aimed at producing a counter current flow at each instant is referred to as the jet system.

16. A Study on the Steering Angle Optimization Considering Thruster

Interaction in a Semi-submersible
Abstract

Mobile offshore drilling units (MODU), such as semi-submersibles, usually employ multiple azimuth thrusters to
maintain their position during drilling or exploration. However it is reported that there is a considerable degradation
compared with its open water performance. This reduction results from thruster interactions with the hull, current and
other thrusts. Because it is essential for an accurate evaluation of the dynamic positioning capabilities (DP),
researches have been performed to understand and quantify the thruster interaction itself. However these thrusters
are often used as a self-propulsion device. In that case, thruster interaction affects the overall power, so the transit
speed would be decreased. In the present study, method to improve an effective thrust during the transit operation by
steering individual thruster considering the interaction was studied.

17. Explosionproof Electric Unit Heating Systems for Offshore Rigs

Abstract

We have developed an explosionproof electric unit heater system to operate in ambient temperatures down to -30F.
(-34C.) [-70F. (-57C.) with modification]. The self-contained system includes a blower, heating elements, controls and
provisions for focusing the warm airstream on provisions for focusing the warm airstream on personnel up to 20 feet
(6.1 meters) away. personnel up to 20 feet (6.1 meters) away. Ratings up to 91 KW (310,000 BTU/HR) will provide air
temperature rises as high as 164F. provide air temperature rises as high as 164F. (91C.).

Introduction

Comfort heating on the deck of a rig operating in arctic and subarctic climates presents a unique set of engineering
challenges. Traditionally steam unit heaters, consisting of a steam coil and explosionproof blower mounted in a
cabinet, have been used. However, this requires a source of steam, usually a separate boiler, to feed the unit
heaters. Both the boiler and the lines running to the heaters are high maintenance items, especially in harsh
environments where they tend to freeze up. If insulation is not properly replaced after repair, freezeup will properly
replaced after repair, freezeup will soon reoccur.

To avoid the problems associated with a steam system, we were asked to develop an electric explosionproof unit
heater system for use on a large semi-submersible rig that was placed in service early last year. The design was to
meet the following criteria:

1. Safe operation in a methane gas atmosphere and prompt, safe shutdown when hydrogen sulfide is detected.

2. Resistance to salt spray corrosion.

3. Qualification to U.S. Coast Guard requirements which involves approval by either the Underwriters Laboratories or
Factory Mutual Laboratories.

4. Airflow of at least 2000 standard cubic feet of air per minute (944 dM3/S).

5. A capacity of 91 KW (310,000 BTU/HR) at 575 volts, 3 phase, which produces an air temperature rise of 148F.
(82C.).

6. Suitablility for operation in an ambient temperature of -30F. (-34C.).

7. Focusing the airstream to achieve 50F. (28C.) minimum temperature rise 20 feet (6.1 meters) away from the unit
outlet.

8. Rotation of the entire unit in a horizontal plane to any one of eight positions, and/or tilting it at 15, 30 or 45 to the
horizontal.

9. Individually replaceable heating elements.

10. A protecive housing around the entire assembly to reduce the chances of accidental damage.

BASIC THEORY

To operate safely in an environment containing combustible gases, electrical equipment must satisfy two basic
conditions:

First, any electric device that might produce a spark, such as a magnetic contactor, fuse or disconnect switch, must
be housed in an explosion proof enclosure that will contain an explosion without rupturing. (The British term
"flameproof" is equivalent to the U.S. term "explosionproof.") Cast aluminum enclosures are commonly available for
such service. To gain access to the electrical components, these enclosures are normally furnished with bolted
covers. The mating surfaces of the cover and box are machined flat to within 250 micro inches (635 micro
centimeters) and must be at least 3/4 inch (1.91 centimeters) wide so that the flame resulting from an internal
explosion will be cooled before it reaches the outside atmosphere.

18. Evaluating Cost Efficiency of Rigless P&A for Subsea Multiwell

Campaign
In a few years, there will be a need for performing a considerable number of subsea plug and abandonment (P&A) on
the Norwegian Continental Shelf (NCS). There are certain challenges associated with that such as more difficult
access to subsea wells compared to ordinary platform wells, high daily rates of semi-submersible rigs and the fact
that these rigs should function for drilling new exploration and production wells to sustain the hydrocarbon production.
For the moment there is large focus on looking for rigless technologies to decrease P&A cost and use of rig time. A
probabilistic approach should be used to assess the cost and duration saving potential of such technologies
compared to semi-submersible rigs to obtain a realistic picture.
In this paper, a rigless technology for cutting and retrieval of wellheads is described. For the first time, a risk based
probabilistic approach including learning curves, correlations and possible risk events is used to evaluate subsea
batch P&A.
A real case study, including use of a semi-submersible rig for subsea batch P&A is exemplified to show how a
probabilistic methodology can be implemented for obtaining statistical estimates of P&A cost and duration. Inclusion
of learning curves and correlations makes application of a probabilistic approach for multi-well campaigns
challenging. It is demonstrated how to incorporate learning curves, correlations and possible risk events to capture a
realistic range of cost and duration for multi-well P&A. In the second operational example, a light well intervention
vessel is employed to accomplish preparatory work as well as wellhead cutting and removal for P&A in batch
campaigns.
These two case studies will be compared from a cost and duration point of view and it is shown that there are
significant cost and duration savings related to transferring P&A activities from rigs to alternative intervention and
vessel technologies.

19. Opportunities for Increased Safety and Operability of A Deep-water

Semi-submersible Through the Application of HFE
Abstract
Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc. (Diamond Offshore) and BP Exploration Inc. (BP) are converting the 'Polyconfidence'
accommodation semi-submersible into a deep water drilling semi-submersible, the 'Ocean Confidence', suitable for
7500 feet water depth and harsh environments. In order to significantly improve the safety and reliability of the vessel
when operating, the conversion project is including Human Factors Engineering (HFE) practices during the detail
design and construction.
HFE has a long history in many high profile industries such as space travel, aerospace, nuclear power, and the
military, but this vast wealth of knowledge has had limited application in the offshore drilling industry. This omission
has been urgently challenged as long ago as 1990 by the HFE profession, ref. 1. The Ocean Confidence conversion
is a significant step for Diamond Offshore and BP to increase the benefits of HFE practices in the design and
operation of an offshore drilling vessel.
This paper will assist rig operators and marine construction companies who are interested in building or upgrading
vessels for offshore drilling operations and for operational teams from oil companies and drilling companies who are
targeting improved offshore safety and operational performance.
This paper will describe the strategy for implementation of HFE on the project, how the project organisation adapted
to implement HFE, the interfaces with designers, constructors and rig personnel and the methods used to verify and
measure the effective impact of HFE on the conversion and operation of the vessel.
This paper will show how Diamond Offshore and BP Exploration and have successfully incorporated HFE in the
design of the rig to date, areas where there are opportunities for further improvement and the forward program up to
the completion of the project in the second half of 1999.

Introduction
The Ocean Confidence drilling rig was conceived in 1997 as a deep water drilling and well completion semi-
submersible suitable for 7500 feet water depth and harsh environments, such as the UK and Norwegian North Sea.
The'Polyconfidence' accommodation vessel was selected as the vessel most suitable for conversion. The main
specifications for the conversion are shown in table 1.
Diamond Offshore has formed an integrated project team for the Ocean Confidence conversion. The drilling
company, oil company, major equipment vendors, shipyard and rig crew have been fully involved in the project
execution from an early stage. This project strategy is a new way for these companies to work together and has
presented many opportunities to work more effectively.
The safety strategy adopted for the Ocean Confidence design was considerably influenced by one of the major
project goals :- 'to produce a vessel with world-wide operational capability, particularly the European Sector, the US
Gulf Coast and West Africa'. This required that the vessel not only had to be designed to be safe and reliable, but this
safety and reliability needed to be demonstrated and documented using safety evaluation and risk assessment
techniques.

20. Rig Inspection and Safety Relationship

Abstract

Preventing the occurrence of accidents in drilling and well servicing operations is a constant and major concern for
any company or contractor acting in the upstream business. Analysis of accidents often identifies a number of
contributing factors and/or anomalies, among which the equipment related items play a significant role. This article
concentrates on the rig inspection process as a consistent method of detecting equipment related anomalies before
operations commence. These inspections enable the necessary corrections to be made in due time, thereby limiting
the occurrence of accidents once the rig is in operation.

When in-depth and systematic rig inspections are carried out, it is that the percentage of accidents where equipment
failure is the major cause remains very low. However, equipment condition factors contributing to the accidents still
remain present in a large number of cases.

Introduction
Rig Inspection activities are normally an important part of the drilling safety programme. The inspection objective is
both to prevent the occurrence of accidents, to limit their consequences and to minimise non-productive time linked to
equipment failure. Analysis of the accidents occurring during rig operations indicates that equipment is often involved
as a contributory factor. As rig equipment maintenance standards have, in general, suffered from depressed rig rates
during the past ten years, the need for detailed inspection has become more important.

Rig inspections normally consist of an independent and thorough survey of the rig drilling, mechanical, electrical, well
control, marine and safety equipment. This allows specialised expertise to be targeted at the equipment maintenance
standards, including full testing of equipment safety devices, to determine the level of equipment maintenance and
safe working condition.

The objective of this paper is to present the conclusions and lessons learnt from these inspections, based on the
survey of 75 rigs carried out since 1991. This paper also demonstrates the benefits of this integrated philosophy,
which includes a better safety approach, a worldwide standard, the rapid inclusion and verification of relevant safety
bulletins and alerts, plus appropriate examples of the system achievements, and confirms the old saying that "a
poorly maintained rig can never be a truly safe rig".

3. FACTORS AFFECTING SAFETY IN RIG OPERATIONS

It is important to establish the added value of inspection among the actions taken by Contractors/Companies to
improve rig operations with respect to safety results. In this search for improvement, one of the necessary steps is to
organise a consistent incident reporting and analysis system during rig operations. This system should apply not only
to accidents and near-misses, but also to anomalies, i.e. unsafe acts, unsafe equipment and incomplete procedures
which can be seen by the rig personnel as contributing factors to the occurrence of accidents. For deep analysis of
incidents, methods such as the Cause Tree Analysis can be used. This investigation method enables accurate
identification of the contributing factors to the accidents, and those which need to be corrected to prevent accident
reoccurrence. A survey of over 41 LTA's occurring over one year of drilling activity indicates that the contributing
factors leading to accidents can be split into three main groups:

Group 1: Human Behaviour Factors. These factors typically cover the human qualities necessary to minimise the
occurrence of and exposure to accidents during rig operations. They are always present and generally constitute the
major cause of accidents. These factors can be minimised by a comprehensive safety programme, including the set
up of clear corporate objectives, proper management of human resources, safety incentives, safety training, etc. If
properly organised, this safety programme promotes the detection of anomalies on the rig site which will fuel further
improvements. By nature, these factors are more subjective than objective; they are highly dependant on the area
environment (such as safety culture), and improving them generally requires significant time and effort.

21. Subsea Abandonment From Semi With Surface BOP

Abstract

Sub-Sea Abandonment With Surface BOP. Baram 8 (BA-8) consists of a single well in 179 feet of water supported
by a wellhead protection jacket in the Baram Field. The well was drilled in 1968 and the jacket was installed later in
the same year, both of which collapsed in 1975, pulling both the conductor and the riser with it. The collapsed
structure resulted in distortion of conductor and casing strings at the seabed. The well was in normal production
mode, producing less than 0.2 MMscf/d of gas at the time of collapse. The subsea safety valve closed, thus
preventing hydrocarbon release after the collapse.

In September/October, 2001, the conductor and casing strings were cut to a depth of 18 feet below seabed, leaving
the remaining casing shape non-circular. Deeper excavation was not possible at that time due to limitations of the
jack-up in use.

In July 2002, the Atwood Falcon, a semi-submersible drilling rig, was equipped to excavate some 30 feet below
seabed using the latest in seabed excavation equipment. The Jet Prop tool uses a large propeller to push a high
volume column of water vertically downwards onto the work area. This brings the seabed material into suspension
and disperses it from the work area.

The Jet Prop was able to create a large excavation around the wellhead with stable side slopes for safe diver
operations. The soil from the excavation area was dispersed laterally across the seabed by operating the Jet Prop
while manoeuvring the rig on its moorings. To support the cutting of conductor and casings some 30 feet below the
seabed, a full saturation (SAT) dive system was installed on the riser deck. This allowed continuous diving without
weather shut down.

After cutting the conductor and casing, a 30-inch conductor was installed to the surface. A used Permanent Guide
Base was modified and installed on the rig's spider beams to serve as a "false rotary". Space out of 30-inch
conductor connection was designed to allow a 10-foot "stroke". The rig's spider beams provided lateral support.

A 13 5/8 5000 psi ram/annular surface BOP (SBOP) was prepared in Singapore. The SBOP, placed on top of the
30" conductor, was located in the rig's cellar deck. Circulation returns were completed through a jack up-style bell
nipple.

The existing semi-submersible BOP control pod and choke & kill (C/K) lines were used on the SBOP for easy
installation and control.

In order to have effective operation, all the various components were pre-fabricated while the rig was drilling. The
SAT dive system was installed and commissioned prior to arrival at BA-8. The pipeline burial equipment, Jet Prop,
was air freighted to Singapore and assembled in the cellar deck. This equipment was powered with the rig's mud
pumps. The SBOP was assembled into a special frame to use the rig's subsea Koomey pod in a surface-mounted
upper female for SBOP control. Existing C/K lines were connected to the SBOP using No. 5 Cameron Hubs.

After the initial set-up, the P & A procedure followed a normal program.

To carry out proper and permanent abandonment of the collapsed well. This well abandonment is part of Baram 8
Decommissioning Project, which covers both the safe and proper abandonment of the collapsed well.

Introduction

Baram 8 (BA-8) is an isolated well located in 179 ft. of water in the Baram Field some 8 nautical miles from Tanjung
Baram, Miri, Sarawak, and Maylasia. The well was initially drilled as an appraisal well in April 1968 and subsequently
completed for oil production. A tripod-type wellhead protection jacket with a single riser was installed in August 1968.
Production from BA-8 was evacuated via an approximately 1.8 km pipeline to the BAP-A platform, which is located to
the Southeast of BA-8.

22. Safety Economics And Rig Contracts

Abstract

The main topic of this article is how financial incentives can impact focus on safety. The case used is the relationship
between the operator of a petroleum license and a drilling contractor. Focus is placed on how an operator can
influence the actions of a drilling contractor with the aid of financial incentives both in connection with hiring in rigs
and contract design. Furthermore, the article examines how these incentives can influence the contractor's focus on
safety.

The report is based in part on contract and incentive theory - see e.g. Laffont and Tirole (1989) and Salani (1999 ) -
and in part on empirical data. The empirical basis consists of various drilling contracts utilized on the Norwegian and
British shelves, as well as meetings and informal conversations with representatives of oil companies, rig companies
and safety administrators.
There are some general development trends in the offshore sector; such as outsourcing, focus on financial indicators
and increased focus on incentive-based compensation schemes, that have led to an increased emphasis on incentive
clauses in contracts, thus making this topic even more relevant. The growing degree of outsourcing has meant that
transactions previously conducted within the same organization are now governed by means of contracts between
independent companies. We also see an increasing degree of management by objectives in the companies, including
increased emphasis on financial indicators. One of the effects of this change appears to be a growing emphasis on
financial performance on a quarterly and annual basis. This management by objectives is followed up internally within
the companies and in contracts between independent companies, in part through the formulation of incentive
agreements.

The article highlights use of a number of incentive mechanisms that can affect the contractor's focus on safety. Key
words are:

Compensation format

Maintenance and repair clauses

Incentive schemes

Allocation of financial liability in the event of accidents

Consequences associated with violation of safety regulations

Bidding process

Designing of compensation format is a key area in which the operator gives incentives to the contractor. The
compensation format for contracted rigs generally consists of day rates differentiated according to operational status.
Differentiated day rates provide incentives to keep the rig in operating mode as much as possible. In general, drilling
contracts are framed so that the day rates include all costs, including costs associated with training, maintenance,
etc. This is a very clearly formulated type of contract with unambiguous division of responsibilities. At the same time,
it is true that money saved, e.g. within maintenance, will devolve to the supplier (who is the residual claimant). This
can represent a challenge for the industry during periods of tight liquidity.

Another key area with regard to incentives is the framing of maintenance and repair clauses. To what extent are the
day rates reduced if operations have to stop due to necessary maintenance and repair work? Time is normally set
aside during a full rate for such activities, but this option varies from contract to contract.

In drilling contracts, the term incentive schemes is used synonymously with compensation schemes beyond fixed day
rates. Such incentive mechanisms are used to a varying extent and with varying force. As explained in this article,
this definition of incentives is too narrow.

Allocation of financial liability related to accidents also functions as an incentive mechanism. The greater the share of
accident costs the contractor must bear, the greater is the incentive with regard to safety focus. Such considerations
must be weighed against the contractor's ability to assume financial risk.

In the contract the operator reserves the right to terminate the agreement if the safety regulations are violated.

24. A Semi for All Seasons

ABSTRACT

A new conceptual design for a semi-submersible that offers dynamic platform control in all six degrees of freedom as
well as a doubling of remobilization speed is presented. The six degree of freedom control will enable non-moored
station keeping and yaw orientation as well as the practical elimination of sea-induced platform heave, roll and pitch
motions.
These advantages accrue from two major departures from conventional semi-submersible design; the platform
support columns are streamlined and tapered, and the submerged hulls are more submarine shaped and equipped
with fore and aft ?wrap around? propellers whose blades are collectively as well as cyclically changeable in pitch.
Submarine model experimental data are presented in addition to an extrapolation of Naval Research and
Development Center (NSRDC) model data for a 300' X 300' platform presenting speed vs power and stability
predictions.

INTRODUCTI ON

The design of present semi submersibles is inherently limited by their support columns' reaction to sea-induced
hydrodynamic forces. The fact that the columns provide all static stability in heave, roll and pitch necessarily requires
that they have a large cross-section area and therefore react adversely to wave motions. It is obvious that these
platforms are stable with reference to the averaged sea surface else they would roll or pitch over. Unfortunately the
average sea surface is, more frequently than not, made up of mountains and valleys which, at least once or twice a
year, is described as a lI one hundred year storm ll Although the stormy North Sea is not typical of all fields currently
being worked, there are potentially productive areas in deeper waters where platform motions may slow down or stop
productive work.

In addition to the adverse induced motions attributed to the support columns, there are the penalties associated with
their hydrodynamic drag during transit and the hydrodynamic drag in the presence of a current when on station.
These effects are generally mitigated by ballasting as high as possible; however, as the submerged longitudinal
bodies approach the surface, their wave-making drag increases. Ideally, these bodies would be a ALBACORE,
THRESHER, or later submarine shape, submerged to a depth of one or more diameters with platform support
columns of zero cross-section.

In short, present platforms are adversely affected by sea conditions and have low transit speeds.

PLATFORM DEVELOPMENT

With due regard for the laws of physics, if a wish list of semi-submersible platform characteristics were prepared by
operators, it would surely contain the following:

1. Maximum stability in all sea conditions.

2. No necessity for bottom mooring.
3. High transit speed.

Dynamic positioning on station is currently successfully practiced in three degrees of freedom, yaw, surge, and sway,
through the expedient of multiple thrusters. Thus, platform orientation may be aligned either up or down seas to
minimize drag on the submerged hulls. These thrusters may also be used for transit. In high sea use, however, the
other three degrees of freedom; heave, pitch, and roll, the troublesome ones, are mitigated only by the sheer mass
and passive damping of the platform.

25. Feasibility of Deepwater Drilling In South China Sea By Applying

ABS Unit
COSL (China oilfield Services Ltd.), the biggest offshore drilling company in China, owns three semi-submersible rigs
which can operate in water depth up to 470 meters. COSL is constructing a deepwater drilling rig recently, and it will
be completed in 4-5 years. COSL needs to find out a way to modify semi submersibles to explore oilfield in water of
1,500 m during these years. COSL noticed the Artificial Buoyancy Seabed (ABS) unit, which may be matched to
semisubmersible platform to perform drilling operation in deepwater up to 1500 m. The main principle of concept is to
set a tank of buoyancy (the ABS unit) under 300m below sea surface, which is as a base of the semi-submersible rig.
The ABS unit could utilize its buoyancy force to support the weight of BOP and other facilities such as risers, and the
BOP will be set in a short distance from the sea surface. Since June 2004, COSL has carried out a series of tests to
prove the feasibility of the new concept to deepwater drilling, and acquired a lot of data on the limited conditions for
ABS unit. These data are, for example, the maximum loading forces, the maximum currents to resistance and the
window of time to operation and so on. The tests were taken from both the pool of the lab and the lake in the main
land of China, except for a model test in a pool. COSL had researched the test results for ABS unit, including a test of
ABS unit in the sea near a city of Norway in 2002, and thought ABS unit is an accepted concept to do in the
deepwater drilling. The paper describes not only the base structure, the procedure of testing about the feasibility by
COSL, and showed some preliminary conclusions about this new concept.

26. New People, New Rig; Managing Performance

Abstract

Long-term business relationships and working teams are difficult to maintain in a cyclical business where activity
levels can quickly change. Starting rigs up and building new working relationships is time consuming and can be
tedious and unproductive if not properly managed. Both informal and formal processes can be utilized to good
advantage in order to maximize safety and productivity. This paper will discuss some of the systems and processes
used by one offshore drilling contractor with their customers to focus efforts toward meeting these goals.

Introduction

In the offshore drilling industry, it is taken for granted that multi-million dollar work programs can be successfully
undertaken on short notice with minimal planning. This is accomplished, time after time, with a few hundred
personnel, from a dozen or more companies, often coming together for the first time in order to achieve a common
goal. With numerous players having various objectives, robust management systems are needed to keep all of the
balls in the air and in play.

The nature of the business is such that the most experienced crews and desired rigs will remain at work or go to work
first, often at the lowest dayrates. The least desired rigs and least experienced crews go to work last, often at
premium rates. The economic reality that drives this situation also enables drilling the most complex wells during
these times of plenty.

Dobson1 reported a correlation between crew experience and accident frequency rates in the U.K.'s North Sea. Well
complexity also affects Health, Safety, & Environmental (HS&E) performance according to Jablonowski2. Data
available for the U.S. Gulf of Mexico show that accident/injury rates rise as more rigs go to work and fall as they
stack. This relationship is shown in Appendix A with the 42% fluctuation in accident frequency rates,3 tracking the
44% fluctuation in the number of working rigs.4 As rig utilization increases, more injuries occur per well drilled and
manhour worked. Although outside of the scope of this paper, the author believes that there would be little argument
that a plot showing non-productive time, rig downtime or other measurement of operations performance, would
exhibit similar characteristics.

Much has been written and presented on ways and means to optimize safety performance and well construction,
either through a fit for purpose well plan or optimal execution of the plan. Common themes to both include maximizing
teamwork through alliances and partnerships, matching well plans with the optimum mix of technology and equipment
and maximizing returns from the learning curve. All of these have in common, the implication of collaboration through
long term relationships between the players. None of these techniques advocate throwing a team together on short
notice with little planning. This, however, is the economic and operational reality that is the rule rather than the
exception. In these "normal" situations, disaster avoidance is often high on the priority list, with optimization of safety
and drilling performance often receiving the short straw. We are often successful with this approach particularly on
"standard" wells with "standard" equipment and services, where all are treated as a commodity. This approach is not
always successful when the operational climate changes and/or the wells are more complex and challenging.

The working climate often can not be idealized, but it can be managed. An overview of one management system that
targets both safety and operational performance is provided here, along with three case histories discussing lessons
learned in meeting contractor/operator jointly defined objectives.

Management Systems
In the early 1990's, a drilling contractor created the Global Excellence Management System (GEMS) a Health, Safety,
Environmental & Quality (HSEQ) system containing the practical procedures to monitor, control and continually
improve performance.

27. Dayrates Affect Rig Safety and Training

IADC Members *SPE Member

Abstract

This paper presents the safety/ training conditions that exist in a decade where there are "no profit" dayrates. Safety
and training programs have been condensed because programs have been condensed because of limited funds for
these functions, however, the continued effort of the drilling contractor to improve safety has not decreased.

For the past fifteen years, the drilling contractors have invested billions of dollars on effective training and safety
programs for employees. Reduced revenues of the last 5 years have resulted in curtailment of full time safety/training
personnel, however the programs that are still active afford safe operations. Safety and training continue to be a
major emphasis of the oil company (Operator) and of the drilling contractor, and the contractor's field supervisors
historically were trained to effectively continue safety and training programs. However, due to short term contracts
and low dayrates, attrition is taking its toll.

The contractor has major concerns about the people manning his operations. The experience level has dropped. The
employee no longer has a feel for future employment and drugs/alcohol abuse have complicated the situation.

The Operators have not changed their requirements for safety and in many cases have tied safety records with the
awarding of future contracts to get an adequate effort for safety by all contractors.

In the future, to insure adequate safety and training, the Operator must monetarily compensate the contractor who
does have good safety and training programs. The Operator company executive who today has a very profitable
operation must be realistic and support the contractor on safety matters. The contractor's field supervisor must also
be realistic and he must assume more responsibility to think safety and train his crews to be continually-minded of
safety.

Everyone must bear the cost of safety - from the corporation executives to rig crew employees. The drilling contractor
is caught in the middle during this decade of hard times.

The industry cannot have the Ostrich Syndrome and just want safety.

28. Increased Casing Running Efficiency On Offshore Rigs

Abstract

The drilling industry continually seeks enhanced technologies and processes that reduce time spent drilling and
completing a well while maintaining well bore integrity, particularly with the installation of casing and tubing and the
handling of tubulars in general. Over the years, major focus has been placed on the handling of tubulars and efforts
to handle most preparatory functions offline rather than on the rig itself, thus generating greater efficiency and
improving health, safety and environmental (HSE) conditions.

Many newly constructed rigs are equipped with auxiliary pipe makeup stations and racking systems for offline
makeup and racking and installation of casing and tubing in stands. As a result, run times have improved at well
centers by as much as 100% while reducing risk exposure to personnel. But the vast majority of existing rigs is not
equipped to handle pre-made stands of casing and tubing and therefore is unable to take full advantage of these
potential efficiency gains. One option for enhancing rigs without offline makeup and racking capability is to prepare
and pre-assemble the casing or tubing into stands at a pipe handling yard and subsequently ship them to the rig to be
picked up and run as stands at well centers on the critical path.

In this paper the authors will review the use of tubular management facilities for offline preparation of tubing and
casing. We also assess the savings potential associated with moving makeup and breakdown operations from the
drilling rig critical path. We will document recent projects in Australia, Asia and the Gulf of Mexico in which the
tubular running service company improved efficiency by managing logistics, preparation and preassembly of tubular
stands, safe installation and shipment to the operational rig.

Introduction

The drilling and completing of wells is a time consuming process. Associated costs continue to escalate as wells
become ever more complex and far reaching. One of the largest contributors to well costs is time spent in the
handling of tubulars-- be it casing, tubing or drillpipe. Efforts to improve the efficiency of these operations have been
studied considerably. To promote cost efficiency, the industry continues to research technologies and operational
processes that can reduce the overall time it takes to drill and complete a well. One of the earliest improvements was
the introduction of specialty service company operations personnel. These staff members ran casing and tubing,
provided fit-for-purpose handling equipment and trained additional personnel in time management and quality
management of pipe strings.