Casing Running Mechanization on the Semi-Submersible; Maersk Discoverer

Abstract

One of the most serious red-zone hazards on a rig's drill floor is in casing running operations. Manually operated power tong hanging on a rig floor tugger required up to six people to be present in the red zone of the drill floor. In this respect, it was decided to evaluate the latest technological advancements, and work on an improved solution to casing running operations. The challenge on the Maersk Discoverer is the main well center roughneck design, which has historically prevented the team from using an existing mechanized solution from the market. The Casing Running mechanization project was piloted on the Maersk Discoverer rig, in order to mechanize the casing and tubing running operations. Weatherford has specifically designed a bespoke adaptor that fits the Column Mounted Roughneck (CMR) on the main well center allowing for a remotely operated casing running operation. The adopted design overcomes the challenge of tight space between the tong and the well center which prevented the mechanized solution in the past. Weatherford casing and tubing tongs are remotely operated through Weatherford's mechanized control system. This Pilot approach has been installed and tried with multiple casing and tubing sizes. This project brought remarkable results impacting the safety and the performance of our operations through two outcomes. Zero people in the red zone on one hand and on the other hand, improving efficiency of handling the tongs in a controlled manner avoiding excessive and uncontrolled movement of these heavy loads. Consequently, hands-free casing running operations were successfully implemented!