ABERDEEN, February 6, 2003, Weatherford International Ltd. (NYSE:WFT) today announced its Drilling and Intervention Services (DIS) division has received an order from BP to install the North Sea's first All in One TorkWinder (TM) System on the ULA platform, in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea.
Doug Sedge, DIS Region Vice President for Europe, West Africa and CIS said, " Weatherford is an industry leader in rig mechanisation, and our Well Installation Services team are continually developing new systems that make rig operations safer and more efficient. Our goal is to promote a safer working environment, and help our customers achieve greater productivity. "
" The All in One TorkWinder (TM) System that Weatherford Norge AS is supplying to BP reduces rig time and allows for greater control over rig components, using a fully remote operated machine for make up of all casing, tubing and drillpipe, including special tools and assemblies. Previous manually operated functions like cleaning, stabbing, doping, and the make up of stabilisers and drill bits are incorporated in the system, in line with the new requirements from the NPD (Norwegian Petroleum Department) for a fully remote operated system."
The Norwegian sector has been in the forefront of mechanisation, and Weatherford launched its first equipment in Norway as early as 1994. Mechanisation is now a key issue for the oil and gas industry, and Weatherford's innovative modular approach has worldwide applications.
In July 2002 DIS received recognition from the International Association of Drilling Contractors for its improvements to safety during cementation operations offshore. DIS designed a system for remotely operating a sub surface top drive cement head from the rig floor, substantially reducing manriding operations. Weatherford is one of the largest global providers of innovative mechanical solutions, technology and services to the drilling and production sectors of the oil and gas industry. Weatherford operates in over 100 countries and employs approximately 15,000 people worldwide. (www.weatherford.com)
ENDS
For further information contact:
Aberdeen, Liz Paddon 44 (0) 1224 225 269
Houston, Christine McGee 1 713 693 4362