LDD strengthens portfolio with services offshore Gabon

LDD, an Acteon company, has enhanced its global footprint by installing drilled and grouted piles as part of the Etame Marin block field expansion programme, offshore Gabon, West Africa.

VAALCO Gabon (Etame) Inc. is the operator of the Etame Marin block. LDD will deliver a specialist foundation installation programme, including drilling, grouting, lifting and handling. The fieldwork phase for the LDD operation commenced in April 2014.

For the jacket installation, LDD will work closely with EMAS AMC to install four 48-in.-outside-diameter piles for each jacket. Each pile will be 140 m in length, including a penetration of approximately 50 m below the mudline. The piles will be inserted into sockets drilled below the pile at each leg using 54-in.-diameter underreaming drill bits.

LDD will use its LD2500 drill and associated downhole equipment and provide a range of grouting equipment, including grout stingers and reusable pile bungs. LM Handling will carry out the lifting and handling aspect of the project. LDD’s involvement in fieldwork will last approximately 30 days.

Comments

Lee Edwards, LDD projects manager, commented: “The contract was awarded on the basis of LDD’s track record, including the successful completion of drilling and grouting work on the Ebouri platform for VAALCO Gabon (Etame) Inc. in 2008. The results of our work on the Etame Marin block expansion programme will further raise awareness of our expertise in jacket installation and underline our strong market position as a jacket installation services specialist.”

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.oilfieldtechnology.com/drilling-and-production/23052014/ldd_services_offshore_gabon_765/