BJ Services Tubular Services line has been awarded a contract to provide casing and tubing running services in the northern North Sea by Petrofac Energy Development Ltd.

Services will be completed in the Don Southwest (Don SW) and West Don fields. The development is located approximately 150 km northeast of the Shetland Islands and 12 km north of the Thistle Field in water depths of approximately 152 m (500 ft).

BJ Services will work from the John Shaw semisubmersible drilling rig on the seven-well drilling program, with plans to begin operations this month. The drilling program is scheduled for completion at the end of 2009. All related services are being provided by dedicated personnel based at the Tubular Services global headquarters in Aberdeen, Scotland.

To ensure that the casing and tubing running operation is carried out effectively, BJ Services will use a fully mechanised running system that includes its Leadhand™ tong manipulating technology with hydraulic casing and backup tongs. In addition, BJ plans to install its Derrickman system on the drilling rig. This remotely-operated mechanical arm makes it possible to manoeuvre tubulars and drillpipe into a vertical position without a crew member acting as a traditional stabber.

Tags: BJ Services