The two drilling modules - the Modular Drilling Support Module (MDSM) and the Drilling Equipment Set (DES) were fabricated on the ground separately from the topsides deck before commencing the “Jack and Skid” operation. The MDSM module weighs 2,350 tonnes measuring 43m long, 20m wide and 20m high, whilst the DES module weighs 2,400 tonnes and is 32m long, 22m wide and 80m high. They were built at the fabrication yard in Bibi-Heybat.
Neal Phillips, project general manager for the ACE project, said: “This was a complex operation and a first for bp in the Caspian. During the operation self-propelled modular trailers were installed underneath the modules to transport them to the main jacking position adjacent to the topsides deck. The modules were then jacked up by incrementally installing steel cassettes to reach the final height of around 27 metres. Hydraulic rams were used to skid the modules onto the topsides deck before set-down at their final locations. We are proud to have achieved this unique milestone safely and ahead of schedule. It allowed us to commence commissioning at grade ahead of the integration of the module.”
“The lifting and successful integration of the two drilling facilities on the ACE topsides deck marks a major milestone towards achieving the overall completion of the ACE project. Completion of this activity is the result of nearly four years of engineering and fabrication work in close collaboration with a group of ACE project contractors including Azfen, NOV, SOCAR-KBR and Mammoet. I would like to thank all people who have contributed to this remarkable achievement,” said Cathal Kelly, bp’s vice president, projects, for the Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye region, Russia, Egypt and Oman.
Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, bp’s vice president for the Caspian region, communications and external affairs, said: “We are on track to bring our next ACG platform – ACE, online in support of our efforts to effectively manage production from ACG. In 2017, we extended the ACG contract till mid-century and as Azerbaijan’s long term energy partner, we have a commitment to continue operating the ACG field safely, efficiently and reliably.
“We have been in Azerbaijan for 30 years and at least over the next three decades we will be here working together with the government, SOCAR and our co-venturers to unlock the long-term development potential of ACG through new investments, new technologies and new joint efforts to maximise recovery.”
The overall ACE construction and commissioning activities are currently at peak with around 75% of the project completed and with about 5,000 people across Baku, Europe and the UK, with the majority of them being Azerbaijani nationals.
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