Fairstar and GSI signed LOI for new 50,000dwt semi-submersible vessel

China's Guangzhou Shipyard International has inked a letter of intent (LOI) with Dutch firm Fairstar Heavy Transport to build a 50,000-dwt semi-submersible heavylift carrier.
[Read More]
Source: Asiasis

Posted on 5/31/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Hyundai wins $1.1 bln drillship order from Rowan

Hyundai Heavy Industries , the world's largest shipbuilder, has won an $1.1 billion order to build two drillships for drilling contractor Rowan Companies Inc , Hyundai said on Wednesday.
[Read More]
Source: Reuters

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Combi Lift handles anchor handling tug supply vessels

Two anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels are currently being discharged in Lagos, Nigeria from Combi Lift's multipurpose vessel, Combi Lift IV, having been safely transported from Singapore.
[Read More]
Source: Heavy Lift

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Aker Solutions wins drilling equipment contracts

Aker Solutions has won two contracts to supply complete drilling equipment packages for two new deepwater drilling units that are being built by Cosco, the Chinese shipbuilding company.

The combined value of the contracts is about $195 million, and includes options for a further two units.

"These contracts underline our attractive offering in the deepwater drilling market. Current tender activity is high, and we are pleased to see that our position in the deepwater market is competitive," says Thor Arne Håverstad, executive vice president and head of Aker Solutions' drilling technologies business.

The equipment will be delivered to both units during 2012 and 2013.

Aker Solutions offers complete drilling equipment packages, including project management, conceptual design, detailed engineering and procurement. We provide the full range of topside drilling equipment and systems, and worldwide customer support through our global drilling lifecycle services organisation.
Source: Aker Solutions

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Aker Solutions to supply three subsea production control umbilicals for Chevron

Aker Solutions has been selected to supply three subsea production control umbilicals for the Chevron operated Jack & St. Malo field developments in the Gulf of Mexico. Contract value is undisclosed.

The production control umbilicals will provide hydraulic, electrical and fiber optic service to the Jack and St. Malo subsea fields. Scope of work includes three electro-hydraulic steel tube production umbilicals totalling 40 miles (65 kilometres). Engineering, project management, and manufacturing will take place at Aker Solutions' state-of-the-art umbilical facility in Mobile, Alabama. The three umbilicals will be used at Chevron's Jack & St. Malo field, located in the Walker Ridge Area of the Gulf of Mexico in water depths of approximately 7,000 feet (2,100 metres).
"Aker Solutions is excited to see Chevron come back to us with a repeat order and is proud to contribute to this very important project for Chevron and for the Gulf of Mexico region," said Erik Wiik, President - Subsea North America, Aker Solutions.

Opened in 2003, Aker Solutions' umbilical manufacturing facility in Mobile is strategically located to serve the Gulf of Mexico and global markets. The facility, with its high capacity horizontal cabler, is specially designed to meet the challenges of demanding deepwater applications.

Aker Solutions is the market leader within steel tube umbilicals. This position has been backed by a strong focus on health, safety and the environment (HSE) which has been exemplified through reaching an important milestone of five years without a lost time injury (LTI) at both production sites in Moss, Norway, and in Mobile, Alabama.

Over the past 15 years Aker Solutions has delivered more than 400 umbilicals to some of the world's most challenging fields, from harsh environment to ultra-deep, high-pressure water conditions.

Aker Solutions' contract party is Aker Subsea Inc.
Source: Aker Solutions

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Cosco Kang Sheng Kou takes Jack-up rig to Alaska

The Cosco Kang Sheng Kou arrived on May 27, on the way to Alaska, and left on May 29 after spending the weekend in the Prince Rupert Harbour. According to Michael Gurney, the manager of corporate communications with the Prince Rupert Port Authority, the vessel was diverted to Vancouver after it left the harbour yesterday.
[Read More]
Source: Muskeg News

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McDermott Wins Pipeline Installation Project in Gulf of Mexico

McDermott International, Inc. (NYSE:MDR) ("McDermott"), announced today that one of its subsidiaries was awarded a contract by PEMEX Exploración y Producción for procurement, construction and installation of three oil and gas pipelines ranging from 8 to 20 inches in diameter, in Mexico's Bay of Campeche. The contract is valued at more than US$50 million and will be included in McDermott's second quarter backlog for 2011.

"We are pleased to be working again for PEMEX in the Gulf of Mexico. Our installation solution for this project will be supported by our subsea engineering design group in Houston and fabrication work from our construction yard in Altamira, Mexico," said Stephen M. Johnson, McDermott's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.

Pipeline installation engineering is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2011, with subsequent fabrication of the risers, clamps and guards, subsea tie-in assembly and additional platform piping and structural items from Altamira. McDermott's DB16 will perform the installation work, with completion expected by the end of the year.

DB16 is outfitted with a customized Automatic Welding System that offers high weld production rates and production flexibility. The vessel and its crew are recognized for producing repeatable high-quality welds with exceptional mechanical properties. Also impressive is the vessel's underwater block, capable of lifting large amounts of tonnage into deepwater.

The field development in the Gulf of Mexico sits in approximately 170 feet of water. The pipelines will run from the Kambesah Wells Recoverer Structure to the Kutz TA platform and the Ixtoc-A platform.

More about DB16

DB16 is a dynamically positioned, shallow and deepwater combination barge with the flexibility of installing structures or S-Laying pipe up to 48-inch in diameter. The vessel is equipped with three 100 kip tension machines and five pipelay welding stations, an abandonment and recovery hoist for laying down pipelines in deep water. The DB16's 200-foot long deep water truss stinger with an A-Frame and an underwater block enables it to lower heavy structures up to 62 tons into water 10,000 feet deep, and lift up to 94.5 tons in water depths of 6,000 feet.

More about Altamira Fabrication Facility

Altamira offers significant advantages for McDermott's customers such as cost efficiency and space, and with a new enclosed assembly building nearing completion; this facility will offer the largest under cover assembly bays of any of McDermott's competitors on the Gulf Coast.

Located in the Port of Altamira, Mexico, the McDermott fabrication facility is one hour's flight time from Houston, Texas and 30 minutes flight time from Brownsville, Texas. Strategically and competitively positioned for turnkey offshore construction of modules, hulls and substructures, as well as rig repair and upgrade services, this expansive yard has direct, unrestricted access to open sea and an extensive 40-foot deep quayside (47.5-feet expected September 2011).

Altamira's equipment and infrastructure, material flow and management are designed for optimum performance, delivering safe, efficient, cost-effective offshore construction and rig repair and upgrade solutions.

This yard caters to customers throughout the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic region.

ABOUT McDERMOTT

McDermott is a leading engineering, procurement, construction and installation ("EPCI") company focused on executing complex offshore oil and gas projects worldwide. Providing fully integrated EPCI services for upstream field developments, the Company delivers fixed and floating production facilities, pipelines and subsea systems from concept to commissioning. McDermott's customers include national and major energy companies. Operating in more than 20 countries across the Atlantic, Middle East and Asia Pacific, the Company's integrated resources include more than 15,000 employees and a diversified fleet of marine vessels, fabrication facilities and engineering offices. McDermott has served the energy industry since 1923.
Source: McDERMOTT

Posted on 5/31/2011 / 1 comments / Read More

Qatar signs deal for two major ports in Egypt

Qatar said on Sunday that it had signed an agreement with Egypt to establish two new ports with the potential to create more than a million jobs.
[Read More]
Source: Arabian Business

Posted on 5/31/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Ensco plc Completes Acquisition of Pride International

Ensco plc (NYSE: ESV) announced the completion of its acquisition of Pride International, Inc. (NYSE: PDE) after both companies received overwhelming shareholder approvals at special meetings held earlier today. The combination establishes Ensco as the world’s second largest offshore drilling company and the clear leader in customer satisfaction.

Under the terms of the agreement, with exceptions for certain UK residents and dissenting stockholders, Pride International stockholders are receiving 0.4778 newly-issued shares of Ensco plus $15.60 in cash for each share of Pride International common stock. The shares of Ensco will continue to be listed and traded as American Depositary Shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol, “ESV.” Effective as of the close of trading today, Pride International common stock will cease trading.

Chairman and CEO Dan Rabun said, “Today is an important milestone in Ensco’s history. Through this transaction, we have expanded our deepwater fleet with drillship assets, and now have a substantial presence in Brazil and West Africa – both strategic, high-growth markets. In addition, we have gained major new customers from around the world.”

Ensco’s expanded rig fleet is made up of seven ultra-deepwater drillships, 13 dynamically positioned semisubmersibles, seven moored semisubmersibles and 49 premium jackups. The ultra-deepwater fleet is the newest in the industry and the active premium jackup fleet is the largest of any driller. Several technologically-advanced drillships, semisubmersibles and ultra-premium harsh environment jackups are under construction as part of Ensco’s ongoing strategy to continually high-grade the fleet.

Mr. Rabun added, “We are the industry leader in customer satisfaction having collectively earned the top ranking in 14 of 16 separate categories in EnergyPoint’s recent survey of customers in the global oilfield. This recognition, coupled with our enhanced rig fleet and expertise, will enable us to further capitalize on growth opportunities worldwide.”

As contemplated under the merger agreement, David A.B. Brown and Francis S. Kalman have joined Ensco’s Board of Directors effective today. Both are former directors of Pride International. Recently, Paul E. Rowsey III was appointed by Ensco’s Board of Directors as the Lead Director.

As previously announced, Mr. Rabun will continue as Chairman, President and CEO of Ensco and James W. Swent will continue as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Others named to the executive management team include:

• William S. Chadwick, Jr. – Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
• J. Mark Burns – Senior Vice President, Western Hemisphere
• P. Carey Lowe – Senior Vice President, Eastern Hemisphere
• John Knowlton – Senior Vice President, Technical
• Kevin C. Robert – Senior Vice President, Marketing

The Company will be managed through five regional business units:

• North & South America (excluding Brazil)
• Brazil
• Europe & Mediterranean
• Middle East & Africa
• Asia & Pacific Rim

The Company’s second quarter 2011 earnings conference call is scheduled for Tuesday, 9 August 2011. Dial-in details will be provided in the second quarter 2011 earnings press release that will precede the conference call. As a result of the merger and the integration of the businesses of the two companies, business segment disclosure will be revised to be based on asset type: deepwater, midwater and jackups.

Source: Ensco plc

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Seadrill secures new jack-up contract in Thailand

Seadrill has been awarded a new contract by PTTEP in Thailand for the jack-up rig West Leda. The assignment is for a firm period of nine months and with an option to extend for a further six months. The contract value for the firm period is approximately US$35 million. Commencement of the operations under the new contract is scheduled for late second quarter 2011, in direct continuation of the rig's existing contract.

Alf C Thorkildsen, Chief Executive Officer in Seadrill Management AS, says, "We are pleased to secure a new contract for one of our jack-ups in the South East Asia region. We consider this as an excellent opportunity to further strengthening our relationship with PTTEP, one of our key customers. Representing a total contract value of US$35 million, this assignment improves the earnings visibility for our jack-ups."
Source: Seadrill

Posted on 5/31/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

All SM Korean shipbuilders feared to fall extinct

Just following the shipping crisis which started in the second half of 2008, the shipbuilding crisis has already lasted over two and half years, reaching the stage that all traditional

small and medium-sized (SM) Korean shipbuilders who have played an important part of Korean shipbuilding industries for the past 20 years may fall to extinction in future, some argue.
[Read More]
Source: Shipping Online

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SeaBird Works on Plan for Second OBN Vessel

SeaBird Exploration PLC ("SeaBird" or "SBX") has over the last few months worked with a Norwegian shipyard to develop and plan the construction of a second vessel in addition to the Hugin Explorer for deploying, retrieving and servicing Ocean Bottom Nodes (OBN).

Through a mutual understanding between the yard and SeaBird, a condition for delivering the vessel in Q2/Q3 2012 was that a firm Shipbuilding contract was to be signed within May 2011. SeaBird is still developing its plans for a second OBN crew.

However, at present it is not considered good timing to introduce further commitments on the company with a firm construction contract for a second node vessel.

SeaBird is the front runner in developing the OBN technology, and has successfully completed six surveys for four super oil-majors over the past two years. SeaBird continues to see a growing interest in this technology, and expects more continuity in future surveys with potential for longer term contracts. SeaBird will revert to considerations of expanding capacity in due time.
Source: SeaBird

Posted on 5/31/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

More Chinese shipbuilders to see losses this year

More shipbuilders in China may see losses this year, because of rising labor and raw material costs and effect of the changes in foreign exchange rates, according to the latest report released by the China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry.
[Read More]
Source: China Knowledge

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Hyundai Heavy wins $600 mln LNG ship order from Greece

South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries Co Ltd said it won an order worth $600 million to build up to three LNG carriers for Greece's Dynagas Ltd.
[Read More]
Source: Reuters

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Petrobras signs contracts for the chartering of six Panamax vessels

This week, Petrobras signed with Hidrovia South American Logistics S.A., in a ceremony held at the Company’s main office, in Rio de Janeiro, the six remaining contracts for the EBN2 Program (Brazilian Shipping Companies). The hiring is for the chartering of six Panamax-class vessels, of 63,500 dwt each.

Five will transport light products (such as gasoline and diesel), and one dark products (oil, for example).

Hidrovia South American Logistics SA belongs to the NSAL group (Navios South American Logistics Inc.), an association between NAVIOS (Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.) and Argentine group Horamar.

The EBN involves chartering vessels built by Brazilian companies in shipyards located in Brazil for fifteen-year terms. It also requires that the vessel be registered under the Brazilian flag for the duration of the contract. There were two phases: EBN1 and EBN2. Nineteen vessels were chartered in the first, and 20 in the second.

The program is part of a series of Petrobras initiatives designed to boost shipbuilding in Brazil, and the 39 vessels will be built in Brazilian shipyards in the period ranging from 2011 to 2017.

Under this initiative, Petrobras helps revitalize of the rigger industry in Brazil, bringing domestic alternatives to meet the demand for coastal transportation, a strategic activity that not only accounts for 80% of Petrobras’ shipping operations, but also reduces exposure to international freight market volatility.

The EBN is aligned with Petrobras’ guideline to invest and act in partnership with domestic businesses to develop the country. It is estimated that the program will help create about 30,000 direct and indirect jobs during vessel construction and in excess of 2,000 permanent jobs over the life of the ships.

The expectation, from the standpoint of the broader shipping industry in Brazil, is the creation of a significant community of owners of bulk liquid vessels sailing under the Brazilian flag, initially focusing on coastal sailing and, in the future, enabling the riggers also to operate in the long-haul international routes that are connected to the Brazilian market.
Source: Petrobras

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Rudder force detection for DP Operation launched

The result of an 18 month joint development project between Kongsberg Maritime and Becker Marine Systems has come to fruition, with the launch of KBIMS; a sophisticated new support tool designed to enable more efficient use of propellers and rudders during Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations. A first pilot installation has already been agreed for KBIMS, with a new Volstad offshore construction vessel, which is under construction at Fosen.

There are several advantages to using main propeller and rudder instead of azimuth thrusters during DP operations. For instance, there is no limitation of installed power and response times may be improved, therefore improving station keeping performance overall. However, with conventional rudder-propeller arrangements these benefits, which also include the possibility to reduce vessel emissions, are not always available, so Kongsberg Maritime and Becker Marine Systems set about developing KBIMS in order to improve performance for DP operations.

"KBIMS is able to enhance DP operations through several new technical innovations, made possible through Becker's in-depth expertise in rudders and our own DP systems experience," explains Nils Albert Jennssen, VP Business Development, Kongsberg Maritime. "The challenge was to find a more direct indicator of maneuvering performance than the vessel's motion reaction detected by GPS or gyros. It clearly turned out that the closest value to describe performance was the rudder force itself, so this is what KBIMS measures."

Once KBIMS is integrated with a Kongsberg Maritime K-Pos DP system, it can learn the characteristics of the rudder so the correct combination of rudder angle and propeller pitch/rpm is used. Exact measurements of the actual rudder force secures improved station keeping performance and more precise rudder control will reduce wear and tear of steering gear, rudder stock and bearings, so less downtime and maintenance costs are possible. Using KBIMS also fulfills regulatory requirements on DP and propulsion systems for long haul offshore operations.

In addition to the launch of the sophisticated new KBIMS tool, the two companies have also signed a new cooperation agreement to continue utilising their strengths within high performance rudder systems and DP systems respectively to enhance DP capabilities.

Source: Kongsberg

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FLEX LNG Starts FEED for FLNG Project in Papua New Guinea

FLEX LNG LTD (FLEX LNG) Announces Start of Field Specific Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) for Floating Liquefaction (FLNG) Project in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Samsung Heavy Industries will carry out the FEED work for the hull portion of the FLNG vessel, whilst a WorleyParsons lead JV together with Kanfa Aragon will carry out the FEED work for the topsides. Samsung Heavy Industries will remain overall responsible for the overall design, engineering, construction and commissioning of the FLNG vessel. FEED is scheduled to be completed in time for the project to reach a Final Investment Decision (FID) before the end of 2011. Commencement of operations in PNG is targeted for 2014.
FLEX LNG has already completed a generic FEED in 2009 and the field specific FEED will tailor the vessel for the PNG project where the FLNG vessel is expected to be moored alongside a jetty and have a nominal production capacity of close to 2 million tons of LNG per annum and to process an estimated 2.25 trillion cubic feet of gas over a firm 25-year period.
Commenting on the commencement of FEED, Chief Executive Officer of FLEX LNG Management Ltd, Philip Fjeld stated:
“We are very pleased with the selection of a world-class topside engineering contractor. Completing field specific FEED is essential to reaching FID later in 2011 and we are happy that FEED has started according to the schedule that was executed in April 2011.
The FLNG project in PNG is a game-changing development for FLEX LNG and planning to complete FEED in approximately 6 months is only being made possible as a result of the comprehensive generic FEED previously completed by FLEX LNG. We have received excellent feedback from the LNG industry following the announcement of the project 6 weeks ago and the level of intensity in the interest from LNG offtakers as well as potential project partners has positively surprised us.
We are looking forward to continuing to work with our partners to put final documentation in place to achieve FID within 2011 and for FLEX LNG to play a role in changing oil and gas history by bringing what is likely to become the first ever floating LNG production facility into operation in 2014.”
Source: FLEX LNG

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Technip Samsung to start detailed design and construction of Shell’s FLNG facility

Shell Development (Australia) Pty Ltd (Shell) has given notice today to a Technip Samsung Consortium (TSC) to proceed with the construction of the first floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility in the world. TSC will provide engineering, procurement, construction and installation for the FLNG facility Shell will deploy at its Prelude gas field off the northwest coast of Australia. 

Moored far out at sea, some 200 kilometres from the nearest land, the Prelude FLNG facility will produce gas from offshore fields and liquefy it onboard by cooling.  Detailed design of the innovative facility will be undertaken by TSC at Technip’s operating centers in Paris, France, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and it will be built at the Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) shipyard in Geoje, Korea, where the Notice to Proceed signing ceremony took place. 

Mr Thierry Pilenko, Chairman and CEO of Technip, commented: "Once again Technip is a key partner of a visionary customer pushing back together the limits of technology. This great project is a real breakthrough for the energy industry and a true revolution for offshore natural gas developments. Technip is extremely pleased and proud to bring all the expertise, know-how and skills of its three business segments -Subsea, Offshore and Onshore- all of which will be instrumental in the success of Prelude FLNG. Within our long term relationship with Shell and Samsung Heavy Industries, we hope that this project will be the first of many."

Mr In-sik Roh, CEO, President and Director at Samsung Heavy Industries, says:  "We are very excited to participate in the Prelude FLNG project, which will be the world's first floating LNG production facility. Samsung believes in the strength of the partnership with Shell and Technip, which will allow us to complete this project successfully. We are confident that this project will help us solidify our position as a clear leader in FLNG construction and development."

Dr. Matthias Bichsel, Projects and Technology director of Shell, added:  "We are tremendously pleased to move ahead with the Prelude Floating LNG project. In the development of the FLNG concept, Shell’s FLNG team has drawn on five decades of expertise in the areas of LNG technology, LNG shipping and engineering of offshore floating oil and gas installations. Our innovative mindset, integrated approach to technology development and mega project delivery expertise allowed us to distil these decades of experience into the development of what will be the largest offshore floating facility on earth."

"The Technip Samsung Consortium is essential to the success of the Prelude FLNG project," Matthias Bichsel continued.  "We have longstanding relationships with Technip and SHI, with both companies providing expertise to numerous projects world-wide.  The Technip Samsung Consortium combines the strengths of each company to enable the delivery of an integrated FLNG facility." 

The Shell Prelude FLNG facility will be the largest floating offshore facility in the world, with 488 meters from bow to stern - longer than four soccer fields laid end to end.  When fully loaded, it will weigh around 600,000 tonnes - roughly six times as much as the largest aircraft carrier. Some 260,000 tonnes of that weight will consist of steel - around five times the amount of steel used to build the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Floating LNG is a revolutionary innovation that will allow the production, liquefaction, storage and transfer of LNG at sea, helping to open up new offshore natural gas fields that are currently too costly or difficult to develop.
Source: Technip

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Rolls-Royce Bidding for $2.5 Billion Petrobras Deal, FT Reports

Rolls-Royce Group Plc (RR/) is bidding on a $2.5 billion contract to build turbine engines for Petroleo Brasileiro SA (PETR4) as part of a plan to expand in Latin America, the Financial Times reported.
[Read More]
Source: Bloomberg

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Aker Solutions wins drilling equipment contracts

Aker Solutions has won two contracts to supply complete drilling equipment packages for two new deepwater drilling units that are being built by Cosco, the Chinese shipbuilding company.

The combined value of the contracts is about $195 million, and includes options for a further two units.

"These contracts underline our attractive offering in the deepwater drilling market. Current tender activity is high, and we are pleased to see that our position in the deepwater market is competitive," says Thor Arne Håverstad, executive vice president and head of Aker Solutions' drilling technologies business.

The equipment will be delivered to both units during 2012 and 2013.

Aker Solutions offers complete drilling equipment packages, including project management, conceptual design, detailed engineering and procurement. We provide the full range of topside drilling equipment and systems, and worldwide customer support through our global drilling lifecycle services organisation.
Source: Aker Solutions

Posted on 5/30/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

China on its way to become a shipbuilding superpower

Shanghai: If measured by the number of ships produced and the number of vessel orders received, China is the world’s leading shipbuilder. However, in order to become a real superpower in the shipbuilding industry China still needs some more time, so being said by a senior industry official.

[Read More] 
Source: Marine China News

Posted on 5/27/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Gazprom and E.ON discuss joint projects

Zurich (Switzerland) hosted today a working meeting of Alexey Miller, Chairman of the Gazprom Management Committee, Dr. Johannes Teyssen, Chairman of the E.ON AG Management Board and Klaus Schaefer, Chairman of the E.ON Ruhrgas AG Management Board.

The meeting participants considered the current status and development prospects for the Russian-German cooperation in the energy sector.

In particular, the parties addressed the progress with the Nord Stream gas pipeline construction, pointed out the successful cooperation within Severneftegazprom and paid attention to the issues concerning Russian gas supplies to Germany. In addition, Alexey Miller,Johannes Teyssen and Klaus Schaefer discussed execution of new large-scale infrastructure projects.

Background

E.ON AG is Europe's largest investor-owned electric power and gas company. Since February 2003 E.ON Ruhrgas AG (before July 1, 2004 Ruhrgas AG) has been a subsidiary of E.ON AG and is responsible for the group's gas business in Europe, including natural gas production, marketing, transportation and storage.
On October 2, 2008 Gazprom and E.ON AG signed the Agreement on joint participation in the Yuzhno-Russkoye oil and gas field development project, in June 2009 – the agreement on asset swap in natural gas production and marketing.
Pursuant to the agreement, Gazprom received a 49 per cent stake in Gerosgaz, a 2.93 per cent stake holder in the Company. As a result of the deal, Gazprom received the full property rights to this stake from E.ON Ruhrgas. In its turn, E.ON received 25 per cent of Severneftegazprom shares (thus bringing its stake to 25 per cent less three ordinary registered shares and three preferred non-voting shares).
E.ON Ruhrgas AG also partners Gazprom in the Nord Stream gas pipeline construction.
Source: Gazprom

Posted on 5/27/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Statoil: First fast - track on track

The Visund South seabed template at Grenland Group’s yard in Tønsberg last week. (Photo: David Burke)

Statoil’s first fast-track –project – Visund South – is moving ahead as planned. The seabed template has commenced its journey out to the field located south of Gullfaks in the North Sea.


“We submitted the plan for development and operation of Visund South in January. Now, four months later, we’ve built the first seabed template for the first fast-track project. We’ve come a long way towards cutting the time from discovery to production in half,” says Kjetel Digre, who is responsible for project implementation in Technology, Projects & Drilling.

Kjetel Digre, responsible for project implementation in Technology, Projects & Drilling

The Visund South seabed template was placed on a barge at Grenland Group’s yard in Tønsberg last week. It will be installed on the field between the Gullfaks C and Visund platforms in June.

Visund South is expected to come on stream in 2012.

The template is the first to have been built from a standard catalogue for subsea equipment.

This will form the basis for the continuing development and use of the standard catalogue in the fast-track portfolio. 

“We’ve been working closely with the supplier industry to develop standard equipment for this part of our field development portfolio. This means that we can start to build equipment more quickly and develop smaller finds more efficiently,” says Halfdan Knudsen, who heads up the fast-track portfolio on the NCS.

Halfdan Knudsen, heads up the fast-track portfolio on the NCS

It has taken less than a year to build the Visund South structure from the signing of the contract for subsea equipment with FMC.

Subsea 7 will carry out the actual installation on the seabed.

Visund South field installation will take place at the same time as that on the Marulk development, which  Statoil is carrying out on behalf of operator Eni. This will mean increased efficiency and cost savings for both projects.

Statoil’s high health, safety and environment (HSE) standards are fully integrated at all fast-track project development stages.

“HSE integration at all fast-track development stages is crucial to our success. I believe that all of our efforts to standardise and industrialise field developments through the fast-track process will bring us a predictability that will impact safety in a positive way,” says Digre.

Source: Statoil

Posted on 5/27/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Hawkes Ocean Technologies Makes Underwater Airplanes

The deep sea, not space, is the latest frontier for achieving new records of exploration, and Hawkes Ocean Technologies (Hawkes) is leading the way with its series of winged submersibles that fly through the water, operating much like underwater aircraft. For its innovative research vehicles, Hawkes has been named May Inventor of the Month by Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK).

With their unique ability for underwater flight and unprecedented range, speed and maneuverability, Hawkes DeepFlight submersibles make it easier and more cost effective to explore parts of the ocean that were previously out of reach — offering the potential to significantly expand scientific knowledge of the ocean that covers nearly three-fourths of the Earth’s surface. In fact, Hawkes is currently completing DeepFlight Challenger, the world’s deepest submersible that will be used by the Virgin Oceanic Five Dives project to venture to the bottom of the world’s oceans. Additionally, Hawkes is furthering the development of its DeepFlight winged submersibles and is working on its fifth generation DeepFlight vehicle.

Digital Prototyping Enables Team to Develop New Ideas

“It is impossible to overstate the importance that Autodesk Inventor software has played in our operations,” said Graham Hawkes, founder and chief engineer of Hawkes. “The ability to design in 3D doesn’t just make us more efficient at realizing our ideas — it enables us to come up with entirely new ideas in the first place. It has completely changed the way we do things.”

The DeepFlight series of manned craft represent a fundamental advance in the way submersibles operate, transforming them from “underwater balloons” that use ballast to rise and sink, to craft that are capable of underwater flight -- much the same way that the original aviators made the leap from hot air balloons and blimps to fixed-wing aircraft.

Hawkes relied heavily on Autodesk Digital Prototyping software to design the DeepFlight Super Falcon, a fourth-generation winged submersible capable of carrying two passengers that weighs a fraction of the weight of a conventional two-seat submersible.

By taking advantage of Inventor 3D mechanical design software, Hawkes was able to design the Super Falcon in parallel with another submersible model with a team of just four engineers. By contrast, one of its first generation submersibles — designed without Inventor — required a team of more than 10 engineers.

“Digital Prototyping enables Hawkes to make very effective use of its resources as it dreams up previously unimagined forms of underwater transportation,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry Group at Autodesk. “Their innovative submersibles are sure to fire the public imagination and provide inspiration for a new era of exploration and discovery.”
Source: Businesswire

Posted on 5/27/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

CB&I Awarded Engineering Contract for Golden Eagle Offshore Platforms

 CB&I announced that it has been awarded a contract valued at approximately $150 million by Nexen Petroleum U.K. Limited for the detailed engineering of two fixed platforms for the Golden Eagle field in the U.K. sector of the North Sea.

CB&I's scope of work includes detailed engineering design for the topsides facilities of a wellhead platform and a production utilities and quarters platform. CB&I's contract is expected to be completed by year-end 2012. CB&I recently completed the front-end engineering design (FEED) for the project.

"This award builds on our decades of experience in the offshore industry," said Philip K. Asherman, President and CEO. "Following our successful completion of two projects in the Buzzard field, we are pleased to extend our relationship with Nexen for additional work in the North Sea."
Source: CB&I

Posted on 5/27/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

FUGRO: Geophysical & Geotechnical Contract Awards Mexico

FUGRO in conjunction with long-time associates, Constructora Subacuatica Diavaz, S.A. de C.V., has been awarded two large independent multi-site high resolution geophysical and geotechnical surveys by Mexico’s national oil company PEMEX.

Overall value of the contracts is estimated to be around USD 44 million (approximately EUR 31 million). Work is starting immediately.

Fugro provides the people, equipment, expertise and technology that support the exploration, development, production and transportation of the world’s natural resources. Fugro also provides its clients with the technical data and information required to design, construct and maintain structures and infrastructure in a safe, reliable and efficient manner.

Services that are provided locally, are supported by a global knowledge base and resource pool of experienced personnel. The services are often offered in combination in order to achieve the optimum results for the clients.

Fugro operates as an independent service provider and has no commercial or other direct interests in the projects of its clients. As Fugro is often involved in the early exploration and development phase of (potential) projects, confidentiality about Fugro’s engagements is essential in many cases.

Fugro’s clients operate in many locations and under different conditions. To be able to meet their needs in the best possible way, Fugro’s organisational structure is decentralised and client-oriented, delivering a wide range of services in a variety of operating environments and conditions. Fugro delivers these services from a global network of offices and facilities.

Fugro strives to achieve strong market positions based on (in-house developed) technologies, high-value services and a strong international or regional presence.

Fugro was founded in the Netherlands in 1962 and is listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange of NYSE Euronext since 1992. Fugro was included in the AEX-index as of September 2008.

Fugro grows organically and through acquisitions, and by the end of 2010 employed some 13,500 staff in more than 50 countries.
Source: Fugro

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Ecore: Astep change in VLOC design

Together with FKAB, TGE Marine, Cargotec and MAN Diesel & Turbo, DNV has participated in a joint industry project to develop Ecore, a Very Large Ore Carrier concept designed to lower fuel costs and improve loading efficiency.

Based on existing technology, the Ecore concept represents a step change in VLOC design. Powered by two-stroke dual fuel ME-GI engines, this concept features a more ballast friendly hull shape, a large centre cargo hold layout and introduces a highly efficient self-loading system.

According to DNV project manager Pål Wold, these elements will not only improve the VLOC’s performance but also help lower fuel costs and corresponding emissions. “Working closely with our partners, we recognised that significant improvements can be achieved on both the machinery and hull side by using existing technology,” he says. “Our goal was to combine proven systems and design concepts to demonstrate how fuel costs can be reduced and loading efficiency improved.”

Pål Wold notes that while Ecore may challenge existing ideas on the design of VLOCs, the concept is built on real data. The project team sent out a survey to shipowners, cargo owners and brokers to ensure the project was consistent with market demand, and designed the vessel for a recognised trade – iron ore between China and Australia. “Ecore is grounded in market reality and applies existing technology to real-world issues,” he says.

For example, the cargo centre-hold layout and midship-form was developed to minimise the need for ballast, and enable more efficient cargo handling and allow space for LNG tanks to be stored below the main deck. The self-loading system enables the shore-based loader to operate at a single point along the vessel, which is safer and reduces the time spent in port. At the same time, the ME-GI gas engines developed by MAN Diesel & Turbo make it possible to utilise both conventional fuels and LNG, thus providing a solution which will be robust in a range of fuel price scenarios.

While Pål Wold acknowledges that LNG fuel creates challenges with regard to bunkering and re-training onboard personnel, Ecore’s analysis of the competence issue have revealed that solutions are being developed. “Engine makers – including MAN Diesel & Turbo – are already developing training modules to build competence,” he says.

The Ecore project demonstrates, that significant saving can be achieved, with regard to reducing fuel cost and increasing loading efficiency, when existing technology is used in an innovative way.
Source: DNV

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Hyundai & Daewoo eye NOL orders

South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering may win large containership orders from Singapore’s Neptune Orient Line (NOL).

The liner company is gearing up to spend more than $1.5bn on containership newbuildings comprising 10 vessels of 13,000 teu and two of 10,000 teu at the two yards.
[Read More]
Source: Asiasis

Posted on 5/27/2011 / 0 comments / Read More

Samsung to sign 4,700TEUs

South Korea's Samsung Heavy Industries is said to be finalizing an order for three 4,700-teu containerships with Hanjin Shipping.

Industry sources say Hanjin is paying around $60m per ship and will take delivery of them in late 2012 and early 2013.
[Read More]
Source: Asiasis

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World's shipowners seek naval mandate to sink pirate motherships

SHIPOWNER associations' of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the International Shipping Federation (ISF) has urged navies to authorise a legal mandate to immobilise pirate motherships and provide up-to-date information on their location to shipping.
[Read More]
Source: SeaNews

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Cosco faces loss of $1bn rig contract from Sevan

Shipbuilder Cosco Corp could suffer from a $1.05bn loss of contract to build two oil rigs from its customer Sevan Marine, which is currently facing severe financial difficulties. The Norwegian oil services group Sevan Marine said on Thursday it had cancelled its planned $275m rights issue and was seeking restructuring as it could not meet its project liquidity and financing requirements.
[Read More]
Source: Seatrade Asia

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