Client: International drilling contractor
Industry: Drilling
Asset: Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit (MODU)
Location: Offshore India
Year: 2020

Challenge

The client was unable to use the three existing cranes at full capacity on its rig, due to various corroded (pitting) sections on the lattice boom structures. As there were ongoing drilling activities at that point in time, it was not possible to bring down the boom structures and move them onshore for refurbishment.

Axess India was requested to find a solution to carry out the refurbishment in situ.

Solution

As there were no 3D models available due to the age of the cranes, the team had to first create a model based on the available GA drawing of the cranes. Upon mobilisation of the crew, they carried out a full assessment of the condition of the crane structures. Subsequently, they refurbished the crane booms and conducted both Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to the global quality standards.

The pre-execution planning was the key to success, as the team had limited time to complete the project and they could only work on one crane at a time due to ongoing activities. Axess quickly developed the methodology, identified the risks involved, procured raw materials and formed a time-bound execution strategy.

This project was carried out with the virtual support of Axess’ Engineering Department and ALPA. 

Results

Three crane booms were successfully refurbished and load tested, allowing the client to utilise the cranes at full capacity.

“Despite some limitations brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are proud to have successfully completed the scope of work according to the planned schedule and received excellent feedback from the client,” said Rajib Bhowmik, Country Manager of Axess India.

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