The technologically advanced tong system has simplified the well construction process. (Image source: Expro)

As Eni advances exploration activities in the Baleine field offshore Cote d'Ivoire, it onboarded Expro for its autonomous iTONG system to ensure operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability 

The technologically advanced tong system has simplified the well construction process by eliminating considerable rig time and labour time, keeping personnel away from the hazardous Red Zone of the rig floor. Less rig time further brought down the net CO₂ emissions.

By automating the connection make-up and break-out of casing and tubing joints, iTONG provides precise torque control from the push of a single button - operated safely from the driller’s cabin - while enabling full connection make-up validation.

Expro secured the Tubular Running Services (TRS) contract aboard the Deep Value Driller (DVD) drillship, which arrived in Cote d'Ivoire in late 2023.

Jeremy Angelle, vice president of well construction, said, “Since its introduction to Norway four years ago, iTONG has been recognised by major operators as a top-tier solution for tubular connection make-up and validation.

“In this case, its performance has exceeded expectations, with a 50% reduction in make-up times. The vision and commitment demonstrated by both Eni and Expro in introducing this technology to Africa exemplify a shared dedication to safer, more efficient operations.”

Jeremy added, “iTONG continues to redefine industry standards, improving safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for offshore operations worldwide. Thanks to cutting-edge systems like iTONG, our R&D teams are leading the TRS industry in enhancing safety, reducing emissions, and driving global cost savings.”

The contract will cover the pre-laying activities for an upcoming drilling campaign. (Image source; Subsea7)

Subsea 7 has received a subsea contract in West Africa

This contract will see the company transporting and installing flexible pipelines, umbilicals, and associated subsea components for the connection of a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel. It will also cover the pre-laying activities for an upcoming drilling campaign.

Project management and engineering work will begin immediately at Subsea7’s offices in Sutton, UK and Suresnes, France, and offshore activity is expected to start in 2026.

Jerome Perrin, Vice President Africa, Middle East, and Turkiye for Subsea7, said, “Our close and agile collaboration with our clients allows us to make possible cost-effective and reliable offshore solutions for their needs. We are pleased to be able to support this client in executing such a strategically important project in West Africa. ”

the riser lines will be manufactured with high-density polyethylene. (image source: AIS Bardot)

AIS Bardot will be working for Saipem Group, serving hybrid riser lines to develop Total Energies’ Kaminho project in Angola

The contract outlines manufacture and supply of three complete hybrid riser lines of 100 metres each. These will be used to pump seawater to provide the appropriate volume and flow of cold water to cool down essential equipment and prevent overheating in the FPSO unit. 

To ensure they are light and compact, the riser lines will be manufactured with high-density polyethylene instead of traditional rubber and steel. Cheaper operating costs besides, these less-energy consuming risers will also be sustainable to use. 

Stanislas Tchoutakian, business development manager for France, said, “This success strengthens our close relationship with Saipem and Total on this very particular supply. Many years of development and qualification led to this award, congratulations to all the team who made this achievement possible.”

Engineered to meet the precise requirements of water depth, temperature, and flow rate, the water intake risers accommodate the hydrodynamic stresses of the operational environment, ensuring maximum functionality and cost effectiveness. They are easy to install, with a long life span and no maintenance required, while meeting international offshore standard to meet all required specifications.

AIS, (incorporating Covertherm, Manuplas, Bardot, and CRP Subsea) supplies insulation, passive fire protection, buoyancy, and cable protection systems. 

Halliburton operated from its new bases in the country. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Two exploration wells on Block 2914 that fall under the purview of Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) 85 offshore Namibia have now been delivered by Rhino Resources and Halliburton

Orchestrated from Halliburton's new operational bases in Walvis Bay, Swakopmund and Luderitz, the operation was made possible with world-class technology and local collaboration.

Antoine Berel, vice president, Halliburton sub-Saharan Africa, said, "This success is an example of what’s possible when world-class technology, local collaboration, and a shared long-term vision come together. Our newly established infrastructure across Namibia enabled this discovery, which will help unlock Namibia’s energy potential and build the capacity to support the country’s future as an energy hub in Africa."

As Namibia attracts international interest in its offshore basins, the success of this campaign sets a new standard for energy development in the region.

“At the onset of the drilling campaign, we communicated to our partners that Rhino’s exploration efforts in Namibia should simultaneously prove geological potential and deliver long-term benefits for the country. The discoveries on Block 2914 are a promising start to this journey, which will contribute to the foundation we are laying for Namibia’s burgeoning oil and gas industry — one built on knowledge and skills transfer, local capacity building and the upliftment of young Namibians,” said Travis Smithard, CEO of Rhino Resources.

The Rhino-Halliburton Technology Centre at the University of Namibia (UNAM) Southern Campus came into being in October last year to advance geoscience education and research nationwide.