The new programmes will be merged with previously acquired data to create a seamless and contiguous total volume of more than 16,000 sq km. (Image source: CGG/Wood Mackenzie)

CGG, in association with Côte d’Ivoire's Direction Générale des Hydrocarbures (DGH) and PETROCI Holding, has announced two new multi-client 3D reimaging programmes, CDI24 Phase I (3,120 sq km) and Phase II (6,610 sq km)

Both projects are supported by the industry, with Phase I commencing immediately and Phase II planned for H1 2025.

These new programmes will be merged with the CDI23 (6,430 sq km) reimaged data (originally marketed as 2023/2024 PDSM), to create a seamless and contiguous total volume of over 16,000 sq km, overlapping the recently announced Calao discovery and adjacent to the world-class Baleine field.

Drawing on more than 90 years of geoscience expertise, CGG is utilising its latest proprietary imaging technologies and highly specialised high-performance computing to provide the best possible results from legacy 3D seismic to support exploration offshore Côte d'Ivoire. These cutting-edge tools, including time-lag FWI, Q-FWI, Q-Kirchhoff and advanced deghosting and demultiple techniques, aim to produce clearer images of the deep structural plays not visible in the legacy data, as well as imaging the Calao Cenomanian and Baleine Carbonate fairways at unrivalled resolution, providing a step-change in understanding of the opportunities in the region.

Dechun Lin, executive vice-president - earth data, CGG, said, “CGG is supporting the energy industry by using innovative imaging technology to create new value from existing seismic data in the region. These premium reimaged data sets will provide an all-encompassing and highly accurate view of Côte d'Ivoire's potential, empowering the industry to de-risk future exploration and unlock new energy reserves confidently.”

The urea valve draws on IMI’s extensive expertise in valve installation in oil and gas refineries. (Image source: IMI)

IMI is launching its first control valve for urea plants, which is set to be installed at one of the major fertiliser plants in the MEA region for the first time later this year

The newly designed urea valve draws on IMI’s extensive expertise in designing, installing and maintaining valves in power plants and oil and gas refineries, as well as extensive engagement with the industry. The valve is a product of IMI’s Growth Hub innovation engine, which aims to accelerate the development of new products in collaboration with customers.

The fertiliser industry faces wide ranging challenges such as gland leakage, corrosion and erosion of valve internals, as well granulation at lower fluid temperatures. Additionally, the flashing liquid is a particular challenge for the design of urea valves because it impinges on the body or trim parts at higher velocities due to changes in fluid phases.

IMI’s solution is designed to overcome these challenges. It features an angle over-the-plug configuration with its straight outlet for the flashing fluid, while a rapid increase of the flow diameter downstream where the fluid expands avoids flashing damage downstream of the valve.

Meanwhile, gland leakage resulting from erosive particulate in the urea fluid scratching the valve stem is addressed with wiper/backup rings that prevent packing failure from granules and hard particles. The innovative rings comprise tough but smooth aramid fibre yarns at the corners, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) graphite fibre yarn at the faces, and high density extruded and expanded PFTE cord at the core.

As well as being designed to robustly withstand highly corrosive urea with no dead zone in the body, the valve has been designed with ease of maintenance in mind, featuring a split body and integral bonnet.

Jackie Hu, CEO, Automation at IMI, said, “The development of our first urea valve clearly demonstrates the value of the Growth Hub and of engaging with customers at the earliest stages of the development process.

“Urea valves pose significant engineering challenges because of their exposure to a highly corrosive substance, which our team has worked hard to overcome. The sector has long grappled with inadequate and obsolete valves. The solution we have proposed has been developed collaboratively with the sector to address the key problems its engineers face.”

TPCs have been challenging traditional steel pipes by offering a light, ductile, spoolable and corrosion-free solution for transportation of liquids and gases. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

DNV, the global independent energy expert and assurance provider, is pleased to announce the release of its latest standard, DNV-ST-F207 for hybrid thermoplastic composite flexible pipes (TCPs), which addresses the challenges faced by conventional risers in deepwater applications, where high top tension and corrosive environments are common

TPCs have been challenging traditional steel pipes in the last decade by offering a light, ductile, spoolable and corrosion-free solution for transportation of liquids and gases.

The primary objective of the DNV-ST-F207 standard is to facilitate the integration of innovative technologies, such as carbon fiber armor, into flexible riser designs. By qualifying these technologies and ensuring their adherence to recognized international standards, specifically API Spec 17J and DNV-ST-F119, DNV aims to enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of deepwater projects. The new standard merges different design methods (Working Stress Design and Load and Resistance Factor Design or partial safety factor) into a unified approach. Through this consolidated method, components are made to withstand different kinds of stresses, and extensive tests will ensure they meet safety standards under specific conditions.

"Overall, this initiative reflects a commitment to advancing technology in the offshore industry, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability in deepwater projects thanks to our expertise and the dedication of our global teams of specialized experts," said Prajeev Rasiah, Executive Vice President & Regional Director Northern Europe, Energy Systems at DNV.

The implementation of the DNV-ST-F207 standard is expected to have significant consequences for deepwater projects: by incorporating carbon fiber armor elements, risers will become lighter, resulting in lower top tension, and this innovative solution provides a more sustainable and reliable option for deepwater applications. Furthermore, carbon fiber exhibits superior resistance to degradation in aggressive environments, showcasing excellent fatigue performance.

DNV's release of the DNV-ST-F207 standard marks a significant milestone in the offshore industry's pursuit of technological advancements for a more sustainable future. 

Deep Casing Tool’s suite of technology includes the TurboCaser, TurboRunner, MechLOK and Rubblizer. (Image source: Deep Casing Tools)

Aberdeen-based Deep Casing Tools has won a King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category.

The firm, a provider of innovative solutions for the global oil and gas industry, has been recognised for its robust international trade growth strategy, which has successfully driven an increased footprint in the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Latin America. In response to increasing demand for its technology, the company recruited an additional seven people last year, including three strategic appointments in Saudia Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, increasing the total number of employees globally to 25.

David Stephenson, Deep Casing Tools CEO said, “We have significantly increased our overseas footprint in recent years by entering new territories, and it is fantastic to see our efforts recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise. By diversifying our business internationally, prioritising markets with the highest growth potential and building strategic alliances, we have built a strong track record across the regions we operate.

“Our global growth strategy has been led by a combination of robust research and development with in-depth market knowledge to identify opportunities for expansion and development, whilst continuing to deliver a personal, bespoke service to each of our customers. I am delighted for our team, this award is a testament to their continued hard work and dedication and I look forward to building on this success in the coming years.”

Deep Casing Tool’s suite of technology includes the TurboCaser, TurboRunner, MechLOK and Rubblizer. All were deployed around the world in 2023, delivering a total of 64 projects, with the TurboCaser accounting for 73% of its global commerce.

The high-speed, turbine-powered casing running system helps drilling teams to land casings and intermediate liners at target depth in even the most complex wells. It’s 75% faster than conventional technology and can save up to three days per project, delivering significant efficiencies.

The company has experienced significant demand for the solution, particularly in Saudia Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. During a recent project offshore Abu Dhabi, the application of the TurboCaser enabled a major operator to save more than 1,500 rig time hours, US$13.7mn in operational costs and 4,247 MT in CO2 emissions when compared to traditional methods.