Early 2018 IKM Cleandrill will start its first offshore operations in the Caspian Sea, after being awarded a contract for riserless mud circulating system services by Total E&P ABSHERON BV on behalf of JOCAP, Joined Operating Company for Absheron Project, JV between SOCAR (50%) and TOTAL (50%).
The contract will include the installation of IKM’s MRR500 mud recovery system onto a new semisubmersible drill rig, and provision of subsea drilling fluid pumping services as part of Absheron Project’s drilling campaign in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The project is technically challenging, with deep water, high mud weights and potentially harsh environmental conditions, IKM noted.
IKM said it is upgrading its standard MRR500 system with increased pumping power to meet this requirement. The new ‘MRR500 XL’ system will provide Absheron Project with the latest generation high-power mud recovery technology, the company added.
“This contract’s award represents a significant win for IKM Cleandrill,” says Tom Hasler , Managing Director. “Total undertook a detailed evaluation of the MRR500XL system as part of the bidding process, and our technical department has once again re-set the benchmark for mud recovery technology to meet their requirements. Moving into the Caspian region is strategically important for the company and consolidates our position as the leading global mud recovery provider. We look forward to providing excellent service for Absheron Project.”