Doyon Drilling Makes Extended Reach Modifications to Rig 15
Doyon Drilling, Inc. (DDI) is currently working on making extended reach modifications to DDI Rig 15, which has been in operation offshore in Alaska on Spy Island for Eni since 2011. Doyon’s planning began in 2016 when Eni approached DDI to make modifications for an extended reach exploration well, Nik North Exploration Well (Nik North).
Currently, Rig 15’s typical drilling reach is 20,000 – 25,000 feet, while the bottom hole drilling location of interest for Nik North is approximately 33,000 – 35,000 feet from the surface of Spy Island. Eni funded a study in early 2016 to determine the requirements and extent of the modifications needed for the extended reach.
The 2017 rig modifications will be made for the extended reach for the exploration well to be drilled, but will not necessarily designate Rig 15 as a long-term or production extended reach drilling rig. The following units will be modified for the extended reach exploration project: derrick and top drive, mud system, blowout preventer, power units and solids control.
“Doyon Drilling looks forward to modifying Rig 15, located at Spy Island, for ENI. The modifications will allow ENI to utilize Rig 15 to drill extended reach exploration well (Nik North) from its existing location at Spy Island,” stated DDI General Manager Ron Wilson.
DDI’s Rig 15 main equipment replacement and modifications are expected to take place once equipment is received this July during open water season. Total modifications are expected to be completed in December 2017. Eni plans to spud or make the initial drilling for the Nik North Exploration Well directly after Rig 15 modification completion.
For more information about DDI, visit www.doyondrilling.com.