Oceaneering toppled two platforms in place for BP's Rigs 2 Reef Program utilizing Oceaneering vessels, Hydra® Millennium ROVs, and diamond wire cutting technology. Following diver preparations of the platforms, the successful decommissioning project was safely performed by ROV intervention exclusively. No explosives were used, in accordance with recent restrictions for plug and abandonment projects in the Gulf of Mexico.

Oceaneering modified Cutting Underwater Technologies (CUTS) diamond wire cutting machines (DWCM) for ROV friendly use and proceeded with the decommissioning of BP's Eugene Island 322 "A" Drilling and "A" Production Platforms, located in 235 fsw. The powerful 225 hp Hydra® Millennium Plus ROV aboard the Ocean Service maneuvered a 30" DWCM to cut the platforms' vertical diagonal members first. The jacket legs were then severed using the 150 hp Hydra® Millennium ROV onboard the Ocean Intervention II and a larger 64" DWCM. An anchor-handling vessel connected to previously installed rigging completed the toppling, which was followed by surveying of the sites for mapping purposes.

For more information on Oceaneering vessel or ROV services, contact Randy Kille:
E-mail: rkille@oceaneering.com
Phone: 713.329.4558

05/21/04