Aquaterra Energy seals 15k HPHT riser deal for Azerbaijan project

UK-based offshore energy engineering solutions Aquaterra Energy says it has been awarded a high-pressure high temperature (HPHT) subsea riser contract with oil and gas operator, Umid Babek Operating Company (UBOC), for the exploration of its HP well on the Babek project in Azerbaijan.

Aquaterra Energy will deliver its 15,000 psi subsea riser system, utilising its AQC-SR connector range, as part of UBOC’s drilling program for the BX-01 exploration well located at the Babek field. Aquaterra Energy will provide a complete end-to-end managed service, as a fully independent riser system and connector OEM, which will be operated via a jack-up MODU, in water depths of 62 meters.  

The company secured the competitive tender through its early consultation and solutions-based approach. Aquaterra Energy’s in-house team of engineering experts advised using a jack-up rig instead of a semi-submersible to maximise safety and efficiency, while minimising cost and rig-time. Semi-submersible rigs can suffer more downtime and can take up to 20% additional time to complete the same operation, as opposed to using a jack-up in shallower water depths.  

The system’s AQC-SR quick connectors will provide UBOC with crucial gas tight metal-to-metal seals and a back-up elastomeric seal. In addition, the ability to pressure test each connection upon make-up provides enhanced environmental reassurance against well bore fluid discharge, and gives assurance of connector integrity prior to running.  

Ben Cannell, Innovation Director at Aquaterra Energy said: “We’re delighted to be working with UBOC on this project and to continue demonstrating our HPHT riser system expertise in locations such as Azerbaijan. We see huge potential here for our team to provide intelligently engineered solutions, whilst also supporting industry decarbonisations efforts. We’re pleased to provide a system that ensures enhanced efficiency and reduced rig time – whilst also working alongside and supporting local engineers in-country.” 

UBOC adds: “Aquaterra’ s continuous consultation was second to none on this project and allowed us to explore options that we wouldn’t traditionally. Together we will be able to reach operational deadlines, whilst also taking environmental considerations into account. The team’s innovative approach has been instrumental in making this project viable and we are very much looking forward to continuing our collaborative relationship.” 

Aquaterra Energy was founded in 2005 and has supported customers in the North Sea, Southeast Asia, West Africa, the Caribbean and Australia. It is headquartered in Norwich, UK, and has additional offices in the UK, Norway, Egypt and Perth.