This work introduces a novel predictive methodology combini ang historical metocean data with real-time riser analysis for shallow water dynamically positioned (DP) rig operations, addressing a gap in industry literature. The integrated approach of predictive nonproductive-time (NPT) estimation, real-time monitoring validation, and structured decision protocols for critical scenarios provides a replicable framework for similar challenging operations in shallow-water environments.
Objectives
The focus of this article is on an exploratory location in the pre-salt region of the Campos Basin. The vertical location, in water depths of less than 300 m, revealed the presence of coral in the area, making moored rigs unfeasible. In search of an alternative that would allow the use of DP rigs, studies were conducted to identify viable locations.
The alternative locations identified presented offsets exceeding 3,000 m, resulting in trajectories that were deemed practically unworkable. Given this scenario, attention was refocused on potential locations in water depths of less than 450 m.
In this context, the use of DP rigs for drilling the location in water depths of less than 300 m became a potential enabler for this project.
