Abstract
Anadarko Petroleum Corporation has demonstrated the use of a reusable Modular Platform* to minimize the footprint and environmental impact of a drilling operation in an ecologically sensitive area.
The modular platform was installed on a location in the North Slope Borough of Alaska, for the continuous coring of the Hot Ice #1, a joint venture hydrate exploration well in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Noble Drilling subsidiary, Maurer Technology Inc.
The concept was approved in spring of 2002 and the design, fabrication, systems testing, and mobilization to North Slope was completed by the start of field operations in January 2003. The removal of the platform is scheduled for March 2004. During all phases of the project, the platform was monitored for stability and its impact on the tundra.
The modular platform application represents a significant step towards establishing temporary or permanent drilling and production sites in ecologically sensitive areas with a minimal footprint and environmental impact. It is readily configured for deep or shallow wells, for applications in the arctic or the marsh or the foothills. The modular platform is also suitable to be designed and utilized as a production platform or pipeline facility, in areas without road access.
