Precision Drilling in Tough Marine Conditions
In 2024, J&S Drilling embarked on the Alkimos Offshore – Seawater Desalination Geotechnical Investigation. The project extended from early March to Late May 2024, to investigate subsea geology for a proposed seawater desalination plant. J&S Drillings team, along with the project consultants, sub-contracted marine service provider and valued client, successfully executed the project. Under budget and before the effects of winter weather and subsequent sea conditions impeded on the project deliverables.
Scope of works
The scope of works called for 11x PQ3 diamond core boreholes up to 38m. Taking SPTs, Push Tubes, Vane Shears and Piston Samples in the subsea geology. The drilling and sampling method provided geotechnical engineers with vital geotechnical data to facilitate the design of the seawater desalination plant. In addition, assisting to generate extensive geotechnical reports to the client. The subsea geology was very challenging throughout the project, however, the experienced J&S Drilling team were able to achieve very high recovery rates of core samples in unconsolidated sand and loss circulation limestone. J&S Drillings core recovery was a major talking point amongst all stakeholders and put the company in positions for all future offshore work with the client.
J&S Drilling utilised their M6 Combi-float jack-up barge, fitted with the drill rig, generators, power packs, fixed rod racks and self-contained sea containers. The sea containers on board comprise of an independent kitchen with amenities, servicing workshop and station for consultants to log and store core/ samples. All sea containers are fitted with air-conditioning for comfort, power outlets and lighting to support the operational needs of the consultants and drill crews.
An in-house built Edson 3000WB drill rig was utilised to deliver the scope. The Edson 3000WB drill rig is extremely versatile and allows for a quick changeover with drilling and sampling techniques, subsequently making geotechnical programs more efficient and cost effective.
Jetwave Marine
J&S Drilling sub-contracted our friends at Jetwave Marine to tow and position the jack-up barge in position of the proposed geotechnical boreholes. Positioning the 260T barge in unfavourable sea conditions is always a challenge but the experienced J&S Drilling and Jetwave teams made light work of the challenges, through teamwork and knowledge of the ocean. Jetwave Marine also provided daily crew transfer, water and fuel supply to allow for a seamless operation.
In Conclusion, the successful execution of the project solidified J&S Drilling as a leader of overwater geotechnical drilling investigations and has prompted future programs with our client.
Scope of Work
The scope of works called for 11x PQ3 diamond core boreholes up to 38m. Taking SPTs, Push Tubes, Vane Shears and Piston Samples in the subsea geology. The drilling and sampling method provided geotechnical engineers with vital geotechnical data to facilitate the design of the seawater desalination plant. In addition, assisting to generate extensive geotechnical reports to the client. The subsea geology was very challenging throughout the project, however, the experienced J&S Drilling team were able to achieve very high recovery rates of core samples in unconsolidated sand and loss circulation limestone. J&S Drillings core recovery was a major talking point amongst all stakeholders and put the company in positions for all future offshore work with the client.
J&S Drilling utilised their M6 Combi-float jack-up barge, fitted with the drill rig, generators, power packs, fixed rod racks and self-contained sea containers. The sea containers on board comprise of an independent kitchen with amenities, servicing workshop and station for consultants to log and store core/ samples. All sea containers are fitted with air-conditioning for comfort, power outlets and lighting to support the operational needs of the consultants and drill crews.
An in-house built Edson 3000WB drill rig was utilised to deliver the scope. The Edson 3000WB drill rig is extremely versatile and allows for a quick changeover with drilling and sampling techniques, subsequently making geotechnical programs more efficient and cost effective.
Jetwave Marine
J&S Drilling sub-contracted our friends at Jetwave Marine to tow and position the jack-up barge in position of the proposed geotechnical boreholes. Positioning the 260T barge in unfavourable sea conditions is always a challenge but the experienced J&S Drilling and Jetwave teams made light work of the challenges, through teamwork and knowledge of the ocean. Jetwave Marine also provided daily crew transfer, water and fuel supply to allow for a seamless operation.
In Conclusion, the successful execution of the project solidified J&S Drilling as a leader of overwater geotechnical drilling investigations and has prompted future programs with our client.
