Mammoet Completes Jack-Up Rig Leg Extensions Ahead of Schedule in Dubai

Mammoet has completed a series of heavy lifting operations for the BW Maromba B wellhead platform conversion project at Drydocks World Dubai, finishing ahead of schedule. The project converts the former VALARIS 247 jack-up drilling rig into a wellhead platform for the Maromba field offshore Brazil. Mammoet installed nine rig leg extension sections, increasing the height of all three legs from 175 to 205 metres to enable the platform to operate at its future offshore location.

 

Details of the Project

 

Mammoet has completed significant heavy lifting work. This was part of a rig conversion project. The work took place at Drydocks World Dubai. It supported the BW Maromba B wellhead platform conversion. The operations were commissioned by Drydocks World.

The project involves a major asset conversion. It repurposes the former VALARIS 247 rig. This was a heavy-duty jack-up drilling rig. It is being converted into a wellhead platform. The platform will be deployed at the Maromba field offshore Brazil.

 

Scope of the Lifting Work

 

Mammoet's scope covered specialist lifting operations. It provided engineering, equipment and personnel. The work involved installing nine rig leg extension sections. These spanned three legs of the rig. Each leg consisted of three triangular sections.

The components were substantial in size and weight. Each section weighed approximately 105 tonnes. They measured 10.2 metres in height. They were also 16.2 metres in width. These dimensions made the lifts technically demanding.

 

The Crane Deployment

 

The project featured a notable crane milestone. It marked the first deployment of a specific configuration. This was the CC 8800-1 Boom Booster configuration. It was the first such deployment in the UAE. This represented a significant technical achievement.

The crane was configured for demanding lifts. It featured a 120-metre main boom. A 96-metre luffing jib completed the setup. This delivered the required hook height. It also provided the necessary lifting performance.

 

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The Role of the Boom Booster

 

The Boom Booster enhanced the crane's capability. It was fitted to the crane's main boom. This extended the crane's lifting capability. It allowed components to be lifted higher. It also enabled longer working radii.

This configuration avoided the need for a larger crane. The Boom Booster provided the extra capacity required. This offered an efficient solution to the lifting challenge. It handled heavy components at greater heights. This demonstrated the value of the configuration.

 

Engineering and Execution

 

The project relied on thorough engineering. A comprehensive engineering package was prepared. This included detailed lifting studies. Ground bearing pressure calculations were also carried out. Detailed execution procedures completed the package.

This planning ensured safe execution. Every lift was carefully planned in advance. The work occurred within shipyard operational constraints. The lifting increased all three legs from 175 to 205 metres. The works were completed ahead of schedule.

 

Significance of the Project

 

The project reflects a growing industry trend. Repurposing offshore assets is increasingly important. It allows operators to extend infrastructure life. It maximises the value of previous investments. It also reduces the need for new construction.

The completion marked a key milestone. Drydocks World described it as significant. It brought together engineering and fabrication teams. Mammoet's heavy lifting expertise was central. Once complete, the platform will support the Maromba field development.