Back MoorLOK™ Recovery in the Gulf of Mexico
ATP and Intermoor have successfully overseen the release and reconnection of five Balltec MoorLOK™ mooring connectors from the ATP Innovator Semi-Submersible on the Gomez Oil Field. The Semi has been in-situ for the past six years in the Gulf of Mexico and has recently undergone compulsory mooring upgrades.
On release, all sealed surfaces in the MoorLOK™ male connectors had suffered zero internal corrosion providing valuable in-service data. The results of the data have provided verification of corrosion protection utilising corrosion inhibitor packs. The MoorLOK™ connectors were successfully relocated and reconnected to new female receptacles after minimal servicing.
Derrick Laskowski, Staff Engineer for Intermoor was keen to document high praise for the Balltec technicians involved in the reconnection stating;
“Their efforts (Balltec Technicians), played a significant part in the overall success of this job.”
“I can’t stress enough how pleased I am with their help in all aspects of the project without complaint”
Bob Emmett, Chairman of Balltec Ltd said:
“The unique design of the MoorLOK™ release clamps can deal with any residual torque present in the mooring line during disconnection, without detrimental risk to the ROV. Balltec have engineered a hassle free, risk free release solution that cements our position as the number one innovator of ball and taper mooring connectors.”
As a direct result of the swift release and reconnect of the MoorLOK™ connectors it has been estimated that Intermoor, in partnership with Balltec, have reduced the overall cost of the mooring upgrade by approx. $1m.
