TDI-Brooks Completes Geotechnical Coring Project for Geohidra
Launchpad
TDI-Brooks recently completed a significant geotechnical coring project for Geohidra, spanning from the Dragon Field to the Hibiscus platform off the coasts of Venezuela and Trinidad. This project, conducted aboard the DONA JOSE II (DJII) vessel, involved advanced techniques such as Cone Penetration Tests (CPTs) using the Neptune 3,000 system, and the collection of Box Core samples. This article delves into the details of the project, highlighting the challenges, technological advancements, and the broader implications for offshore geotechnical operations.
Kickoff to the Geohidra Project
TDI-Brooks International undertook a significant geotechnical coring project for Geohidra, focusing on the Dragon Field’s development relative to Shell’s Hibiscus platform. This operation aimed to gather critical geotechnical and high-resolution 2D seismic data essential for designing subsea infrastructure and determining pipeline routes.
Geohidra, a Venezuelan company with roots tracing back to 1979 and backed by its parent company in Madrid, Spain, specializes in geotechnics, geophysics, environmental studies, and engineering and construction. Their collaboration with TDI-Brooks demonstrates their commitment to pioneering solutions in challenging offshore environments. Furthermore, the project’s geographical scope centered on the area connecting the Dragon Field to the Hibiscus platform, where Shell operates, necessitating precise data acquisition for safe and efficient subsea construction.
The DONA JOSE II vessel played a pivotal role in executing this project. This vessel was equipped to perform geophysical and geotechnical surveys, employing side scan sonar.
Technical Execution and Innovations
The geotechnical coring project undertaken for Geohidra required meticulous technical execution and the application of innovative methodologies to achieve its objectives. Consequently, the project’s success hinged on the ability to effectively deploy and utilize advanced equipment in challenging offshore conditions. This section details the technical processes involved, highlighting the use of specialized tools and techniques to gather critical subsurface data.
A cornerstone of the investigation was the deployment of the Neptune 3,000 CPT system. This system is designed for Cone Penetration Tests (CPT) in deepwater environments. Moreover, the CPT tests were essential for characterizing the soil stratigraphy and geotechnical properties at the site. The Neptune 3,000 system’s robust design allowed for stable and controlled penetration, even in water depths of 130 to 150 meters. Achieving penetration depths between 3.25 and 6.25 meters required careful monitoring of the system’s hydraulic pressure and penetration rate. Real-time data acquisition provided immediate feedback, enabling operators to adjust parameters as needed to ensure optimal data collection.
CPT Deployment and Data Acquisition
The process began with precisely positioning the Neptune 3,000 CPT system over the designated test locations. Subsequently, the system was lowered to the seabed, where the cone penetrometer was pushed into the soil at a constant rate. During penetration, sensors measured tip resistance, sleeve friction, and pore water pressure. These measurements provided critical data on soil behavior, including soil type, density, and shear strength.
Box Core Sampling
In addition to CPTs, Box Core samples were collected to provide undisturbed soil samples for laboratory testing. These samples are crucial for detailed analysis of soil composition, layering, and the presence of any geological anomalies. Because the Box Core sampler captures a large volume of sediment, it preserves the soil structure and allows for a comprehensive assessment of the seabed conditions.
Operational Challenges in Deep-Water Environments
Deep-water environments present a unique set of operational challenges that demand meticulous planning, advanced technology, and stringent safety protocols. Therefore, the TDI-Brooks’ Geotechnical Coring Project for Geohidra encountered several such challenges, which required innovative solutions and rigorous adherence to safety and maintenance procedures.
One of the foremost challenges in deep-water operations is the technical complexity associated with deploying and maintaining equipment at significant depths. Designing equipment that can withstand the cold, dark, and high-pressure conditions of the deep sea is inherently difficult. The Neptune 3,000 CPT system, for example, had to be robust enough to operate reliably at water depths of 130 to 150 meters while achieving penetration depths of 3.25 to 6.25 meters into the seabed.
Navigating Environmental Complexities
Environmental factors added another layer of complexity to the project. Specifically, low temperatures, impaired visibility, and unpredictable geological formations posed significant operational hurdles. These conditions required adaptive strategies to ensure both safety and data integrity. For instance, specialized coatings and heating elements were used on equipment to prevent freezing and maintain functionality in cold temperatures. High-intensity lighting and advanced imaging technologies, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) with high-definition cameras, were employed to enhance visibility in the dark depths.
Moreover, the geological unpredictability of the deep-sea environment demanded real-time monitoring and adaptive sampling techniques. On-site geologists and engineers collaborated to analyze data as it came in, adjusting drilling paths or sampling locations to account for unexpected formations or unstable sediments.
TDI-Brooks’ Broader Offshore Capabilities
TDI-Brooks distinguishes itself in the offshore geotechnical sector through a broad spectrum of services, extending beyond specific projects like the Geohidra coring operations. The company’s proficiency in handling diverse offshore challenges is evident in their work on shallow hazard surveys and comprehensive geotechnical investigations. These projects showcase TDI-Brooks’ capacity to adapt to varying client needs and environmental conditions.
For Perenco T&T Limited, TDI-Brooks executed shallow hazard surveys to identify potential risks to offshore infrastructure. These surveys are crucial for ensuring the safe installation and operation of pipelines, platforms, and subsea cables. Utilizing advanced geophysical equipment such as 2DHR seismic, side scan sonar, and multi-beam echosounder, TDI-Brooks provided detailed mapping of the seabed and subsurface features. The 2DHR seismic data offers high-resolution imaging of shallow geological structures, allowing for the detection of faults, gas pockets, and unstable sediments. Side scan sonar provides detailed images of the seafloor, identifying objects and morphological features that could pose a hazard. As a result, multi-beam echosounder systems deliver accurate bathymetric data, creating detailed maps of water depth and seabed topography. The integration of these technologies ensured a comprehensive assessment.
The Future of Offshore Geotechnical Operations
The future for TDI-Brooks in offshore geotechnical operations appears promising, underscored by the expansion of offshore wind energy and the imperative for innovative geotechnical solutions. As the demand for offshore wind farms continues to surge, TDI-Brooks is strategically positioned to leverage its expertise and resources to support these developments.
TDI-Brooks can broaden its service offerings to include more specialized surveys and analyses tailored to the unique challenges presented by offshore wind projects. This encompasses advanced site investigations, detailed soil characterization, and assessments of seabed stability to ensure the safe and efficient installation of wind turbine foundations. Additionally, by integrating cutting-edge technologies such as remote sensing and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), the company can enhance its data acquisition capabilities, providing clients with comprehensive insights into subsurface conditions.
Improving operational efficiency is paramount for TDI-Brooks to maintain a competitive edge. Streamlining project workflows, optimizing resource allocation, and minimizing downtime are essential strategies to reduce costs and enhance project turnaround times.
Finale
TDI-Brooks’ successful completion of the geotechnical coring project for Geohidra underscores their expertise in offshore operations. The use of advanced technologies like the Neptune 3,000 CPT system and the ability to navigate deep-water challenges highlight the company’s commitment to innovation and reliability. As TDI-Brooks continues to expand its capabilities, its contributions to the offshore energy sector remain invaluable, paving the way for future advancements in geotechnical surveying and data acquisition.
Leave a Reply