Maersk invests in state-of-the-art drilling simulator
Maersk Drilling and Maersk Training have invested in a DrillSIM-6000 drilling simulator from UK-based Drilling Systems that will be housed in a purpose-built complex in Svendborg, Denmark. The system will be able to simulate various well control scenarios, including Maersk-generated deepwater training, and will enable crews to practice a wide range of advanced drilling operations, including stuck pipe, jarring, MPD, BOP landing and LMRP disconnects.
The new simulator will incorporate custom-made rig packages for each of Maersk Drilling’s three latest newbuilding series, including the CJ70 jackup, plus an ultra-deepwater semi and an ultra-deepwater drillship. The drilling simulator also will include three generic rig packages.
The new simulator complex will be built alongside the Maersk Offshore Simulation and Innovation Centre, MOSAIC, and the two facilities will be designed to operate in tandem, enabling complete interaction between rigs and supply vessels.
“We expect the industry to welcome this considerable investment in ensuring that all those on the energy frontline can be taught, tested and assessed by creating scenarios we hope they will never come across in real life, but should they do so they feel better equipped to deal with the situation,” Maersk Training CEO Claus Bihl said. “The breadth and versatility of the complex will mean we can fully assess and develop the decision-making qualities of the individual under the most testing of circumstances.”
Among other features of the simulator is a downhole visualization tool that will help to improve users’ in-depth understanding of the drilling process.
The drilling simulator is expected to be fully operational by mid-2012.
