Omron IDM Controls has won two contracts to manufacture and commission AC variable speed drives (VSDs) and rig automation controls for the recently announced Helmerich & Payne FlexRig4 new-build program.
The new FlexRig4 units are designed with the environment in mind, said Helmerich & Payne spokesman Doug Fears.
The new units take up half the space of a typical rig, yet can drill three times as many wells, reducing the surface damage and industrial footprint caused by drilling. They also cost 15% less to manufacture than the previous model, FlexRig3.
The rigs will be commissioned for use by US natural gas company Williams in the Piceance Basin in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
The FlexRig4 design includes an innovative rail system that allows the rig to move and complete multiple wells from one location. The rig’s mobility and control systems allow a FlexRig4 operator to begin the production of one well and continue the drilling and completion of other wells on the same site, according to Helmerich & Payne.
Omron IDM Controls will supply 13 Variable Speed Drive houses with state-of-the-art rig automation controls. Helmerich & Payne Drilling intends to take delivery of all the systems by March 2006, with the first FlexRig4 expected to be commissioned by November 2005.
Omron IDM Controls also announced a contract with Academy Services (a division of Nabors Drilling) to supply 20 VSD packages for use with Nabor’s proprietary Programmable A/C Electric (PACE) smart technology rig packages.
Omron IDM Controls will supply Academy Services a complete package including switchgear, AC VSDs and auxiliary controls.
Academy Services intends to take delivery of all 20 systems by May 2006.
In support of the US subsidiary’s achievements, Japanese parent company Omron announced its intention to expand and upgrade Omron IDM Controls' existing manufacturing facilities to support additional large project business.
