According to Total E&P, which drilled the well, the RMR technology provides a means of recirculating and re-using drilling fluids. Ability Subsea, which is part of Norway-based oil technology and services group Ability Group ASA, developed the technology.
Benefits include cost savings from reduced operating time and decreased environmental impact because discharge into the sea is avoided.
The RMR technology was also recently deployed off Sakhalin Island in eastern Russia and in the Barents Sea where no drilling discharge is permitted.
Total E&P is said to be planning further deployment of the technology later this year.
The RMR technology has been deployed in water depths of up to 400m and Ability Subsea has now commenced development work with two leading oil corporations to make the technology operational in water depths up to 1500m. Field trials at these depths are planned next year.
