Frigstad Deepwater Begins Construction of New Deepwater Rig Alfa

On August 28th, 2013, Frigstad Deepwater Rig Alfa, the biggest ultradeepwater semi-submersible drilling rig in the world with dual drilling towers, constructed by CIMC Raffles for Frigstad Deepwater Offshore, had its steel cutting in HCRO.

Harald Frigstad, the Chairman of Frigstad Deepwater Company, the CEO Simen S. Eriksen, and Mr. Yu ya, the President of CIMC Raffles jointly started the steel cutting machine.

Frigstad Deepwater Rig Alfa belongs to the latest generation of ultra deepwater semi-submersible drilling rigs and also is the second one constructed by CIMC Raffles for Frigstad Deepwater Company. This platform is a drilling rig with a length of 177 meters, width of 92.7 meters and height of 118 meters. It features a maximum displacement of 70000 tons, maximum operating water depth of 12000 feet (3658 meters), drilling depth of 50000 feet (15250 meters) and dual top drives load of 1250sh.tons.

Besides, it is equipped with DP3 dynamic positioning system. This platform is classified by Norway Classification Society. It boasts of efficiently-designed space and convenient maintenance access and for the first time, employs DP3 enclosed circle design, detritus cabin processing and storage system as well as a ballast water treatment system.

What is more, due to its NOV hydraulic dual towers design, its production efficiency will be highly improved on the basis of security guarantee. This drilling rig is operational in multi deepwater areas, such as the Mexico Gulf, the China South Sea, Australia, the Brazil Sea, West Africa and the South Atlantic.

Its basic design is provided by Frigstad Engineering Company whereas its detailed construction design, construction and commissioning work will be carried out by CIMC Raffles. Besides, CIMC Raffles will independently complete the installment and commissioning of the entire drilling system. CIMC Raffles will continue to employ the unique construction mode, that is, carrying out parallel construction of deckbox and lower hull by 20,000 tons gantry crane.

This platform is scheduled to be delivered at the end of 2015.

[mappress]
Press Release, August 28, 2013