EnerMech wraps up its largest deepwater nitrogen membrane project in Gulf of Mexico

UK-based oilfield services provider EnerMech has concluded a pre-commissioning project in the Gulf of Mexico for what is described as a “major U.S. infrastructure company”, marking the firm’s largest nitrogen membrane spread in deepwater to date.

The contract, awarded in August 2023, spanned 11 months, during which EnerMech deployed its first 10,000 standard cubic feet per minute (SCFM) nitrogen spread at a water depth of 8,800 feet.

EnerMech said it provided a complete pre-commissioning package, managing oil and gas export pipelines for the client and eliminating the need for additional third-party contractors. 

The project scope included flooding, cleaning, gauging, hydro-testing, and dewatering services, along with the charter of three light construction vessels (LCVs), coiled tubing, and the design and fabrication of pig launchers and receivers.

Using in-house technology, EnerMech relied on the remote flooding console (RFC) and subsea test pump (STP) to handle free flooding and hydro-testing at 8,800 feet. A single vessel was equipped for the 10,000 SCFM nitrogen membrane spread, featuring 18 compressors, 5 nitrogen membranes, 7 nitrogen boosters, and coiled tubing units. High-flow triplex pumps were used for hydro-testing oil export pipelines, noted EnerMech.

Charles ‘Chuck’ Davison, EnerMech’s CEO, said: “We are extremely proud to have completed this project, with a number of significant achievements accomplished along the way. The quick and efficient undertaking of these services to the highest standard is testament to the ability and dedication of both our team in Houston and the strong relationship built with this major U.S. midstream operator.”

The project was carried out by a specialist offshore team of 30 personnel, including field supervisors, engineers, and technicians, based out of EnerMech’s Houston facility.

Frazer Thomson, Vice President of Operations (Americas) at EnerMech added: “This success not only highlights our deepwater expertise but also our commitment to delivering turn-key solutions for clients to overcome complex challenges. We have a strong track record in the Gulf of Mexico and a deep understanding of the region which enabled us to identify and deploy the most suitable solution for our customer.”

In August, EnerMech secured two “significant” pipeline pre-commissioning contracts offshore East Malaysia to boost its pipeline and subsea activities in both deep and shallow waters.

In July 2023, Enermech secured a five-year contract to provide its offshore crane operation and maintenance services in Malaysia, expected to spur a further headcount increase.