ATWOOD FALCON

• Latitude: -21.3493
• Longitude: 114.073
• West Australia
• Offshore Terminal in Australia

Address: Australia

The ATWOOD FALCON is a semi-submersible drilling rig designed for offshore oil and gas exploration and production. While this rig has operated in various locations around the world, I'll provide a general description and specification based on the common features of such semi-submersible rigs. Note that the specific details can vary depending on upgrades and modifications made over time.

General Description

1. Type: Semi-submersible drilling rig.
2. Design: The ATWOOD FALCON is a floating platform that uses ballast tanks to submerge its lower hull to a certain depth, ensuring stability against ocean currents and waves.
3. Usage: Designed for offshore drilling operations, including exploratory drilling and production well drilling.

Technical Specifications

1. Dimensions:

   • Length: Approximately 83 meters (272 feet).
   • Width: Approximately 60 meters (197 feet).
   • Height: Varies with operational needs; hull submersion affects overall height.

2. Drilling Capabilities:

   • Maximum Drilling Depth: Typically around 25,000 to 30,000 feet.
   • Water Depth Capability: Up to 5,000 feet (approx. 1,524 meters).

3. Operational Capabilities:

   • Variable Deck Load (VDL): Generally around 3,500 to 5,000 tons.
   • Helideck: Supports helicopter operations for crew transfer, typically accommodating models such as the Sikorsky S-92.

4. Accommodation:

   • Crew Capacity: It can accommodate around 100-150 personnel, depending on configuration.
   • Facilities: Usually includes living quarters, mess rooms, recreation areas, and medical facilities.

5. Safety and Compliance:

   • Designed to meet international safety and environmental standards.
   • Equipped with lifeboats, life rafts, and emergency evacuation procedures.

6. Propulsion and Positioning:

   • Uses a combination of thrusters for dynamic positioning and mooring systems to maintain location over drilling sites.
   • Typically equipped with advanced positioning systems to ensure precise drilling operations.

7. Mud Systems and Storage:

   • Fully equipped with mud pumps, shale shakers, and other associated solids control equipment.
   • Onboard storage for drilling fluids and bulk materials.

8. Derrick:

   • Derrick height and capacity are designed to handle large drill pipes and heavy-duty drilling operations.
   • Equipped with top drive systems enabling efficient drilling and tripping operations.

Operation in Australia

The rig’s deployment in Australian waters necessitates compliance with local regulations and environmental standards, overseen by organizations such as NOPSEMA (National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority). Additionally, the ATWOOD FALCON would be strategically positioned to access various offshore oil and gas fields, particularly in regions such as the North West Shelf or the Bass Strait, known for their significant hydrocarbon deposits.

Summary

The ATWOOD FALCON is a versatile, high-capacity semi-submersible drilling rig equipped for deepwater offshore operations. Its ability to operate in challenging environmental conditions makes it an asset for oil and gas companies exploring Australian offshore fields, contributing to the region's energy sector. If you need more specific or updated data, referring to the operator or the latest technical bulletins would be advisable.