Cathelco Middle East FZC based in Sharjah won an order to supply a marine growth prevention system (MGPS) for the latest in a series of jackup drilling rigs to be built by UAE-based Lamprell, a provider of fabrication, engineering and contracting services, at their Hamriyah facility.
Cathelco marine growth prevention systems are designed to eliminate blockages caused by barnacles and mussels in seawater lines. The systems consist of copper and aluminium anodes which are wired to a control panel. In operation, the copper anodes produce ions which create an environment where barnacle and mussel larvae do not settle and grow. At the same time the aluminium anode produces ions which suppress corrosion on the internal surfaces of pipes.
On the latest rig, the Cathelco system will protect the lines from three pumps using anodes which are mounted directly into 10in diameter pipes using pipe upstands.
This rig, which will be completely outfitted and equipped by Lamprell, is a LeTourneau designed, self elevating mobile offshore drilling unit of the Super 116E (Enhanced) Class Design.
Image: Lamprell rig under construction/Cathelco