CAT ENGINE SERVICE IN DIFFICULT SEA CONDITIONS ON DRILLING PLATFORMS IN THE BALTIC

In 2022, Eneria began repair work on the CATERPILLAR engine group on the PETRO GIANT drilling platform, owned by LOTOS Petrobaltic. This demanding task is carried out in difficult sea conditions, where equipment reliability is key. Thanks to our experience and commitment, we have contributed to ensuring continuity of production on this platform, which is key to Polish energy security.

DRILLING PLATFORM OPERATION

The entire oil extraction process takes place on the Lotos Petrobaltic offshore platform, i.e.:

• drilling holes: specialist equipment drills holes in the seabed, reaching the oil reservoir.
• pumping oil: once it reaches the reservoir, the oil is pumped to the surface.
• pre-processing: the platform processes the oil, such as separating the water and gas from the oil.
• transportation: the processed oil is then transported by specialist ships to ports, where it is transported to refineries.

POWER GENERATORS – THE HEART OF THE PLATFORM’S ENERGY SYSTEM

The reliable operation of an oil rig is largely dependent on efficient generators. They provide the necessary electrical energy to power all devices and systems, thus enabling safe and efficient mining operations. The energy from generators is used for:

• Drilling equipment drives: drilling rigs, pumps, compressors and other equipment directly related to the extraction process require a constant supply of electricity.
• Lighting: both the platform interior and external lighting are powered by generators.
• Security system operations: alarm, fire and rescue systems require reliable power supply.
• Communication equipment power supplies: radio stations, satellite phones and computer systems must have continuous power supply.
• Air conditioning and ventilation power supplies: maintaining appropriate climatic conditions on the platform is crucial for the comfort of the crew.

TYPES OF USED GENERATORS

On drilling platforms, diesel-powered generators are most commonly used. When choosing generators, attention is paid primarily to:

• Power: must be matched to the platform’s energy requirements.
• Reliability: generators must operate without failure in difficult environmental conditions.
• Exhaust emissions: Due to environmental protection, more and more attention is being paid to reducing emissions of harmful substances.

Since the 1980s, Lotos Petrobaltic’s drilling platform has been reliably equipped with CAT diesel engines, known for their exceptional durability. Despite their solid construction, even such renowned devices require periodic revitalization to meet the ever-increasing demands of operating in difficult marine conditions.

CAT ENGINE SERVICE BY ENERIA CAT, MARINE DIVISION

As an authorized CATERPILLAR partner, Eneria has many years of experience in servicing diesel engines. In 2022, it took part in two tenders, which it ultimately won. A total of 9 engines, including models 3606 and 3516, on Lotos Petrobaltic and PETRO GIANT drilling platforms are due for comprehensive overhaul. Thanks to a professional approach and close cooperation with the customer, we managed to carry out the service work efficiently, minimizing the impact on production continuity.

Old CAT engines are overhauled using parts as part of CAT’s REMAN program. Read more … (link)

REMAN PROGRAM

The CAT REMAN program is a comprehensive solution offered by Caterpillar that allows you to restore worn diesel engines to their factory condition. It is an excellent alternative to buying a new engine, especially in the case of machines operating in difficult conditions, where breakdowns are common.

What is the CAT REMAN program?

• Collection of used parts: The first step is to collect used engines or their individual parts. The engines are dismantled and the individual components are subjected to a thorough analysis.
• Remanufacturing: Used parts are cleaned, repaired or replaced with new, original Caterpillar components. This process is carried out in accordance with the highest quality standards, using specialized equipment and tools.
• Assembly and testing: After remanufacturing, all parts are reassembled and the engine undergoes a series of tests to confirm its full functionality and compliance with factory specifications.

• Warranty: The remanufactured engine is covered by a warranty, which gives the customer confidence in its quality and durability.

Why choose CAT REMAN?

• Costs: Engine remanufacturing is usually cheaper than buying a new one.
• Availability: Spare parts for remanufactured engines are readily available.
• Speed: The lead time for a remanufactured engine is shorter than for a new engine.
• Environmental friendliness: Engine remanufacturing helps protect the environment by reducing waste.
• Quality: Caterpillar remanufactured engines meet the same high quality standards as new engines.

Benefits for the end user:

• Reduced operating costs: Lower purchase costs and longer engine life translate into lower machine operating costs.
• Increased machine availability: Fast engine reconditioning gets machines back into operation faster, minimizing downtime.

• Investment protection: Engine reconditioning extends machine life and increases the value of your investment.

In summary, the CAT REMAN program is an excellent solution for owners of machines equipped with Caterpillar engines who want to reduce operating costs, increase machine availability and contribute to environmental protection.

Our Eneria CAT Polska service team successfully completed an extremely demanding task on the LOTOS Petrobaltic S.A. drilling platform. It included the transport and precise assembly of a CAT 3606 engine block with a crankshaft, previously subjected to mechanical processing. Despite space constraints and the heavy weight of the components, the work was carried out in accordance with the highest standards. The engine block was correctly installed, which is the next stage of comprehensive service support, including the production of some components and spare parts on special order. The flexible schedule of our service visits, adapted to the platform’s operating cycles, and close cooperation with the platform crew and the well-equipped workshop on site, enabled the efficient implementation of the entire project.

mail: lkaczynski@eneria.pl

Author: Łukasz KACZYŃSKI

CAT Parts & Service Sales Representative