After a gap of almost eight years, the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Ramachandrapuram unit, is getting ready to build E-1700 rigs that will be used for onshore drilling by the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC). Each rig will approximately cost Rs. 129 crore.
The orders were placed in January 2012 and the first rig will be handed over in July 2013 after testing and verification by a third party.
ONGC had placed orders for six rigs worth about Rs. 775 crore. The oil rig division of the BHEL was entrusted with the job, which was so far busy with power plants related business.
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ONGC, which earlier took rigs on lease, changed its plans and place orders with BHEL for 2000 HP AC deep drilling rigs.
These rigs have the latest technology to ensure drilling with a high degree of efficiency and speed.
Since the source of power is high capacity diesel engines in these rigs, the consumption of diesel will be reduced by 25 per cent for one well drilling compared to rigs with DC motors.
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While the mechanical systems required for the rig will be manufactured at the Ramachndrapuram unit, the electrical and control systems will be developed at Bhopal. It will have an electronically controlled operator's cabin, which will make it easy to operate.
NAV tech support
“We have entered into an agreement with National Oil-well Varco (NAV), a US-based manufacturer of oil field equipment, for technology support in manufacturing these rigs,” R. K. Wanchoo, Executive Director, BHEL, told The Hindu . He said about 60 suppliers would be roped in for supply of material. The BHEL has also expanded its floor shop to execute the work order.