September 2023

PRIO brings Campos wells online with MDL support

Independent Brazilian operator PRIO has engaged MDL to progress its field development programme in the Campos basin.

The scope covered the installation of 6 reels, ranging from 8.6m to 11.4m diameter and including production flowlines, umbilicals and TCP jumpers in the deepwater field.

The project was part of PRIO’s field revitalisation plan, which is expected to deliver an increase in production levels, to over 40,000 boed.

Working with a Brazilian engineering company, subcontracted by PRIO, MDL provided a complete package of support, including deck layout, supply of the flex-lay spread and personnel and load testing with the product during equipment mobilisation.

The flex-lay spread consisted of an MDL Generation 3 Reel Drive System, mobilised with the Integrated Track & Cradle System and a TTS-4/180 Series Tensioner. It was operated by MDL’s expert field service team.

Prior to the offshore scope, MDL carried out the transpooling of the umbilicals which were stored in Scotland, moving them from a compromised reel onto MDL’s certified offshore installation reel. The operation was also fully project managed by MDL and executed in Peterhead using the company’s Flexlay equipment.

Iuri Rossi, Subsea Manager for PRIO, said:

“We understand MDL as strategic partner for PRIO, specially for the field redevelopments that require installation of new flexibles/umbilicals and for replacement of old assets.

"Since PRIO moves really fast, we need partners with same DNA, dynamic and looking for challenges.”

Yuri Mendes Martins, MDL Brazil Country Manager, said:

“This is one of the first projects I have got involved with as part of MDL and what a great project that was!

“Independent companies in Brazil don’t often have easy access to enabling assets such as specialist vessels, which can negatively affect schedules or budgetary performance.

“However, PRIO is an energetic operator who is keen to progress their field development plans at pace, to maximise their future opportunities. It makes total sense that they would employ a company like MDL, who is an expert in flex lay. By using our knowledge, track record and market-leading technology, they minimised the risk on their operations, while moving forward with their programme.

“I am excited to support PRIO in their future development plans – and other companies here in Brazil who previously might not have had access to the right resources to enable their growth ambitions. I’m sure that will change with MDL do Brasil being here to address their challenges.”