With higher demand bringing more drill ships out of warm- or cold-stacking, now is an excellent time to evaluate how current methods of layup have failed or succeeded and take a wiser view for inevitable future market downturns. Given the practical benefits of Cortec® preservation materials, which do not require electricity or temperature controls, that wiser course may very well involve the use of VpCI® Technology on your next drill ship layup.
Corrosion Protection for Void Spaces
Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitors are especially ideal for protection of void spaces, including tanks, vessels, risers, electrical junction boxes, or electronic control panels on the ship. Applied by fogging or emitter installation, Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitors diffuse throughout the enclosed space and form a molecular protective layer on metal surfaces to which they are attracted. Little to no removal is necessary upon startup.
Layup of Lube Systems
Lubrication and hydraulic systems may be protected with specialty corrosion inhibiting additives dosed into a system that has been partially or fully drained. Oil additives such as M-535 provide vapor-phase protection to empty areas that are not directly in contact with the treated lubricant and where condensation could easily occur. CorrLube™ VpCI® Lithium EP Grease is an excellent option for corrosion protection on parts that require NLGI Grade 2 grease and require intermittent operation.
External Protection
Large pieces of equipment on deck can be externally protected with VpCI®-126 HP UV Shrink Film or MilCorr® VpCI® Shrink Film, which offer UV resistance in addition to corrosion protection. MilCorr® is especially durable for long-term outdoor storage conditions that involve wind and rain. It can even be fitted with access panels for periodic equipment inspection. Removable coatings such as VpCI®-369 (for moving parts) and VpCI®-391 (for static parts) offer another form of corrosion protection for exposed metal surfaces in sheltered areas where an extra layer of interim protection is needed.
True Test of Successful Layup
The true test of a successful drill ship layup comes when bringing the vessel back online. Proper rust prevention can minimize startup costs by keeping equipment in good condition and simplifying recommissioning procedures. If your last layup left you disappointed by rust or complicated procedures, contact Cortec® for help achieving easier, more effective drill ship preservation next time around.
Keywords: drill ship preservation, drill ship layup, cold stacking, mothballing, oil and gas market, Cortec, corrosion protection, corrosion inhibitors, VCI film, coatings for metal
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