Shell schedules Mars TLP shut down for flexjoint replacements

Aug. 11, 2004
Shell Exploration & Production Co., New Orleans, said it will shut down the Mars tension leg platform on Nov. 4 to replace the flexjoints on oil and natural gas export lines.

By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Aug. 11 -- Shell Exploration & Production Co., New Orleans, said it will shut down the Mars tension leg platform on Nov. 4 to replace the flexjoints on oil and natural gas export lines.

The repairs are expected to take 2 weeks. The Mars TLP is on Mississippi Canyon Block 807 in the Gulf of Mexico. Production from the TLP was shut in May 22, when Shell reported damage to its oil export pipeline's flexjoint following a small oil leak (OGJ Online, June 8, 2004).

Subsequent inspections of the gas line showed deterioration on its flexjoint, so both lines were repaired temporarily while the flexjoints were refurbished. Production resumed at Mars on June 28.

At that time, it was stated that the platform would be shut down again for installation of the repaired flexjoints. Shell operates the Mars TLP with a 71.5% interest. BP has 28.5%.