By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, Nov. 1 -- Shell Exploration & Production Co., New Orleans, postponed until late first quarter 2005 the replacement of flexjoints on its Mars platform export pipelines to avoid Gulf of Mexico production constraints beyond those caused by damage from Hurricane Ivan.
The 2-week Mars shutdown for the replacements originally was scheduled for Nov. 4 (OGJ Online, Aug. 11, 2004).
The Mars tension leg platform, on Mississippi Canyon Block 807, initially was shut in on May 22, and temporary repairs were made to both lines while the flexjoints were refurbished. Production resumed June 28.
Operator Shell holds a 71.5% interest, and BP PLC holds 28.5%.
