Gulf Coast Offshore Oil Rig Installation

The Gulf Coast Subsea Pipeline Expansion was a critical offshore energy infrastructure project spearheaded by ExxonMobil to enhance crude oil and natural gas transportation across the Gulf of Mexico. With an increasing demand for energy and offshore drilling operations growing deeper and more complex, our company was contracted to fabricate, weld, and install over 250 miles of high-pressure subsea pipelines, connecting deepwater oil rigs to onshore processing facilities.

Our specialized welding teams deployed automated orbital welding technology, which ensured precise, high-strength welds with minimal defects. Given the challenging underwater environment, we utilized hyperbaric welding techniques inside specially designed underwater chambers, allowing for high-integrity welds at depths exceeding 1,000 feet. Additionally, we incorporated corrosion-resistant alloys to extend the pipeline’s lifespan against saltwater exposure and high-pressure gas transport.

To ensure durability and safety, our welds underwent rigorous non-destructive testing (NDT), including ultrasonic and radiographic inspections, to detect microscopic flaws. Compliance with API 1104 standards was maintained throughout the project, ensuring the infrastructure met U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for pipeline safety. The successful completion of this project has strengthened ExxonMobil’s offshore energy supply chain, reducing bottlenecks and increasing efficiency in transporting crude oil and natural gas to Gulf Coast refineries.