SODV DECEMBER REPORT
John,
The November monthly report was posted on the web site around the 17th of last month. The December report is complete and will be posted in the next day or two but I’ve attached a copy for your information.
The wireline heave compensator shore based testing is nearly complete. The MRU is undergoing final testing and certification. The system will then be shipped to Singapore for installation and at sea testing. See the monthly report for more detail. (WBS 1.2.2.6)
As I noted previously, Deep Down constructed WHCs for both ships. However I do not have any specific information on the WHC for the Chikyu.
The JR does not have an ROV but there is space for a rented unit if needed for a specific expedition.
I do not know of any further work presently planned for Deep Down. Schlumberger is under contract to LDEO for logging tools and support on the JR.
Hope this is helpful,
Bill
DEEP DOWN LISTED UNDER LDEO--ENJOY! FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT KNOW DEEP DOWN HAS A PROTEUS AHC WINCH ON BOTH THE CHIKYU AND JOIDES RESOLUTION THE ONLY TWO SCIENTIFIC OIL DRILLING VESSELS IN THE WORLD-THIS IS A REPORT FROM THE JOIDES RESOLUTION
1.1 Project Management
1.1.1 JOI Program Management
The major JOI management efforts this month included:
· Subcontractor oversight, coordination and guidance.
· Review and approval of the Cost Performance Report.
· Continued development of information for the science community.
· Web site updates.
· Preparation of the monthly report to NSF.
· Preparation of weekly updates to NSF.
· Minutes of weekly SODV team conference calls.
· IOC update by conference call.
· Keeping NSF informed and responding to questions.
· Participation in the Dec 1st-3rd review of shipyard progress in Singapore.
The CMT approved one change request during the month of December, specifically:
· CR007 – Passive Heave Cylinder Refurbishment
All approved change requests are available in the OPTIX document management system.
1.1.2 SODV Project Management Office TAMU/TAMRF
Personnel - Singapore
· Ashley Crane departed Singapore on December 6th.
· Stacy Greer arrived on December 16th.
Project’s Master Schedule
· Development of the Shipyard’s Area Detail Schedules began in MS Project. These schedules will augment the shipyard’s detail schedule and identify all remaining work scopes by area. The identification of remaining work will be a joint effort between JSL Area Managers and ODL Coordinator/Mentor. Schedules will be created, updated and maintained.
· Continued attending Crew and Shipyard War Room daily meetings.
· Continued attending weekly meetings with the Shipyard Project Management Team and craft supervisors to review current schedule status.
· Continued weekly status updates to the shipyard main contract progress tracking schedule.
· Updated the Master Schedule’s task status through the November reporting period.
· Calculated Earned Value through the end of November.
· Updated and distributed the CAM Science System status worksheets for updates through December.
· Continued weekly updates for the crew work list and S-Curve to current status.
· The shipyard’s fabrication and installation efforts have remained consistent but those efforts have not been able to mitigate any of the prior slip in schedule. Some of the piping, hot work, electrical and outfitting tasks continue to fall further behind schedule.
· The shipyard’s detail schedule still supports the March 31st delivery date. JSL’s senior management still asserts that they can and will meet the delivery date.
· The SODV project management team believes that the overall shipyard conversion project has slipped by at least one month and we don’t believe that the shipyard will be able to mitigate this slip at their current performance rate.
1.1.3 LDEO Project Management
Oversight of the project involving the Schlumberger (SLB)/Deep Down Inc (DDI) wireline heave compensating system (WHC) is continuing. Successful testing of most of the WHC components for the JOIDES Resolution unit has been completed with only the final testing results of the MRU being outstanding. LDEO is making adjustments to shipment schedules for all LDEO and Schlumberger equipment based on the lab space availability dates. The integration of the LDEO IT equipment into the ship’s network has been completed and the LDEO servers will be shipped to Singapore once the lab availability schedule can be finalized.
1.2 Provide New Science System
1.2.1 Design Science Systems
This work effort is completed.
1.2.2 Acquire Science System
1.2.2.1 Test and Integration Facility
Science equipment setup, testing and integration continue at the land based testing and integration facility in College Station.
1.2.2.2 Analytical Systems
SODV Databases and Data Management
LIMS Procurement – Project complete.
LIMS Implementation - The acceptance testing of the sampling program continues. Addition of scale display options to web reports for samples is complete. Cut over from the JANUS database is planned for March 3rd.
Sample Request Management – Project complete.
Document Access – Project complete.
Web Services - Work continues and is being developed as needed to support other work. Completion is anticipated on January 15th, 2008.
Drilling Operations
Rig Instrumentation – Project complete.
Operations Information Capture - Specifications have been completed for Navigation, Bathymetry and Seismic. Final confirmation of RIS specifications is waiting on information from the vendor, Epoch, on actual format of data transmission. The specification on Excel capture is complete. Completion is anticipated on February 15th, 2008.
Geologic Description and Analysis
Descriptive Information Capture – The project work has been completed and data is being loaded in preparation for acceptance testing. Completion is anticipated on January 15th, 2008.
Data visualization - The completion date for this project is now January 31st, 2008, in order to shift programming resources to instrumentation completion.
Downhole T-P Modeling and Analysis - Training has been completed. Testing has been completed and the acceptance report has been drafted.
Stratigraphic Correlation Integration – Delivery of a workstation is still pending (system on order). Completion is anticipated on January 18th, 2008.
Core Loggers and Imagers
Split Core Non-Contact Logger Imager – A correction to the lighting issues identified in initial acceptance testing has been determined and additional lights have been ordered. The system will be modified and re-tested after receipt of the additional lights. Completion is anticipated on January 31st, 2008.
Natural Gamma Radiation Multi-Sensor Logger - The issue identified with the plastic scintillators is being corrected through re-design; machined parts have been completed except for minor corrective adjustments for fitting. Additional fitting issues because of re-design were dealt with and assembly continues. Completion is anticipated on January 31st, 2008.
Whole-Round Multi-Sensor Logger - Physical assembly and mounting of sensors has been completed. The p-wave component been delivered by VI Technology, Inc. Programming components for motion control, magnetic susceptibility, and non-contact resistivity are functioning. Completion is anticipated on January 15th, 2008.
Split-Core Contact Core Logger – Acceptance testing is underway except for LIMS integration. Completion is anticipated on January 10th, 2008.
Reflectance spectroscopy - Project is complete. (Note that the integration of the spectrometer into the split core contact core logger is part of that project.)
Split Core Measurement Gantry – Due to personnel resource constraints and this project being lower priority than other loggers, progress has been minimal. The completion date is to be determined in January 2008.
Carbon/Carbonate and Gas Analysis
CHNS Analyzer – Project complete.
RockEval Replacement - Project complete.
TOC Analyzer – Project complete.
Coulometer – Project complete.
GC3 – Project complete.
Natural Gas Analyzer – Project complete.
GC2 – Project complete.
GC MSD – Project complete.
Elemental, XRD and Pore Water Analysis
Inductively-Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer Refurbishment – Acceptance testing has been completed; acceptance report is pending.
Discrete Analyzer – Project complete.
Ion Chromatograph – Project complete.
Auto Titrator – Project complete.
Magnetics and Physical Properties Laboratory
Moisture and Density - Acceptance testing has begun. Completion of the shore based testing is anticipated on January 15th, 2008.
Superconducting Magnetometer Upgrade – Land based work is complete. Full acceptance of the system as a functioning SRM cannot be done until the system is cryo-cooled in place on the vessel. This is anticipated on April 1st, 2008.
Thermal Conductivity Meter – Project complete.
Core Orientation Tool - The Flex IT survey tools are in hand and on-site training has been completed. Potential issues with running gear are being explored; the running gear order has been issued. Project completion is anticipated on January 31st.
1.2.2.3 Science Support and Recreational Systems
Science Support and Recreational Systems
Logistical, Recreational, and Safety Systems – Project complete.
General Curation Equipment
General Curation - Sample bins have been received. The Singapore team is reviewing the space available for the core bench; that project to be completed in Singapore under PMO coordination. Enclosures for the tile saw are being built. Completion is anticipated on January 15th.
Core Description – Project complete.
Specialized Curation Equipment
D-Tube Palletization – Project complete.
Core splitter - The new core splitter is being produced and will be completed in stages. The machinist has the drawings, and parts are being purchased or machined. These parts will later be assembled and tested. The existing trough is being strengthened and straightened. Replacement rails for the old system have been purchased and received. Completion is anticipated on March 15th, 2008.
Microbiology and Chemistry Sample Preparation
General Lab Equipment – Project complete.
Gas Delivery and Generation System - Gas manifolds have been purchased but vendor has not delivered yet. The additional tubing requested by the shipyard in Singapore has been received. Completion is anticipated on January 15th, 2008.
Paleontology and Thin Section
Paleontology and Thin Section – Complete except for training by the vendor. Completion is anticipated on February 10th, 2008.
Underway Geophysics
Seismic Sound Source System - Parts have been ordered to build the firing box but are not yet received from the vendor. The firing box will be completed in Singapore. Completion is anticipated on January 15th.
Streamer Deployment System – The seismic crane has been received and shipped to Singapore. The seismic deployment crane’s hydraulic power unit has been received in Singapore.
Bathymetry Measurements – Project complete.
Navigation – Project complete.
Furniture
Lab Furniture Storage Zero Lift - Project complete.
Laboratory Furniture Storage – Project complete.
Laboratory Office Furniture Office - Project complete.
Laboratory Office Furniture Laboratory - Project complete.
Laboratory Office Misc. – Building of the AV cabinet continues with a local vendor. Purchasing of additional misc. pieces (trash cans, white boards, etc.) for the laboratories and offices continues. Completion is anticipated on January 31st.
Image Management Lab - Project complete.
Libraries – Project complete.
1.2.2.4 Computer and Network Systems
Computing and Data Processing
Servers – Project is complete.
Desktop Workstations - Creation of a standardized desktop configuration for both Windows and Macintosh workstations are complete. Most material has been received but some software and one item of hardware are still outstanding. Testing and acceptance is underway. Completion is anticipated on January 31st, 2008.
Storage Subsystems – Project complete.
Printing, Plotting and Scanning – Project complete.
Data Network
Full-time WAN/PSTN connections via VSAT – Project complete.
Secure, Flexible, and Expandable Network - Cable management supplies have been received but a few cable assemblies have not yet been received. Coordination with Singapore on the ship network configuration resulted in purchase of an additional network switch. Testing and acceptance is underway. Completion is anticipated on January 31st, 2008.
Remote Access and Visualization/Collaboration
Video Information Distribution System - Interoperability with shipboard security video system is being studied. Fine-tuning of video encoding was completed.
The Vbrick portal service is running and available. Questions remain about shipboard video source information and location. Most of the small monitors have been received but there was some damage in shipment and the vendor is replacing. The large monitors have shipped but not yet received. Mounting hardware for monitors and IP receivers have been received. Testing is underway. Completion is anticipated on January 31st, 2008.
Digital Media Management System
Digital Media Management – Project complete.
1.2.2.5 TAMU Coring System
Drill Pipe and Tubulars
5” Drill Pipe (Coring String) – VAM Drilling (Omsco) has completed the fabrication of 280 joints and external coating has been completed by Sermatech. The pipe is being prepared for shipping to Singapore (Batam) for internal zinc coating application by Tubescope. Delivery of internal and external coated drill pipe to Singapore is now estimated to be March 30th, 2008. After shipping the pipe should be back in the USA by May 18th, 2008. John Boyd will provide the coating application oversight in Singapore.
Coring String Pup Joints - Houston Downhole is fabricating 5” and 5-1/2” drill pipe pup joints. Delivery is expected on January 4th, 2008, for 5” and January 18th, 2008, for 5-1/2”.
Coring String Drill Collars - Houston Downhole is fabricating drill collars. Delivery is expected on January 18th, 2008.
5-1/2” Drill Pipe – Grant-Prideco has fabricated 134 joints of 5-1/2” Z-140 drill pipe with 5-1/2” IF connections. However, because 2 additional cracks were found in pin tool joints (under tong space area on the ID) acceptance of this pipe has been deferred pending a meeting with GP and HAI to discuss a potential additional final inspection. External aluminum coating remains scheduled at Sermatec (Houston) in early January and the pipe will then be shipped to Singapore (Batam) for internal zinc coating application by Tubescope.
Completion of the internal coating is now estimated to be April 15th, 2008.
Pipe should be in Singapore ready to load by April 22nd, 2008. Note the 5-1/2” drill pipe is not required for phase II operations but plans are to put it aboard in the riser hold during the Loyang port call in Singapore. John Boyd will provide coating application oversight in Houston and Singapore. Steve Howard from HAI continues to provide oversight of the drill pipe fabrication process.
6-5/8” Drill Pipe (Support/Large Log String) - Purchase of 6-5/8” handling equipment remains on hold pending result of the overall project financial outcome. HAI has completed the development of a specification for 6-5/8” drill pipe and associated pup joints. Stress Engineering has made good progress on reworking the drill string stress and over pull allowance program to accommodate 6-5/8” drill pipe as a structural element. A draft spreadsheet has been completed for review by operations personnel.
Completion is anticipated on January 31st, 2008, except for the infrastructure which remains on hold.
Drilling and Coring Systems
Outer Barrel Coring Components – Project complete.
Downhole Drilling Tools – Project complete.
New Straddle Packer System – Project complete.
Non-magnetic “Wireline” Coring Equipment – Project complete.
Wireline Core Barrel Components - All items have been received except for APC piston rods and XCB cutting shoes which will likely be received by January 18th, 2008.
Passive Heave Compensator - Maritime Hydraulic (MH), Canada has completed the dimensional/chrome thickness inspection of the PHC cylinders. It appears that more material will have to be removed for clean up than originally planned. Cylinders are currently scheduled for honing to begin on January 3rd, 2008. Refurbishment should be completed and cylinders returned to Singapore no later than March 7th, 2008.
1.2.2.6 LDEO Science Support
Work continued on the areas of design systems (logging equipment, lab and IT), support documentation, and training.
Purchase Systems
Project is complete.
Design Systems
The design systems control account is subdivided into design lab systems, logging systems, and IT systems.
Lab Systems Design – Project complete.
Design Logging Systems - Testing of the wireline heave compensator continued and consisted of series of static and dynamic tests for assessing the performance of the system and individual components.
The static testing consisted of measuring the travel distance of the weight while injecting a known input. Starting from the zero position (0 VDC) then increasing the signal to +1 meter (1 VDC) and measuring the displacement of the weight. This procedure was repeated for +/-1, +/-2 and +/-3 meter heave. The results from these tests allowed us to verify the symmetry around the zero position and the relationship between the position sensor reading and the measured weight position. Results show a correlation of 0.998 between the position sensor and measured weight position. These results were considered a success.
The dynamic tests consisted of injecting a simulated heave signal and measuring the weight displacement. During these tests, adjustments to software parameters continued, improving system reliability, performance, and an increased understanding of the algorithms. A second test was attempted using the motion reference unit (MRU) as the heave input but this test was unsuccessful because MRU is very sensitive to rotational movement that exceeds the maximum velocity defined in the MRU algorithms. The testing rig up would not allow the MRU to zero itself and sync with the system. The results from this test also suggest that this problem can be resolved by using a GPS input to the MRU. The MRU was sent to the vendor for checking its calibration and ensuring proper functionality. In addition, LDEO asked Schlumberger to check on the feasibility of designing a new testing rig for additional tests. The functionality of the MRU by either a certifiable calibration test including results or a complete system check with a new test rig is considered as the last step before Schlumberger’s acceptance from Deep Down.
Design IT Systems – Project complete.
Train Staff
All training has been finalized at this stage and the remaining training sessions will conclude at the end of the sea trials period after all new infrastructure is in place, tested, and accepted.
Support Documents
All documentation preparation for this phase is complete. Final versions of all new SODV documentation will be completed at the end of sea trials period after all new infrastructure is in place, tested, and accepted.
1.2.2 Deploy Science System
Deployment planning continues to track the shipyard completion schedule and subsequent adjustment to operational planning. Another major deployment plan update is planned for January.
1.2.3.1 Package, Ship and Warehouse Science System
Twenty four containers of science furniture, equipment and supplies have been received in Singapore. Another thirteen are in transit.
1.2.3.2 Install & Commission Science Systems
Plans are in progress to increase technical staffing in Singapore to prepare for deployment activities. “As built” drawings are being prepared as the shipyard completes science spaces. These will be compared against the science furniture and equipment to identify interferences as early as possible. Installation of fixed foundations for science equipment has begun.
1.2.3.3 Commission Logging System
Commission work is on hold based on the shift in the shipyard schedule. Activities will commence once equipment is shipped to Singapore and will continue until the culmination of sea trials.
1.3 Convert SODV
1.3.1 ODL Project Management
ODL is still looking for an accommodations inspector as of the end of the month.
1.3.2 Rig Costs
There are no further rig costs for SODV since operations will fund all future rig costs per NSF direction.
1.3.3 Engineering and Design
ODL project team has issued 69 engineering change proposals (ECP) to update shipyard work scopes to date. These engineering change proposals, with details, are available in OPTIX.
Detailed design continues by shipyard with ODL / TAMU support.
· Focus continues on resolving outfitting interferences in the field.
· Daily war room meetings are being held with JSL engineering, production and ODL engineering to streamline engineering efforts into production.
· JSL drawings and procurement specifications are being reviewed including:
o Joiner wall construction
o Mechanical systems
o Placement of electrical power, network drops
o Resolution of design clashes
· Technical clarifications and ECP are being developed.
· Inter-discipline communication is being facilitated.
· Daily on-site inspections of Science Facility construction are being performed.
· The shipyard production staffs’ understanding of the design requirements is being facilitated. Mark-ups are being verified prior to final welding/cutting of penetrations, foundations, joiner wall framing, etc. to minimize rework and speed production.
· Major engineering issues in the science facilities include:
o Overhead clearances in IT Data Center and office.
o Multi-cable transits (MCTs) running through the Gym.
o Overhead clearances on various stairs throughout labs and accommodations.
o Cabling support trays and penetrations for Logging and RIS.
1.3.4 Reserved
1.3.5 Reserved
1.3.6 Vessel Conversion Activity
Summary - Work is still outstanding on one Bridging Agreement item. Three of the remaining items were cleared this month. Shipyard activity under the shipyard contract continues at a high level. The vessel began the month of December at the West Quay berth and remained there the entire month of December. The ODL crew has completed 80% of their project work and remains on schedule to complete the remainder of their project work in conjunction with the current shipyard plan. Major activities this month include outfitting between frames 19-55, the installation of the Schlumberger Deck and the installation of the anchor windlass. Electrical re-wiring of the thruster modules by the ship’s crew is nearly complete. Work continued on re-outfitting the drill floor and derrick and other miscellaneous crew projects.
Detailed Activities in December:
Bridging Contract Work
· Hatches – The deck hatch reinstatement is continuing. The drawing of compressor room hatch is being prepared by JSL to submit for approval by ABS. The riser hold hatch still requires gasket repair and is not closing completely. The aft riser hold small hatch has been removed for blasting and painting.
· Mud Pit and Void – Mud pit steel repairs have been completed. Air testing of the void space is complete.
· Piping – Completed reinstatement of fuel oil, compressed air and CO2 piping in Ships Service Generator room.
· Thrusters – Foundation work is complete. The only remaining item is to install the Thruster caps.
Main Project Work Scope Activities at Jurong Shipyard Site
· Bulwarks - Steelwork continues on the port and starboard bulwarks.
· Incinerators Room - Outfitting of the room continues. Incinerators and foundations have been installed.
· Structure and Room for Emergency Generator - Construction is complete except for the access left to install the emergency generator. Outfitting of the room continues prior to painting.
· Outfitting Frame 19-55 – Installation of ducting, plumbing, cable trays, wiring, etc. continues in the accommodations and labs.
· Schlumberger Platform – The platform has been installed and weld out is in progress.
· New Superstructure – Steel work is essentially complete except for inspection.
· Midship Storerooms and Lockers – Midship storerooms and lockers are structurally complete. JSL relocated a locker bulkhead which was incorrectly positioned. Waiting on doors. Outfitting will continue into January.
· Grey Water Tanks – The gray water tank repairs are complete.
· Clean/Blast/ Paint Drill Water and Ballast Tanks – Continues in progress.
· Fuel Tanks - Welding in bilge piping penetrations in #3 port and starboard fuel oil tanks is complete. Modifications to the fuel system are ongoing in the engine room and propulsion room as per shipyard scope.
· Configuring Forward Machinery Manifolds - Ballast, Drill water and fuel oil manifolds installation continues in forward machinery room.
· Outfitting - BFE procurement still in progress for outfitting. Doors and windows and some insulation.
· Elevator - The elevator car has been assembled.
· HVAC system - Air handling units continue to be progressively installed. Installation of duct penetrations and duct hangers also continues.
· Replace Deck Fans - Engineering and spigot fabrication continues. Demolition is proceeding in the ODL warehouse and Underway Lab to install new fans.
· Replacement of Ducting – Installation of specific areas have been completed and await inspection by owner. Installation continues in the cement pump room and mud pump room.
· Fire main piping - Piping is underway in new spaces.
Variation Work Scope Activities
· Lower Guide Horn Repair – Due to misalignment the doors are not completely closing but will now completely open. Troubleshooting continues on this issue.
Crew Work
· Priming and painting drill floor and wind walls after repair / replacement of steel continues.
· Fantail deck repairs complete but await inspection.
· Completed installing sounding tube and plugs for tanks.
· Gray water tank level sensor, piping and tubing has been installed.
· All propulsion motors are in place, aligned and motor couplings are being installed. The shipyard has drilled and installed taper pin holes for port side propulsion reduction gear. Fitting and installing port shaft propulsion cooling piping.
· Electrical welder is working on #1, #2, and #3 Thruster junction boxes, electrical MCT's and junction boxes in P-tanks and cable way trays.
· Electricians began rewiring #1, #2 and #3 thruster pods. Further work is waiting on the shipyard to complete thruster cable runs to junction boxes to complete terminations. (in progress)
· Installing exterior piping and hosing on thruster pods.
· Demolition of old engine control panels and installation of new panels for engines 1,2,4,5,6,7 is underway.
· Installed the DMS interface boxes at engines #6 and #7 that were removed for work on bulkhead Frame 115.
· Derrick rewiring is in progress; pulling cable for lights and rig equipment.
· Completed overhauling low pressure valves in mud system. Six valves are waiting on parts.
· Top drive #2 motor and gear unit inspected and repairs made to the motor and oil pump. Reassembly continues at NOV.
· X-ray of weld on one of the PHC Air Stainless Steel 4" Standpipes failed for the second time. The section of pipe will be cut out and replaced with two additional welds.
· Replacing Iron Roughneck rails on the drill floor.
· Iron Roughneck is now 90% completed at NOV. Reverse tilt function modification is complete. Final assembly and testing is ongoing.
· One drill floor tugger remains to be installed; all others are complete and operating.
· Steel replacement on rig floor wind walls is complete but still need to be primed and painted.
· Column trolley head assemblies for VMW pipe racker have been removed for hydroblasting and repair, prior to installation of new Braden hydraulic winches
· Demolition and installation of new 2” HP cement lines from the Haliburton unit to the rig floor is underway.
· Dual elevator handling system structural repairs are complete. Unit has been shipped to NOV for reassembly of new cylinders and controls. Currently waiting on one part.
· Misalignment with the guidehorn is still an ongoing issue. The LGH locking pin has been repaired and both pins reinstalled. Remedial work was required to allow the moon pool doors to completely open. Work is still ongoing to remedy the misalignment preventing complete closure and locking.
· Electricians are pulling cables in the derrick for top drive installation.
· The VIT winch overhaul is complete and tested, then stored at the Tuas warehouse.
· Third party, Ocean Master, continues installing insulation in steering gear flat and ship’s service generator room.
· The auxiliary cooling water piping to the oil water separator back flushing connection, new strainer, reducing valve and gauge has been installed.
· The oil water separator 3-way valve and flow meter have been installed.
· New drain lines and drain funnels for the bilge holding tank in the motor room have been installed.
1.4 Manage HSE
1.4.1 Reserved
1.4.2 Safety Audit
No activity this month.
1.4.3 Reserved
1.5 Pre-Operational Evaluation
No activity to report. This evaluation remains unfunded.
Significant Issues and Risks:
Shipyard Schedule
Overall Risk – High
Probability – Near Certainty
Impact – Critical Path and Cost
Description – Every month of delay in the SODV conversion schedule is costly to the program, approximately $1.5M. The shipyard efforts have been less than planned resulting in schedule slippage in the delivery of the vessel from the shipyard until March 31st, 2008. But there are still many obstacles to completing the conversion work in the shipyard even by that date including remaining BFE material deliveries and the availability of shipyard resources in QA/QC, engineering and production that could affect the schedule further. Shipyard engineering, production and OA/QC issues continue impacting shipyard progress. Further schedule slippage is near certainty.
Mitigation – The ODL/TAMRF/TAMU on-site team has a strong presence at the shipyard and a good working relationship with JSL. The on-site team continues a daily war room meeting with JSL to track progress and manage issues that arise. Progress is being tracked against the planned schedule and EVMS reporting is in place. ODL has been aggressive with the shipyard on correcting the engineering, production and QA/QC issues. Transocean headquarters management continues weekly conference calls with shipyard senior management to keep the pressure on. The change order approval process allows very quick resolution of shipyard change orders.
Shipyard Cost Growth
Overall Risk – Moderate
Probability - Probable
Impact – Up to $2M
Description – There are quite a few areas for potential cost growth during the conversion effort including the following:
· When an older vessel is opened up for repair, usually more repair work is found than could be determined in advance. Fortunately repair work has been less than budgeted to date.
· Experience has shown that many shipyards will submit claims against the customer for compensation. The SODV program is likely to see at least some shipyard claims especially since the shipyard clearly underestimated the labor required in their bid. Sources for delay and disruption claims include owner responsible issues that arise during construction and science system installation while the shipyard is still actively working on the vessel.
· Original engineering package issues or inconsistencies and any further issues discovered during construction require engineering change proposals (ECPs) usually at some additional cost.
Mitigation – The following actions are underway:
· On site personnel have been indoctrinated in and are practicing claims avoidance techniques including minimizing schedule impact on the shipyard’s efforts as well as documentation of progress and status.
· The on-site staff continues daily meetings with the shipyard management to coordinate efforts and resolve issues.
· The change order process minimizes the time needed for approval of shipyard changes.
· Contingency funds are being maintained for cost growth and claims.
Science Equipment Test and Integration Schedule
Overall Risk – Moderate
Probability - Likely
Impact – Critical Path
Description – Land based science system testing (i.e. mechanical, software, network interfaces, etc.) is underway and being completed prior to shipment to Singapore to ensure system viability and adherence to the acceptance criteria. Once in Singapore the systems will be installed on the vessel, with the period in Singapore and the transit to the initial expedition port of call used to reestablish each system and complete evaluations to ensure the acceptance criteria have been achieved. Project delays from equipment development, shipping, ship space conversion, and distributed services at the shipyard (such as a/c) may impact the schedule. Mitigation – Progress against the schedule is being tracked at the work package level and is documented in the EVMS system. At present, there are some schedule issues in certain science equipment development, test, or integration efforts. However the few that could impact the critical path at this point in time can be mitigated with air freight.
Milestones:
The next major milestone is the completion of steelwork on January 10th.
Meetings:
Held:
Singapore Review December 2-3, 2007
Conversion Management Team Conference Call January 8, 2007
Scheduled:
Singapore Review January 22-23, 2008
Conversion Management Team Conference Call February 13, 2008
Singapore Review March 10-11, 2008
Program Officer (J. Walter) Comments:
