Vallourec Secures OCTG Contract from Shell for Orca Project in Brazil
French group Vallourec has announced the signing of a contract with Shell for the supply of tubes and services for offshore operations of the Orca project, according to a statement released on Sunday. Drilling, scheduled for April 2027, is expected to require between 12,000 and 15,000 tonnes of tubes for ten wells.
Details of the OCTG Agreement
The agreement focuses on the delivery of OCTG (Oil Country Tubular Goods) products for Shell’s offshore activities in the development of the Orca project, formerly known as Gato do Mato, the company indicates. The contract encompasses the entire OCTG scope with seamless tubes and premium VAM connections ranging from 4.5 inches to 18 inches in diameter. The supplied products include carbon and stainless steel tubes, as well as associated accessories, the statement specifies. The drilling plan involves the completion of ten wells, representing an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 tonnes of tubes.
Comprehensive Services Provided by Vallourec
Beyond supplying tubes, Vallourec will provide a complete set of services aimed at supporting Shell in optimizing its operational efficiency, according to the group. These services include engineering, inventory management, and tube preparation before shipment to drilling platforms. The arrangement also includes supervision of offshore operations and potential repairs upon the platforms’ return, adds the statement. These services will be deployed both onshore and offshore, the company specifies.
Significance of the New Contract
This new contract follows a recent order won by Vallourec for the supply of line pipe for the same offshore project, the group recalls. According to Philippe Guillemot, chairman of the board and CEO, this agreement demonstrates the group’s ability to support its clients across the entire value chain. The contract also confirms the performance of the premium VAM connections in Brazil as well as the expertise of Vallourec Tubular Services (VTS) in providing a wide range of services that complement the offer of premium seamless tubes, the executive indicates.
