The joints are an integral part of a high-pressure (up to 10,00 psi), gas, mono-bore work-over riser system; to be used in high-fatigue, deepwater application worldwide.

The work-over riser connector is designed to meet a range of static and fatigue stresses on a par with those of TLE connectors. All the design features of the TLE are present, together with a number of additional capabilities: the connector can be machined directly onto upset riser pipe, with the facility to perform "re-cuts" of service. The interface profile between pin and box has been improved to allow the full combined pin/box thickness to be mobilised when resisting riser internal pressure.

These enhancements are the subject of current patent applications.

The multi-million-pound contract is part of Kongsberg's frame agreement with Statoil for subsea production systems. Oil States' scope of work included design, manufacture and testing of the Merlin connector and the associated handling and installation tooling for the riser joint. The photos were taken during the stack-up testing which was a fundamental part of the comprehensive test verification program. The work-over riser system's multi-usage operational and functional requirements needed innovation design from a team whose track record includes the EPC contract for the world's first titanium drilling risers.

The 8 5/8" work-over riser joint, landed on gimballed spider, pin up, showing removal of external pick-up tool. Both spider and pick-up tool were designed and manufactured by Oil States.

Post make-up, gas pressure test, proving integrity of Merlin integral metal seals. The connector make-up tool, shown in position (yellow and blue), was designed and manufactured by Oil States.