Apache assesses Varanus damage

June 27, 2008
Apache Northwest Pty Ltd. has completed initial assessment of damage at its Varanus Island processing hub and set a timetable for restoring production.

Offshore staff

PERTH, Australia -- Apache Northwest Pty Ltd. has completed initial assessment of damage at its Varanus Island processing hub and set a timetable for restoring production.

"Our estimated timetable is to restore gross production at a rate of 180 MMcf/d of natural gas through the East Spar Joint Venture processing facilities by Aug. 15, ramping up to 315 MMcf/d in December as the Harriet Joint Venture facilities are returned to production," says Tim Wall, managing director.

The East Spar JV facilities are farthest from the rupture and sustained less damage. Export pipelines and associated valves, two compressors, instrumentation and control facilities are being repaired.

The Harriet JV processing facilities are adjacent to the rupture and will require significant repairs. Damage occurred at three sales gas compressors, the hot oil system, control system, and flare stacks. Evaluation of damage to several processing vessels is continuing.

06/26/2008