Keppel FELS’s SSDT has established a proven track record for strong operational performance over the past 15 years.

Keppel FELS Ltd (Keppel FELS), the world’s leading designer and builder of offshore rigs, has received top awards at the Institution of Engineers Singapore (IES) Prestigious Engineering Achievement Awards 2009 for its environmentally-friendly offshore rig designs.

The KFELS Semi Submersible Drilling Tender (SSDT) and the KFELS B Class jackup, were singled out for their unique features, which have contributed significantly to sustainable operations, as well as the safety and well-being of rig crew.

Mr Tong Chong Heong, CEO of Keppel Offshore & Marine, said, "Trendsetting drilling operators worldwide are seeking more sustainable means of mining oil and gas. With our own rig designs, we have the flexibility to build in unique features to reduce environmental impact, while addressing technological changes in drilling equipment and processes.

"We are very honoured that our proven KFELS SSDT and KFELS B Class rig designs have been reckoned among the greenest engineering projects by IES.”

Keppel FELS’s SSDT has a very successful and consistent operational performance history and impeccable Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) indices and has won the Shell Rig Award in 2004 and 2006.

It has revolutionised the way in which drilling tenders operate, allowing them to be deployed next to deepwater floating platforms for the first time.

It is also the first drilling tender in the world to have worked in Deepwater Development Projects alongside a Tension leg platform in West Seno and a Spar in Kikeh Field. Similarly, the KFELS B Class jackup has a proven track record for global operations and is designed for maximum uptime with reduced emissions and discharges.

This design features Keppel’s fully-automated, high capacity rack and pinion elevating technology and a self-positioning fixation system, and employs the latest technology innovation for safe operations. To date, 27 KFELS B Class jackup rigs have entered the global market.

"Looking ahead, we are focused on fostering our technology foresight capabilities to develop products that will address the future needs of drilling companies and operators.

"We will also continue to improve upon our current designs to push the envelope for sustainable offshore exploration and production operations.” Mr Tong added.

Keppel FELS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Keppel Corporation, through Keppel Offshore & Marine (Keppel O&M), a leader in offshore rigs, shiprepair and conversion and specialised shipbuilding. Keppel O&M’s near market, near customer strategy is bolstered by a global network of 20 yards and offices in the Asia Pacific, Gulf of Mexico, Brazil, the Caspian Sea, Middle East and the North Sea regions. Integrating the experience and expertise of its yards worldwide, the group aims to be the provider of choice and partner for solutions for the offshore and marine industry.