Kulluk

Kulluk is a type of mobile offshore drilling unit. It is designed to operate in harsh Arctic conditions, capable of drilling in ice-covered waters. The kulluk is a donut-shaped, double-hulled vessel that is ballasted with water to provide stability and a low center of gravity. This design allows it to withstand the forces of ice and extreme weather.

The hull of a kulluk is typically around 260 feet in diameter and can drill in water depths of up to 100 feet. It is equipped with a derrick and drilling equipment, as well as living quarters for the crew. The unit is towed to its location and then anchored in place. It can also be submerged slightly to increase stability in rough seas.

Kulluks were developed by the Shell Oil Company in the early 1980s for exploration in the Beaufort Sea. The primary advantage of the kulluk design is its ability to operate year-round in Arctic environments where traditional offshore platforms would be shut down due to ice. This allowed for extended exploration and drilling seasons.

While the kulluk design offers advantages in ice-prone regions, it also presents challenges. Its mobility is limited once deployed, and maneuvering in severe ice conditions requires careful planning and execution. The environmental risks associated with operating in the Arctic are also a significant consideration. The kulluk concept represents a specialized approach to offshore drilling in extreme environments, balancing operational capabilities with inherent environmental and logistical complexities.