Jack Up Rig

Jackup rigs are mobile, self-elevating drilling platforms equipped with legs that can be lowered to the ocean floor until a foundation is established to support the drilling platform. Once a foundation is established, the drilling platform is then jacked further up the legs so that the platform is above the highest expected waves. Generally, Jackup rigs are subject to a maximum water depth of approximately 350 to 400 feet according to leg length, while some Jackup rigs have hulls that allow them to drill in water depths as shallow as ten feet. The principle difference between Jackup rigs lies in the areas of leg length, seabedleg interaction (mat versus independent leg), and drilling mode capabilities (cantilever versus slot).
The global market for Jackup rigs witnessed a decline in 2009 for the first time since 2004, mainly as a result of the global economic crisis. The market registered a notable fall in the demand of Jackup rigs, in addition to a historic fall in the rigs utilization rate, reaching below 80%. The market in 2013 reported the highest orders ever in the history of Jackup building due to which market reported high day rates. Furthermore, the notably increasing offshore exploration and productivity operations across the globe are certain to fuel the growth of the worldwide Jackup rigs market in the years to come.
Factors like growing oil demand due to rising population rates, increasing E&P expenditures, and improving worldwide economic conditions are boosting the growth in Jack-up rig market. Despite the existence of various growth drivers, there are certain challenges faced by the industry including environmental concerns, offshore accidents, and depletion of oil reserves which can potentially hinder the growth of the industry.