Making a splash: A smarter way to tackle corrosion
Conditions in the splash zone remain some of the harshest in offshore operations, but new approaches to corrosion repair are helping redefine what’s possible.
Cover image: Shenzi team members celebrating on the platform following the safe and successful execution of the diverless epoxy sleeve installation.
The splash zone is the area of an offshore structure at the waterline, where waves continuously … well, splash.
This constant exposure to oxygen and salt creates aggressive conditions for steel, pushing protection methods to their limits.
For Charina Choochert, Principal Integrity Engineer, this challenge became an opportunity to do things differently.
Charina led the implementation of a diverless epoxy sleeve system at the Shenzi platform in the Gulf of America. The engineered solution repairs and protects critical piping without the need for underwater intervention, which can prove tricky.
The focus was on finding a solution that was not only effective, but safer and long term” Charina explained.
“This wasn’t just about fixing the problem; it was about improving how we approach these challenges moving forward.”
Designed in accordance with American Society of Mechanical Engineers standards, the system provides a durable barrier against further corrosion while reinforcing structural integrity.
The team also reduced safety risks by eliminating the need for diving operations.
Rope access technicians enabled precise execution in a complex environment, while careful planning ensured compliance with strict safety and regulatory requirements.
Principal Integrity Engineer Chad Cunningham said the challenge is part of a larger, ongoing focus. He has led a targeted corrosion reduction effort across the Gulf of America to drive new efficiencies and approaches to managing asset integrity.
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Technicians carry out splash-zone repair with the black diverless epoxy sleeve pictured.
The splash zone is one of the most demanding environments we deal with, where conventional coatings alone aren’t enough, and diver-less installation is highly sought after,” Chad noted.
The innovative approach is already gaining attention amongst industry peers keen on learning more about the solution.
And it’s Woodsiders being bold and making a splash who have brought them to life.
Credit goes to all the crews involved!
The project reflects a continued shift toward proactive, engineered solutions that improve safety, extend asset life and deliver long-term value, helping set a stronger standard for how offshore challenges are solved.
