An offshore drilling platform developed by Taiyuan Heavy Industry Co (TYHI) was launched on Dec 26 at a port in Tianjin, marking a breakthrough for Shanxi in marine engineering.

The platform applies to the muddy and sandy seabed with a working depth of 400 feet (121.92 meters) and drilling capability down to 9,000 meters. The effective area of deck is 3,700 square meters and the platform is capable of carrying a load of 3,900 tons. Compared to other mobile drilling platforms of the same type, it is more adaptable, self-sufficient and can carry variable loads.

TYHI adopted heavy-load trucks to facilitate and secure the launching of the platform, pioneering a new method of platform construction in China. The launch was completed on Dec 29.

The TZ-400 jack-up drilling platform independently invented by TYHI is used to develop offshore oil and gas. It is not only the first drilling platform in Shanxi, but also a key project supported by Tianjin Oceanic Administration to boost technology and the marine economy.

Founded in 1998, Taiyuan Heavy Industry Co is a listed heavy machinery manufacturer whose products include equipment for mining, electricity and the marine industries. The TZ-400 jack-up drilling platform is of great importance to the company in researching and developing marine products.

A bird's eye view of the offshore drilling platform manufactured by Taiyuan Heavy Industry Co, Tianjin, Dec 29 [Photo/China Daily]