Underwater welding on oil rigs is a highly specialized and critical task that requires advanced skills and training. It is often referred to as hyperbaric welding, which is performed at elevated pressures, usually underwater. The two types of hyperbaric welds are dry and wet. Underwater welding on oil rigs is a dangerous job that requires extensive training and experience, and the pay is high.
Understanding Hyperbaric Welding
Hyperbaric welding is the process of welding at elevated pressures, typically underwater. There are two main types of hyperbaric welding:
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Dry Welding: This is performed when the structure being welded is enclosed in a chamber filled with pressurized gas. The welder and the electrode are not exposed to water, making the process more controlled and safer.
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Wet Welding: This is performed when the welder and the electrode are both exposed to water. It is more challenging and risky but is often necessary when dealing with certain structures.
Wet welding requires specialized electrodes and equipment, and the welding cable is installed with a heavy-duty isolation switch, which is controlled by a surface operator. The welder and surface operator work together to make and break contact.
Risks and Challenges of Underwater Welding on Oil Rigs
Image source: MTCC Underwater Welding Service
Underwater welding on oil rigs is a dangerous job that requires extensive training and experience. The risks include:
- Drowning: The welder is submerged in water, and the risk of drowning is ever-present.
- Explosions: The high-pressure environment and the use of flammable gases can lead to explosions.
- Electric Shock: The welding equipment operates at high voltages, and the risk of electric shock is significant.
- Decompression Sickness/Illness: The rapid changes in pressure can lead to decompression sickness, which can be life-threatening.
- Ear/Lung/Nose Damage: The high-pressure environment can cause damage to the welder’s ears, lungs, and nose.
- Marine Wildlife: The welder may encounter dangerous marine life, such as sharks or eels, while working underwater.
The depth at which people usually weld commercially is around the 300m mark, and the deepest recorded commercial dive is around the 534m mark.
Compensation and Work Schedules
The pay for underwater welding on oil rigs is high, with $200 per hour being the standard rate for every hour underwater. Experienced welders on board can easily make six figures.
Time runs differently on oil rigs, with most crew members working 12-hour shifts for two weeks straight, followed by two weeks off on the mainland.
Becoming an Oil Rig Welder
To become an oil rig welder, one must have the right skills and comprehensive training. Most oil rig welders have a high school degree, and a two-year program is essential. A welding certification is required upon completion, and oil rig welders must know how to function on an oil rig, including:
- Fixing electrical systems
- Repairing diesel engines
- Maintaining hydraulic systems
- Dealing with welding equipment
The training program should cover the following topics:
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Welding Techniques: Proficiency in various welding techniques, such as SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding), and FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding), is essential.
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Underwater Welding: Specialized training in underwater welding, including the use of specialized equipment and techniques, is crucial.
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Hyperbaric Chamber Operations: Understanding the operation and safety protocols of hyperbaric chambers is necessary for dry welding.
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Decompression Procedures: Mastering decompression procedures to prevent decompression sickness is vital.
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Oil Rig Systems: Comprehensive knowledge of oil rig systems, including electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic components, is required.
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Safety Protocols: Thorough training in safety protocols, emergency procedures, and risk management is essential.
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Diving Certification: A diving certification, such as SCUBA or commercial diving, is often required for underwater welding on oil rigs.
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Physical Fitness: Maintaining a high level of physical fitness is crucial due to the demanding nature of the job.
In addition to the technical skills, oil rig welders must also possess strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team.
Conclusion
Underwater welding on oil rigs is a highly specialized and critical task that requires advanced skills and training. It is a dangerous job that requires extensive training and experience, and the pay is high. To become an oil rig welder, one must have the right skills and comprehensive training, including a welding certification and the ability to function on an oil rig.
References:
– One of the Most Dangerous Jobs: Underwater Welding
– What It’s Really Like to Weld on an Oil Rig
– What is an Oil Rig Welder? How to Become One?
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