Vallourec, world leader in premium tubular solutions, announced the provision of seamless linepipe including coating and welding services for the Greater Stella Project in the North Sea. The 96 km of coated linepipe is due to be delivered to Technip, who has been awarded the EPC contract, in the first quarter of 2013.

The Greater Stella Area, which is operated by Ithaca Energy, is located in the central North Sea Block 30/06a, approximately 238km south east of Peterhead and 17km from the UK-Norway median line. Vallourec’s linepipe will be installed in a water depth of approximately 85 meters. The premium pipes will be used for oil and gas export lines. To protect them from corrosion and "waxing," Vallourec will provide the pipes with a three layer polypropylene (3LPP) coating.

Dominique Richardot, managing director of Vallourec’s Pipe Project and SURF activities, said, "As our largest contract to date with Technip, this project represents the continuation and development of our successful business relationship. Our clients expect highly efficient, innovative and safe performances for complex applications and our answer to their requirements is the provision of integrated solutions - premium pipes with a meaningful comprehensive service package."

Vallourec, subsidiary Serimax, an international welding company, has also been contracted to perform the welding works at Technip’s Spoolbase in Evanton, UK. The scope of work includes welding of 62.6 km of 10" gas export lines and 33.5 km of 10" oil export lines.

Vallourec’s involvement in several parts of this North Sea project illustrates the Group’s position as a partner of choice for offshore projects and its ability to provide clients with the most premium and secure solutions throughout the supply chain, as well as with the local services needed to ensure the successful development of complex projects.