Backdrop & Context
Brazil’s Búzios field, located off the coast of Rio deJaneiro, is one of the world’s largest ultra-deepwater oil reserves and acritical asset in Petrobras’ pre-salt portfolio. As Brazil aggressively expandsits offshore production capacity, with five new platforms expected by 2028, globalsuppliers of high-performance subsea infrastructure are vying for a stake inthe region’s growing energy market.
In this context, Vallourec, a global leader inseamless tubular technologies, has strengthened its position in Brazil bysecuring a major contract with Allseas, a key player in offshorepipeline installation, for the Búzios 10 development phase.
Who’s Involved?
The deal was announced on April 22, 2025, by Vallourec’sheadquarters in Meudon, France. It involves:
Philippe Guillemot,Chairman and CEO of Vallourec, stated:
“This contract reinforces our strategic positioning inBrazil, one of our key markets for complex offshore projects. It also serves aslegacy to our ability to deliver premium tubular solutions, fully manufacturedin Brazil.”
The project confirms the success of Vallourec’s long-termstrategy to modernize its industrial operations and enhance its responsivenessto demanding deepwater projects.
Contract Scope and Technical Specifications
The primary scope of the contract includes the supply of approximately18,000 metric tons of subsea seamless premium carbon steel line pipes,specifically for risers and flowlines, critical components intransporting oil and gas from the seabed to production facilities.
In addition, the agreement includes an optionalextension of nearly 5,000 metric tons, demonstrating the potential forfuture expansion as the Búzios development progresses.
Digital Integration with Pipe Navigator
A standout feature of the contract is the integration of Vallourec’sPipe Navigator, a centralized digital portal designed to offerclients real-time access to all relevant documentation, project data, andanalysis. This platform enhances transparency and traceability across thesupply chain, helping clients manage technical specifications, qualitycertifications, and logistics more efficiently.
The tool embodies the ongoing digital transformation ofindustrial manufacturing, streamlining collaboration between Vallourec and itscustomers on complex offshore developments.
Local Manufacturing for Sustainability andContent
All production for the Búzios 10 contract will be carriedout at Vallourec’s Jeceaba facility in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Thisensures high local content compliance, an essential criterion for majoroil and gas projects in Brazil, and contributes to a reduced carbonfootprint by minimizing international logistics.
Vallourec’s Jeceaba mill is a state-of-the-artmanufacturing site known for its advanced metallurgy, rigorous qualitystandards, and integration of sustainable practices.
Búzios Field: A Strategic Energy Asset
The Búzios field is part of Brazil’s pre-salt polygon andplays a pivotal role in the country’s oil production growth. Operated byPetrobras, the field is set to see a significant expansion, with five newfloating production units slated for deployment by 2028.
As Brazil seeks to meet global energy demand whilemaintaining regulatory and environmental commitments, projects like Búzios 10represent a convergence of innovation, scale, and sustainability.
Vallourec’s Positioning in Brazil and Beyond
With a long-standing presence in Brazil, Vallourec haspositioned itself as a top-tier supplier for complex offshore and onshoretubular solutions. This latest contract underscores the company’s successfulinvestment over the last three years to upgrade its industrial capabilities andalign with evolving customer demands.
It also highlights Vallourec’s broader ambitions to play acentral role in the energy transition by supporting projects that prioritizeefficiency, digitalization, and low-carbon manufacturing.
Key Takeaways:
