In 1985, over 8,500 well service rigs were in operation in the United States. Since then, an estimated 5,000 of them have been removed from service and until recently few new rigs have been added. Quite simply, our industry had been working itself out of business.
To stop this, Key Energy Services has initiated the most aggressive and extensive refurbishment program in the industry. Our mission is to maintain the strength of our equipment so as to minimize risk, reduce downtime, and keep maintenance and operating costs low. The hub of this initiative is our 45,000 square foot Central Remanufacture Center (CRC), one of four similar facilities across the country.
Typically, we begin by stripping a rig down to its frame. Employing the most modern techniques, including x-ray, our mechanics evaluate the structural integrity of each component. If any piece does not meet specifications, it is either repaired or replaced. Upon completion, all rigs are fully inspected and certified before being returned to service. This can be accomplished quickly at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a new rig.
