China Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore Ltd has completed sea trials for its ultra-deepwater drilling rig Blue Whale 2, which can mine both combustible ice and oil, in August.

Combustible ice, a particular kind of natural gas hydrate usually existing in seabed or tundra areas, is formed under strong pressure and low temperatures. It is regarded as a clean energy option with high energy density and huge reserves.

The producer said the functions of the Blue Whale 2 will be slightly different from the 118-meter-tall Blue Whale 1 oil exploration platform in terms of flammable ice drilling.

Designed to operate in water depths of 3,658 meters and drill to depths of up to 15,250 meters, the rig accommodates a dual activity drilling package.

Compared with other prototypes being used in the world, the Blue Whale series of products are 30 percent more efficient and 10 percent less energy consuming.