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A Solar Plant Is Being Used To Produce Oil

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 07 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

A new project in development in Oman may be able to revolutionize the way that people think about solar energy and oil and gas. The Miraah project currently being developed will use solar power in order to produce oil, thereby reducing the amount of natural gas Oman residences will need to rely upon. Ideally, the Miraah project will be able to address many of the outstanding issues with solar technology related to energy capture, while creating a more efficient and effective method of oil production.

THE MIRAAH PROJECT IN OMAN

The Miraah project will be estimated to produce 6,000 tons of steam a day, all of which will be used to manually extract oil. The Miraah project is considered to be remarkable because of its sheer scope -- once completed in 2017 , the project will be one of the largest solar installations in the world. In order to extract oil through solar power, the environment has to both facilitate a large solar installation and be viable for oil production. Oman is a unique and unusual environment that is ideal for this type of development. Miraah itself is an installation of solar greenhouses that are used to create steam. It is hoped that it will be able to produce enough power for over 200,000 residences annually .

THE TRADITIONAL LIMITATIONS ON SOLAR POWER

Solar power has been traditionally limited by two factors: storage capacity and the cost of technology. Traditional solar cells are expensive to develop and purchase, limiting solar installations to extremely well-funded projects. Once the energy has been produced, it becomes a problem of storage. Either the energy must be immediately used within the grid, or it has to be stored in inefficient battery cells. Though solar power may be a renewable resource, these technology limitations have made it difficult to sustain.

THE ADVANTAGES OF USING OIL

Oil production through the use of solar power counters many of the limitations of traditional solar power. Rather than having to invest in costly technology, simpler methods such as steam greenhouses can be used. Rather than having to find ways to store or immediately use the excess energy, the energy produced by the steam is immediately used to recover oil, which is already a storage for energy. The oil itself will be advantageous over the natural gas currently being used in Oman, as oil is far more effective at being converted. The Miraah project should be able to reduce the costs of energy in addition to providing a new and innovative technique that other oil and gas companies may then seek to replicate.

The oil and gas industry will likely be watching the Miraah project closely, as it creates an excellent opportunity for those within the energy market. Where conditions are right for it, solar power can be used to more efficiently and affordably capture the oil that much of the world requires. The Miraah project will create a more efficient method of solar energy while also providing a highly efficient energy source.

Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP has always been dedicated to improving the efficiency and productivity of the oil and gas market. Through Heavy Iron Oilfild Services, businesses can procure only the best in new and used equipment and rentals. Contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today to learn more about their oilfield equipment .

Xodus Continues Innovative Multiphase Flow Research

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 31 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Xodus Group, an international group of energy consultants, has now completed the first stage of its multiphase flow research project , and is now entering the second. Multiphase flow is designed to research, simulate, and predict how dynamic forces act within the piping that is commonly used throughout the oil and gas industry, for a better understanding of the technology's potential improvements.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MULTIPHASE FLOW RESEARCH

The gas and oil industry is often required to pass materials of more than one type through a single pipeline. This can be chemicals, gases, water, and fluids, all of which will mix dynamically and could potentially cause issues through their inconsistent flow. Multiphase flow research is aimed at better understanding how these materials will interact with each other, to provide for better, faster, and easier transportation. The easier transportation can be achieved through multiphase pipeline, the faster energy can be distributed and the less costly distribution will be. Better distribution can even mean better worksite safety, as fewer pipelines may need to be repaired, maintained, or replaced.

THREE PHASE TESTING BY THE XODUS GROUP

The Xodus Group has plans for three phases of testing. The initial phase was designed to test a range of flow conditions, which included different builds of pipeline. These builds included vertical and horizontal u-bends as well as straight pipes. Data was taken to be analyzed regarding the flow of materials and mixed materials throughout these pipelines, which included pressure, distribution, speed, and more. Once this data had been collected, the Xodus Group began phase two, which involves procuring additional funding and testing different ranges of bending . Ultimately, the multiphase flow research project is designed to produce data. This data will become invaluable to companies throughout the oil and gas industry, and may be used to improve upon the products that are currently available. Phase three will likely include further testing.

IMPROVING BOTH PIPING AND PRODUCTION

The oil and gas industry is presently an industry that thrives and survives based purely on innovation. Many companies are looking into reducing inefficiencies and improving productivity through the use of technology. Pipeline technology is uniquely valuable because it is a technology that ideally will last a long time and generally doesn't include any moving parts. In other words, a substantive improvement in pipeline technology alone could save companies tremendous amounts of money in terms of purchasing and maintaining their pipeline systems. Better piping can also be used to make the distribution process faster and can improve upon production, as it will be easier to claim oil and gas through pressurized pipes.

The data recovered by the Xodus Group will undoubtedly prove to be valuable for companies looking to improve their pipelines and their equipment. By producing better simulations and analysis, oil and gas companies will be able to reduce inefficiency throughout their operations and therefore also reduce their overhead. Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP has long been dedicated towards innovation within the oil and gas industry. Through Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, you can procure the best in maintenance and repair services, designed to improve upon on-site maintenance and reduce costs. Contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today to learn more about their national products .

Study: 2/3 Of Natural Gas Comes From Fracking

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 24 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Reports have revealed that two-thirds of the natural gas in the United States are now coming from fracking , thanks to the extensive shale gas resources and the proliferation of unconventional drilling throughout the country. Natural gas is increasingly being used throughout the globe as a more environmentally-friendly alternative to goal, and the domestic energy markets are seeing a significant reduction in utility costs.

NATURAL GAS USE STEADILY INCREASING IN THE UNITED STATES

As natural gas has finally been able to be recovered in large volumes from the US shale gas deposits, energy companies have been seeking to find new ways to incorporate natural gas into energy. This includes more natural gas power plants and natural gas vehicles. The United States has been replacing coal power with natural gas power to great effect, but that has also required the building of natural gas pipelines. This is something that many environmental agencies staunchly oppose, even though they are the safest way to get gas to where it is needed.

REDUCING RELIANCE UPON COAL

In 2015, more energy was produced from natural gas than from coal for the first time in the United States. This is an extraordinarily important step for the country's energy future, as reducing a reliance upon coal is best for the environment. Natural gas can nearly half the amount of emissions that are produced through the use of coal and can produce energy at far cheaper rates. Other countries are also moving towards natural gas for this reason, which opens the door for potential exports once the United States oil and gas industry has been able to exceed domestic demand.

INCREASED REGULATIONS ON FRACKING MAY LEAD TO INDUSTRY SLOW DOWN

Amidst concerns regarding methane emissions potentially caused by fracking , the Environmental Protection Agency has been attempting to increase regulations on the industry and unconventional drilling . However, scientific studies have shown that the increases in methane emissions are far more likely to be caused by increased agriculture (specifically red meat) rather than emissions from fracking . Moreover, substituting natural gas for coal is far more beneficial to the environment, and has managed to reduce emissions more than other sustainable energy sources. Both wind and solar combined have not been able to reduce emissions as successfully as natural gas, which is a cheap and readily available resource. Despite the lack of evidence regarding environmental damage, regulations may still be invoked, which could cause substantial harm to the industry.

Natural gas is becoming incredibly important to both US consumers and the US energy market. Not only does the increase in natural gas production poise the United States to enter into the global market, but the decreased energy prices are steadily improving the domestic economy. But for natural gas to remain strong, environmental lobbyists cannot be allowed to over-regulate the market. Over-regulation could lead to increased energy prices and ultimately harm the nation as a whole.

Those within the oil and gas industry note that regulations have very little impact on the environmental safety of individual companies. Most companies already police themselves thoroughly regarding their environmental safety, as is in their best interest to protect it. Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP provides only the best in oil field equipment, designed to be safe, reliable, and avoid spills and leaks. Contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP today to learn more about their wide inventory of used, new, and reconditioned trucks .

New Technology Is Reducing Oil Transportation Costs

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 10 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

As the oil and gas industry has been hard at work decreasing its oil production costs, the oil transportation industry has been similarly engaged. The need for oil transportation on a national and global level has been increasing alongside the need for oil throughout the world. As oil production ramps up in the United States, the old oil transportation methods have become insufficient and inefficient for the new volume of materials that need to be moved. New technologies are presently being developed to make it easier and faster to transport oil, thereby reducing overhead for the industry as a whole.

NEW BIOSURFACTANT TECHNOLOGY LOWERS OPERATING COSTS

A new biosurfactant produced by the Mexican Oil Institute may be able to lower the viscosity of oil, making it easier for oil to be transported . The surfactants aid in the process of mixing oil with water, which will then create an amalgam that flows more smoothly along the lines. This will be beneficial any time oil needs to be moved through pipes, either on lengthy travel or from machine to machine. Without biosurfactants , oil and water do not mix, and the inconsistent viscosity of the fluid can actually create problems rather than solutions. The biosurfactants produced by the Mexican Oil Institute are still being tested and are one of many new technologies being developed.

TRANSPORTING OIL THROUGH NORTH AND SOUTH AMERICA

With the increased production of oil throughout Canada and the United States, the major problem that has developed is transporting it to the areas that need it. Even in the United States alone, new pipelines are being developed to take oil from state to state, and current methods of oil transportation are costly and inefficient. By improving pipelines and transportation technology across the American continent, domestic oil production may be able to continue to ramp up and begin distributing oil and a low cost to other countries, such as Canada and Mexico. This will further position the domestic oil industry as a leader within the global market.

Decreased oil transportation costs are better for all involved parties. Not only will the oil and gas industry be able to recover wider profit margins, but the cost of energy and gasoline will go down, thereby improving the economy. In addition to using new technology to reduce oil transportation costs, new technologies are also being developed to make oil transportation much safer. Until these new technologies reach the market, companies will need to rely upon reliable, safe, traditional oilfield equipment. At Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP, all equipment is thoroughly inspected and staff members are trained on current safety standards. For information about safe, efficient, and affordable oilfield equipment and machinery, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP today .

The Gulf Of Mexico Is Ramping Up Oil Production

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 05 Apr 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The Gulf of Mexico has been steadily increasing its oil production despite concerns regarding plummeting oil prices. In fact, production has increased enough that the Gulf of Mexico is expected to reach a record high in 2017 . Many oil production companies and unconventional drillers have increased production throughout the United States rather than slowing down. Despite this, oil and gas remains a big and booming business.

THE MOMENTUM RELATED TO DEEPWATER DRILLING

By the time the oil price was plummeting, many of the Gulf of Mexico projects were already in full swing and could not be delayed. Deepwater drilling requires a significant amount of investment and preparation compared to other oil drilling projects. Whereas other companies could slow or even stop production, deepwater drilling projects needed to continue moving forward or lose a substantial portion of their investment. This has carried the Gulf of Mexico projects through the oil price decline and has encouraged continued production throughout the Gulf. At this stage, deepwater drilling cannot be slowed. By the time operations were downsized or ceased, it would be time to resume.

RECOVERY FROM DISASTER: THE BP OIL SPILL

Oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico is often associated with the BP oil disaster, during which time over 4 million barrels of oil infiltrated the Gulf. Today, however, it takes only approximately two days for deepwater drilling within the Gulf of Mexico to produce 4 million barrels of oil; oil production has remained resilient. Many of the issues that led to the BP oil spill have been addressed, and the technology has improved substantially enough that the risks are fairly minimal. Modern response planning makes it faster and easier to contain such spills, and makes extensive drilling far less risky.

THE PROFITABILITY OF OIL IN THE GULF

Oil production within the Gulf of Mexico is a long-term investment. Deepwater drilling rigs and equipment need to be placed and maintained, at the cost of billions of dollars. The infrastructure is presently there; the only decision is whether or not to use it. Consequently, though oil currently being produced may not be profitable, the companies involved would be making even less money if they weren't currently operating their rigs. The cost of overhead and operations is already present, and the decision to remove the equipment would be costly for all of those involved.

While the Gulf of Mexico may not be turning significant profit during the downturn, they have remained in operation and will likely recover their profitability once the market recovers. It's expected that the oil and gas market should begin recovering by late 2016 and throughout 2017, at which time profit margins will get larger. Naturally, though extensive deepwater infrastructures cannot be downsized, many other offshore and onshore oil and gas companies are choosing to limit their expenses in order to ride out the current gas prices. Heavy Iron Oilfield Services offers affordable rental equipment, from line heaters to sand separators .

Drillers Look To Increase Efficiency With Ambient Seismic Imaging

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

As both crude oil and natural gas prices continue to drop, many oil and gas companies have been looking at ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their oil and gas production. Rather than scaling back operations, companies are increasingly looking towards technology to reduce costs and thereby increase profits. Ambient seismic imaging is a new tool that could radically improve the process of discovery .

THE BENEFITS OF AMBIENT SEISMIC IMAGING

Ambient seismic imaging uses data to create a geographic map of potential oil and gas resources. The predictive technology provides a non-invasive way for geoscientists to determine areas that have the highest possible likelihood of fruitful drilling. In the past, the discovery of new oil and gas resources often required that disruptive and expensive physical exploration be done. Often, oil and gas companies spend millions of dollars exploring areas in which oil and gas are not found. This greatly increases the driller's cost per barrel. By making it easier, faster, and less expensive to reliably discover oil and gas resources, ambient seismic imagining will lower the per barrel extraction prices of oil and gas companies.

And it isn't just about cost. Ambient seismic imaging will also make the process of recovering oil much faster , thereby making it easier to produce the large volumes of oil and natural gas that the world will need. It's believed that the next decade will see a drastically increased need for oil and gas as the usage of coal goes down. Oil and gas are both substantially better for the environment than coal, and a shift towards natural gas has already vastly reduced pollution throughout the world.

THE DANGER OF SCALING BACK PRODUCTION

Seismic imaging is only one of many ways that North American oil and gas companies are now seeking to reduce their costs. Oil and gas companies have been using revolutionary new methods such as hydraulic fracturing in efforts to reduce the overall expenses related to their process and begin making significant per barrel profits again. The oil and gas market is currently artificially depressed because of the actions of OPEC, and more specifically Saudi Arabia. These actions have been taken with the express goal of driving North American oil and gas out of the market. If North American companies choose to scale back their production, both the United States and Canada will find themselves once again dependent on foreign oil once the market rebounds.

The need for oil and natural gas is constantly rising, and the world's energy needs cannot be currently met by sustainable or alternative fuels. By ramping up production through methods such as ambient seismic imaging, unconventional drillers will also be able to ensure the world's energy future. Equally importantly, through these methods, domestic oil and gas companies will be able to retain their hold on the current oil and gas market. Heavy Iron Oilfield Services offers a wide range of affordable rental equipment for oil and gas companies looking to reduce their costs. Contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today for a quote .

How Oil & Gas Has Thrived In Ohio

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Though a significant number of North American companies may be pulling back on their oil and gas production, Ohio drillers are still going strong. In fact, a 96% increase in oil and gas jobs has been seen within the state of Ohio since 2011, with an average of 183,963 jobs being produced every year . So what makes the oil and gas industry so special and resilient? Why has it been able to survive when other states and countries have encountered difficulties? The answer lies both within Ohio's plentiful natural resources and the way that drilling has been approached and developed.

THE UNIQUE CASE OF OHIO'S SHALE GAS

Ohio entered into shale gas production at a later date from most North American drillers; this means that the businesses in the region are also likely to be the last to slow down . In fact, Ohio drillers may be able to ride out the downturn in oil and natural gas entirely, benefiting from market recovery after the worst is over. Ohio drillers were able to develop their drilling at a rate that they can support, which was not the case for some other drilling companies. Prior to the oil price crash, many oil and gas corporations expanded rapidly, to take advantage of the significant benefits of new hydraulic fracturing methods. Though this rapid expansion may have made sense at the time, it became problematic once OPEC increased the world's global supply of oil. Ohio has been able to be more cautious, creating steady gains without over-extending itself.

THE IMPROVED ECONOMY WITHIN OHIO

It wasn't just that shale gas companies in Ohio began developing at the right time; it's also that the local economy as a whole is highly supportive of the industry. The state of Ohio has seen significantly lowered unemployment rates since oil and gas drillers moved in, in addition to grossly improved tax revenue. This tax revenue has been used to build out infrastructure within Ohio and to draw more people into the cities surrounding the oil and gas developments. Entire areas of Ohio have been revitalized and improved through the presence of the oil and gas industry, and these areas have remained supportive of the oil and gas presence. This differs from other areas in which there may be environmentalist or regulatory concerns that make it more complex for oil and gas companies to thrive. In a time when oil and gas prices are decreasing, regulatory issues and compliance issues can cause significant problems.

Ohio is likely to continue gaining ground in the oil and gas industry. Not only are the oil and gas companies in Ohio exceptionally stable, but they also have tremendous amounts of local support. It's expected that both oil and gas prices should begin increasing shortly, and this could ultimately lead to companies in Ohio improving their profit margins even farther. Either way, other drilling companies may be able to learn from Ohio's strategy, which includes a significant investment in local commerce and slow but steady growth. For more information about the oil and gas industry, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today .

There Is a Promising Future for Oil & Gas

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 15 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the plummeting prices of both oil and natural gas, the future of the oil and gas industry still looks solid. To understand why requires some understanding of the global supply and demand within the oil and gas industry, in addition to the mounting outside pressures that are temporarily pushing prices downwards.

OIL SLIDES PAST $40 A BARREL

When oil first began flirting with a $40 a barrel price point, many believed that it would spell doom for the oil and gas industry, but oil and natural gas are actually increasing steadily in demand. There is always going to be a market for oil and gas. The lower per barrel prices have been created by a flooding of the market with cheap crude oil; it's an artificial low. The demand will always be present and will, in fact, ramp up. In the case of natural gas, the low prices have actually led to an increase of natural gas and a decrease of coal throughout the globe.

As the prices have gone down, many countries have focused on reducing the costs of their oil production. This has actually made it possible to sell oil and natural gas at a lower cost with a profit. Though some countries and companies may be suffering now, innovation has been paving the way for more efficient methods of recovering oil. There are extensive oil and gas reserves throughout the globe now, and the resource is in no danger of running out; it's only a matter of recovering it as quickly and efficiently as possible. There are many consumers of oil that have no resources of their own; most notably China.

CHALLENGES AHEAD FOR THE DOMESTIC OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

The oil and gas rebound is essentially a waiting game at this point, between the Western world and OPEC. The United States and Canada continue to produce the oil and gas that North America needs to grow and to thrive at low prices that are boosting the economy. However, OPEC has refused to stop flooding the market with cheap crude oil. As the established players in the game, OPEC's major interest is in running new countries out of business. The most substantial threat to OPEC is fracking . New hydraulic fracturing methods are what led to oil and gas being more easily recoverable from shale reserves, which are plentiful throughout United States and Canada. If OPEC cannot address hydraulic fracturing, they lose their source of income outside of the country. Saudi Arabia is a country that has an economy almost entirely based on oil exports. In addition to Saudi Arabia, there is another challenge; Iran. Iran sanctions have been dissolved and Iran has also ramped up its oil production in the hopes of exporting more oil.

For domestic oil production to remain viable, hydraulic fracturing has to remain affordable and feasible. This means that increased legislation, political blocking measures, and other issues targeting hydraulic fracturing could spell doom for the national economy; if the oil and gas industry collapses, the country will then become dependent on foreign oil from OPEC and Iran. And once this happens, the per barrel prices will likely increase again, throttling the growing natural gas market and increasing gas and energy prices across the world. Luckily, American companies have been surprisingly resilient thus far. For more information about oil and gas, contact the experts at Heavy Iron Oilfield Services LP .

IEA: In 5 Years, US Will Lead Production Gains

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

According to the International Energy Agency, the United States will lead the world in production gains by 2021. It's believed that both the United States and Iran will have tremendous production gains in both non-OPEC and OPEC countries , with Iran quickly increasing its oil production following the expiration of sanctions against the country's oil exports. Oil prices have been erratic throughout the globe, but this has done little to dissuade the advances made in the American oil industry, and has even improved upon efficiency throughout the oil and gas market.

SUPPLY AND DEMAND AMONG OPEC AND NON-OPEC PRODUCERS

Oil has reached record breaking lows in recent months, falling from over $100 a barrel in 2014 to under $30 a barrel in early 2016. This tremendous decrease in prices has destabilized the market, and has been mostly caused by a flood of cheap crude oil from OPEC countries. OPEC has been entering into negotiations to stop this increase in cheap oil, but Saudi Arabia has declined to slow its production, thereby fueling the lower prices in hopes of pushing North American oil production out of the market. Nevertheless, the United States has responded by creating cheaper, faster, and easier methods of producing oil. Hydraulic fracturing is one such method, that has been utilized to both increase production and lower production costs.

OPTIMISM WITHIN THE UNITED STATES OIL AND GAS MARKET

The United States has continued to produce large amounts of oil despite low per barrel costs. Though there may be an increase in general oil supply, there are also increases in demand; notably, China has been purchasing large amounts of cheap crude oil, and has been slowly switching away from coal. Oil and natural gas has many benefits over coal, which causes significant pollution. As the world moves away from coal, demand for both oil and natural gas may even out. Nevertheless, the oil market is and has been erratic, and oil producing companies within the United States market have been taking steps to prepare for further volatility.

POTENTIAL ISSUES LOOM AHEAD REGARDING IRAN AND ITS SANCTIONS

In addition to China's impact on the oil and gas market, it remains to be seen how Iran will affect the market. Iran is one of the biggest oil producing nations, but it has been crippled for some time due to the now expired oil sanctions, which have only been recently lifted. Following the initial lift of the Iran sanctions, oil prices fell to $28 per barrel . Whether or not the increased production from Iran will even out the decreased production from OPEC remains to be seen, though a significant amount of the price shortage was caused more by investor concerns than already increased supply.

The United States is certainly ramping up production, and companies within the United States are continually finding innovative and creative ways to recover profits regardless of oil prices. However, it does remain to be seen whether the price will continue dropping, which could lead to some significant challenges for those within the domestic oil and gas industry. Domestic companies will need to move forward with revolutionary new methods of oil production, such as hydraulic fracturing methods, in order to outpace foreign oil and keep the domestic economy strong. For more information about the oil and gas industry, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today .

26% Of Hydrocarbons Recovered Through Microbial Technology

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 01 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

New microbial technologies are currently being studied that could substantially increase the yields during certain oil recovery processes. In specific areas such as Mexico, these microbial technologies can vastly increase oil production in addition to reducing the per barrel extraction costs. This could be instrumental in improving the profitability of the oil industry in areas that are traditionally low yield.

INCREASES IN MICROBIAL EXTRACTION

Microbial technology was seen to increase the extraction process by up to 26% , an extraordinarily significant number when it is considered that many of the processes that the technology was used with only extracts approximately 30% of the potential oil, leaving 70% behind. In other words, the microbial technology was able to facilitate a nearly 100% increase in the amount of oil that can be obtained through specific extraction methods. This technology has been tested with injection well sites but has not yet entered into popular use.

IMPROVING OIL YIELDS WITH MICROBIAL TECHNOLOGY

Injection methods in areas such as Mexico have been notoriously inefficient, reclaiming only a small portion of the available oil every time extraction has been attempted. This has ultimately led to techniques such as refracturing , which go back to previously thought to be depleted wells in order to recover more oil. While this does acquire more oil, it also makes the process far more expensive. In order to truly improve oil yields without simply increasing costs, newer and more efficient ways of extracting oil the first time around is necessary. These cultured organisms are hydrocarbons which are able to withstand extreme environments and free up the existing natural oil, thereby making it easier for the oil to be separated and extracted.

THE FUTURE OF OIL AND GAS TECHNOLOGY

As of yet, microbial additions have been simulated but are not in usage beyond these studies. The next step will be thorough studies of the microbes in action, which may also require passing through environmental regulations and other standards, as they are considered to be chemical additives to the process. Regardless, oil and gas companies are well aware that innovation and improvement are the future of the oil and gas industry. Technologies are increasingly being developed that make extraction faster and more effective, improving upon profits and also reducing any potential environmental consequences.

Microbial additions to existing extraction techniques may quickly become an ideal way to improve upon efficiency without having to significantly alter existing extraction methods. By improving upon yields without significantly improving costs, per barrel extraction prices will be reduced and thus profits can be increased without having to increase the actual prices of oil to the consumer. This is the major goal of modern oil and gas companies, as it will retain the boost to the economy that lowered gas prices has achieved while still fighting off the artificially decreased prices caused by foreign oil. For more information about the oil and gas industry, contact the experts at Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today.

Slow Flow Proves Problematic For Trans-Alaska Pipeline

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Slow flow has been a significant and recurring problem for the trans-Alaska pipeline, requiring numerous modifications to technology in order to improve upon production. Without addressing slow flow conditions, the trans-Alaska pipeline suffers from a number of potential issues, ranging from equipment damage to blockages.

THE DANGERS OF SLOW FLOW IN THE TRANS-ALASKA PIPELINE

The longer liquids remain within the pipeline at chilling temperatures, the greater the chances are of the liquids forming icy blockages within the equipment. Further, the longer the materials remain in the pipeline, the slower the flow becomes, and thus the chances of equipment damage and blockages steadily rise. Once a pipeline has been blocked, it has to be cleared, slowing or completely stopping production until the situation has been addressed. If equipment is damaged, the costs of repair and replacement can be significant. The unique nature of the environment surrounding the trans-Alaska pipeline creates issues that are not common in other locations.

ATTEMPTS AT ADDRESSING SLOW FLOW CONDITIONS

There have been many attempts at improving the consistency of flow through the trans-Alaska pipeline, the most popular of which have been oil recycling, temperature maintenance, and wax removal . Oil recycling works by reintroducing already warmed oil into the pipeline at intervals to lower the effective temperature of the oil being transported. It is one of the most effective methods of addressing slow flow, though it may not be energy efficient. Temperature maintenance involves both oil recycling and the use of heating solutions along the pipeline to keep the temperature of the oil being transported over a certain standard. Finally, wax removal seeks to remove wax before they can solidify into particles and create blockages. The downside to wax removal is that it creates additional steps that need to be taken for the duration of the oil transport process.

THE FUTURE OF SLOW FLOW TECHNOLOGIES

Many analysts believe that the answer for slow flow along the trans-Alaska pipeline is to increase throughput rather than to attempt to preserve the flow of liquids once they have already entered the pipeline. The faster liquids move through the pipeline, the less likely it is to experience a drop in temperature or to create blockages. The challenge has been in maintaining throughput despite decreasing oil prices and increased supply. However, the less the throughput, the more each barrel of oil will cost. For now, maintaining a standard temperature across the pipeline is the best way of reducing slow flow and its consequences.

Slow flow across the trans-Alaska pipeline is largely an issue of physics. Though there are some techniques that can be used to reduce the impact of the cold weather on the liquids as they are transported, throughput is the only answer; the more oil that is produced and transported, the less likely it will be to experience significant levels of chill. For more information about the oil and gas industry and oil transport, contact the experts at Heavy Iron Oilfield Services LP .

This Supercomputer Could Predict Subsurface Oil & Gas Flows

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 16 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The installation of a new super computer at the National Center for Atmospheric Research-Wyoming Supercomputing Center in Cheyenne may have some ramifications for scientists studying subsurface oil and gas flows. The new system was sourced through a comprehensive procurement process and deemed to be the best option for the study of earth sciences and atmospheric systems

THE CHEYENNE SUPERCOMPUTING SYSTEM

Developed by Silicon Graphics International Corp in partnership wit DataDirect Networks, the new Cheyenne supercomputing system will be capable of 5.34 quadrillion calculations every second. The current leading supercomputer being used for earth sciences and atmospheric research has less than half of this speed; thus, the adoption of Cheyenne will be able to advance the data research of these disciplines considerably. A significant amount of atmospheric research and earth science is done through large volumes of calculations and data; the faster these sets of data are analyzed, the faster conclusions can be developed. Statistical analysis, big data research, and pattern recognition are all used throughout these disciplines as a means of making predictions regarding solar storms, meteorological events, and even oil and gas flows.

PREDICTING SUBSURFACE OIL AND GAS FLOWS

The new Cheyenne supercomputer is expected to be able to make many advanced predictions, ranging from geomagnetic storms to oil and gas flows. The supercomputer will be able to run complex geological and atmospheric models and simulations, which can be designed to predict the likelihood of subsurface oil and gas flows through known data. This information could then be used to locate these subsurface oil and gas flows with a lessened need for manual exploration. With the increased power of Cheyenne, extensive, accurate modeling could be completed in a variety of areas that are likely to have oil and gas flows present.

This supercomputing system could thus become incredibly beneficial to companies within the oil and gas industry, and could reduce the amount of cost and time involved in discovering new oil and gas resources. Further, the supercomputing system will be able to model flows of water, oil, and gas, in order to enhance the understanding of the way these flows behave and operate, which could make it easier for researchers and developers to create new technology dedicated to finding, accessing, and recovering these vital resources.

The Cheyenne supercomputing system is another example of technological innovation that is being used to streamline and facilitate the oil and gas industry. Despite falling oil prices, the United States oil and gas industry has still remained relevant through the use of innovation and technology, by making improvements and reducing the costs related to oil and gas recovery. The Cheyenne supercomputer may be able to streamline the process for oil and gas discovery and make the discovery process more profitable, safer, and faster. For more information about the new trends in oil and gas, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services today .

The US Has An Advantage When It Comes To Unconventional Resources

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The United States has become a leading producer of unconventional resources, including shale gas, tight oil, and coalbed methane resources. Though these unconventional resources have been historically looked over by the global oil and gas company, the United States is uniquely poised to take advantage of them, and demand for energy resources is quickly rising. Hydraulic fracturing has contributed to a significant portion of these unconventional resources, through technological innovation and rapid development.

GLOBAL TRENDS LEADING TO DOMESTIC INNOVATION

Many countries have been able to develop their economy through surges within the oil and gas industry. In other countries, however, these surges were due to the conventional drilling of oil and gas. Shale oil production and unconventional forms of vertical drilling have created a unique climate in the domestic industry. The domestic industry has been forced to innovate in the wake of falling domestic oil prices and issues related to foreign supply. Independent oil and gas companies have developed new technologies that can be used to recover more oil than ever before. Though recovering shale oil and other unconventional resources may be more expensive than conventional drilling, it offers a significantly larger volume of resources. As there are known shale oil reserves, it also cuts down on the exploration and discovery process required. Unconventional resources can also be extracted from drilling and production sites that were previously believed to be depleted.

A PERFECT STORM OF FACTORS LEADING THE DOMESTIC MARKET

Though there are shale oil reserves located in many places throughout the globe, the domestic United States market had many contributing factors that tilted the industry towards unconventional resources. Not only is there a wealth of shale gas available throughout North America (including Canada), but hydraulic fracturing technology made it easier than ever to access this shale gas. The development of unconventional drilling by independent oil and gas companies also cost quite a bit of money, but the economic recovery in America created a wealthy oil and gas industry that could invest in forward-thinking and innovative technologies. Once shale gas technologies had been developed by this influx of cash, the oil and gas market experienced a crash. Rather than discouraging independent drilling, the oil and gas market crash actually encouraged it; domestic producers were aware that volume would be essential for market recovery, and unconventional drilling was the best way to create this volume.

THE FUTURE OF UNCONVENTIONAL RESOURCES

As the United States continues to fine-tune its production of unconventional resources, the market is likely to continue to strengthen. Many analysts believe that both natural gas and oil prices will be on the rebound within the next few years. This will likely lead to significant expansion throughout domestic oil production, as independent producers have become extremely skilled at extracting the largest amounts of resources with the smallest investment. And though oil will likely become a boon to the industry, it is natural gas that is likely to change the market. Natural gas is an ecologically friendly option compared to many other types of resource and is rapidly increasing in adoption throughout the world.

The United States currently has an extremely firm hold on unconventional resources. It's believed that the natural gas resources in the United States could sustain natural gas use for up to a century depending on demand . As the global demand for energy increases, it's likely that the economy of the United States will be able to benefit significantly from its ability to recover previously ignored energy resources.

The Next Oil Boom Will Be Even Louder

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 02 Feb 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The last oil boom saved the economy, but the next oil boom could be even louder. Analysts believe that another oil boom may be swiftly approaching, as the demand for oil has been increasing on a global scale. Though the domestic oil and gas industry may have been struggling, oil sales themselves remain stronger than ever, and many domestic oil producers have continued to either maintain or even ramp up production.

GLOBAL USE SET TO RISE BY 1.3 MILLION BARRELS A DAY

Analysts project that the global use of oil will rise by 1.3 million barrels per day, and that's taking into effect the current slowdown in China's economy . In a supply-and-demand economy, the more oil that is requested, the more the per barrel costs will rise. North American companies have become more efficient in recovering oil and can thus make more of a profit per barrel, so the next oil boom will be even more significant to the industry; every dollar that the barrel gains now is pure profit, because the costs of producing those barrels have been stripped down to nearly nothing. Advanced fracking techniques have already entered into common usage to recover as much oil as possible with as little cost as needed.

AN UNSUSTAINABLE SURPLUS OF CHEAP OIL

An increase in oil might not mean much if the current costs of oil weren't already artificially depressed on a global scale. The lowered per barrel costs of oil are currently due to an agreement by OPEC to flood the market with cheap oil. This was an attempt to drive North American shale oil companies out of the industry. But though the OPEC nations may have quite a surplus of oil, they don't have enough to maintain these cheap costs indefinitely. As the global usage of oil continues to rise, OPEC will also need to increase their prices. And as OPEC reduces its supply and increases its prices, the North American shale oil companies will have an advantage; they have been operating with lean overhead and innovative new techniques for years in order to maximize their profits.

THE IMPROVED PROFITABILITY OF AMERICAN OIL

In attempting to drive America out of the oil industry, OPEC actually succeeded in making the American oil industry hardier. Analysts now believe that oil and gas companies will be able to profit on oil as long as it remains above $40 a barrel, and most analysts believe that the per barrel costs will be well over that figure by the end of 2016. For many countries, oil production simply cannot be done as efficiently and cheaply. Most non-OPEC countries will need a per barrel price of at least $80 or more before they can begin to profit within the global market, and this price may not be seen for the foreseeable future. As it stands now, a price increase to $50 or $60 would radically shift the domestic oil and gas market.

Oil and gas companies are likely to see an incredible resurgence in profitability throughout 2016, as most analysts do believe that the next big boom is coming. With reduced overhead and increased profits, oil and gas companies will find that even minor increases in price will dramatically increase their revenue. In turn, the American economy will see additional jobs and improved oil and gas supply. For more information about the oil and gas industry, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LP today .

Will New DEP Regulations Affect Marcellus Shale?

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

As the new DEP regulations are finalized, many wonder how they will affect unconventional drillers on the Marcellus Shale. The Department of Environmental Protection has designed a lengthy series of regulations for the oil and gas industry, which experts believe will cost Marcellus Shale drillers a significant amount of money.

THE COSTS OF COMPLIANCE

It had previously been estimated that the cost of compliance will range between $53,000 to $75,000 per year , but experts believe that these new regulations have significantly overshot. Instead, it's believed that complying to these regulations will cost between $6 million to $31 million a year. The first three years may cost up to $73 million, as organizations will need to quickly move into compliance. These costs are a more significant blow to the oil and gas industry than they would have been even a decade prior, and many are blaming the fact that oil and gas drillers were not involved or consulted at all during the development of the new regulations.

The modern oil and gas industry is weakened due to lowered domestic and international prices, and increased operational costs may shut down domestic producers and lead to a renewed dominance in for foreign imports. The natural gas industry has not only been instrumental to the economy's recovery, but has also aided environmentalist causes; natural gas is far preferable to many other fuel sources such as coal. Experts believe that these new regulations will ultimately be harmful to the local economy and the once thriving domestic oil and gas industry. And though higher costs had been hinted at in the past, there was no warning that they would amount to millions a year.

CRITICISMS LEVIED AGAINST THE DEP

Major criticisms levied against the DEP relate to the ways in which these regulations were derived. The Marcellus Shale Coalition has criticized the DEP for not consulting with Marcellus Shale drillers regarding these regulations before setting them. Consequently, regulations were developed that may have been unnecessary or that may not work properly within the industry and its infrastructure.

By creating what is viewed as an uneducated and uninformed set of regulations, it's believed that the DEP may not be appropriately increasing safety but may instead be providing more barriers to operations. There have also been questions regarding whether the DEP can truly enforce these regulations in Pennsylvania or whether there may be issues between state and federal jurisdictions.

New regulatory standards will only harm natural gas production at a time when the companies involved are particularly vulnerable. The Marcellus Shale Coalition has not been against new regulations but instead has asked to be allowed input into the regulatory process, something that only drillers have expertise in. For more information about the modern oil and gas industry, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LLP .

40 Year Ban Lifted From US Oil Exportation

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

After a 40 year trading embargo has finally been lifted, Corpus Christi, Texas has shipped out its first international crude oil export to Vitol , an international trading company. The Arab Oil Embargo in the 1970s led to oil and gas rationing and a sharp decline of the domestic economy. Now in an oil surplus, American oil and gas companies have found themselves poised to resume widespread international exports.

THE OIL INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO GROW IN THE US

The domestic oil industry has continued to grow and develop in the wake of falling per barrel prices. This has led to a surplus of oil beyond what is necessary for local supply, making it once again safe to begin distributing internationally. It is hoping that the domestic oil industry will eventually be able to compete with Saudi Arabia and Russia on a global scale . Ideally the oil and gas companies will now be able to grow to maintain international supply rather than being limited solely to the domestic market. This offers a great deal of opportunity for expansion.

A MARKET IN CONTINUED RECOVERY

Though the outlook is positive, the oil and gas market still needs work if it is to fully rebound. Experts are optimistic about the industry's ability to recover, based primarily on the refusal of domestic oil producers to simply shut down. Instead, domestic oil and gas companies have worked hard to innovate and develop new technologies. Nevertheless, there are certain issues that could cause problems for the oil and gas industry, such as increased regulation and government blockades. International trading is a step in the right direction, but more cooperation with the government will be essential for future growth.

THE ARAB TRADE EMBARGO

In 1973, OPEC initiated trade restrictions on their oil exports, increasing oil prices from $3 to $12 per unit. Domestic oil production had slowed significantly prior to this, as there had been significant surplus provided internationally. In the wake of the Arab embargo, which had a disastrous impact on the American economy, restrictions were placed on domestic exports. Recently, the opposite issue has occurred. Rather than restricting oil supply, OPEC has flooded the market. This has led to a vastly reduced oil price intended to drive domestic production out of the market. Instead, domestic companies are taking action to improve their oil production efficiency and to hopefully become a world exporting power.

Presently, with the surplus of international and domestic oil and gas supply, domestic companies have found it difficult to maintain per barrel oil prices. The new freedom regarding international oil and gas exports will undoubtedly pave the way for better profits and flexibility for domestic oil and gas companies. Hopefully with new market freedom, the oil and gas prices will find it easier to rebound, and the industry will be able to begin growing once again. For more information about oil and gas, follow and contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services, LLP.

Technology Can Turn Oil Around

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 12 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Though oil and gas companies are still maintaining their production, the market as a whole remains in disarray. Per barrel crude oil prices have plummeted to an 11 year low, well below $40 a barrel . Changes within both domestic and international oil markets have increased the supply for oil while demand has remained relatively static, and the only way this can be countered is through the use of technology.

THE CURRENT STATE OF DOMESTIC OIL

The domestic oil market is strong but struggling. Following the shale oil boom, the market was flooded with an excess of oil. Rather than pulling back on their supply, oil producing countries flooded the market with cheap oil. Today, oil is trading at an extremely low per barrel price, which has pressured many domestic oil and gas companies to slow down their operations. Rather than shutting down, many oil and gas companies have instead focused on improving and optimizing their operations.

REGAINING CONTROL OVER THE DOMESTIC OIL MARKET

It's impossible for domestic oil and gas companies to regain control over market prices. Instead, oil and gas companies must focus on utilizing technology to the fullest extent, thereby capturing more revenue despite the low per barrel prices. Oil and gas companies will need to optimize their logistics and supply chain management through the use of big data , and apply big data analysis to maintenance and safety issues for better predictability. Oil and gas companies will also need thorough analysis of real-time market data and predictive analysis of the future status of the market, so that they can better plan ahead. A significant component of near industry collapse occurred due to overly optimistic forecasts.

Technology can be further used to monitor and maintain oil sites, reducing administrative overhead, and to perform calibration and other necessary tests. Better detection technology could lead to better well sites, and better oil recovery procedures could increase the ability to recover oil from previously depleted sites. Altogether, technology can be used to improve upon every level of the oil and gas extraction process.

POTENTIAL ROADBLOCKS AHEAD FOR OIL AND GAS

Even with technology, there are some potential issues that could cause significant setbacks for the oil and gas industry. In particular, increasing regulations, safety requirements, and environmental protection protocols are making it more costly for domestic oil companies to operate. If oil companies are to compete with foreign nations, they will need to be able to control and secure their own operations. Technology will also aid in improving upon safety and avoiding issues such as spills and environmental damage.

An emphasis on technology is undoubtedly the best chance for the oil and gas industry to recover. Moreover, an emphasis on technology could greatly benefit the oil and gas industry once prices have rebounded once again; the profit margins will be far greater, as the entire system will have been streamlined and optimized. For more information about how technology is helping (and will help) the oil and gas industry recover, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services LP today .

The Best Shale Formation In North America

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 05 Jan 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Though the oil and gas industry worldwide is suffering from the consequences of OPEC's price fixing, North America has managed to remain more stable than the other affected countries. Following the advances in shale gas recovery by hydraulic fracturing, and the rapid development of America's oil and gas industry, OPEC nations flooded the oil and gas market with cheap crude oil in order to drive out competition. For many countries, this is working; countries have resorted to purchasing these cheap oil barrels from OPEC and slowed down their own production, eventually leaving themselves at the whims of these oil producing nations. For America, and to a lesser extent Canada, it has not; North American oil producers may have been forced to slow operations, but they have refused to shut down.

THE GRANDE PRAIRIE SHALE FORMATION

With the tumultuous nature of the oil and gas industry, then, it's easy to see why there might be some oversights. In particular, the Grande Prairie area. The Grande Prairie region could potentially have enough in easily accessible oil reserves that North American companies could make a significant amount of money by plumbing its depths. Until now, North American companies have been able to maintain their profits through volume; they have been developing technologies to recover more from wells faster. But this alone will not help the market recover; in fact, quite the opposite. By continuing to supply oil and the low prices that OPEC has set, many of these oil and gas companies are merely holding on. Something would have to radically change in order for the companies to begin growing and making a profit once again.

Grand Prairie is located on the border between Alberta and British Columbia, located on top of a geological structure known as the Montney. Rough estimates guess that the Montney may hold up to 449 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, in addition to 1.125 billion barrels of crude oil . If North American oil and gas companies today are looking for sheer volume, the Montney is the place in which to do it. The problem is simple: the oil and gas industry is not prepared to grow right now or to make additional investments because most of them are suffering.

RECOVERING FROM LOW PER BARREL COSTS

Oil and gas companies will need to radically change their methods of production and recovery if they are to continue to grow and make a profit within the current market. Not only have per barrel prices been artificially lowered, but they are remaining at this low price point (and falling even lower) because more crude oil is being produced at that price point. For the market to stabilize or shift, North America will need to take more control over the market or will need to find even more readily accessible sources of oil.

Grand Prairie is currently sitting atop one of the world's best shale resources, but it's yet to be explored or taken advantage of. Instead, it remains an opportunity for investors who are willing to take a chance on the investment. For more information about the oil and gas industry, the equipment used throughout the oil and gas industry, and services and safety, contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services LP today.

Backlash Against A New Well Control Regulation

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement agency has proposed new well control regulations, which have not been well-received by experts from the U.S. oil and gas industry, including the American Petroleum Institute. The American Petroleum Institute believes that the " mutually desired objective of safety " between the U.S. government and U.S. oil and gas industry companies is enough to maintain safety without additional costly and unnecessary regulations.

THE NEW WELL CONTROL RULE PROPOSED BY BSEE

BSEE's Well Control Rule was proposed initially as a response to the 2010 accident with the Deepwater Horizon. Ostensibly, the rule was designed to improve safety, but experts believe that it could instead prove to be a blockade against innovation and technological advancements . The rule focuses on safety measures that will need to be installed at well sites, focusing on blowout preventer equipment . It substantially increases the amount of inspections, reviews, and monitoring that would need to occur at well sites. This includes a variety of third-party reviews that would have to be completed for the well site to remain in compliance.

POTENTIAL HINDRANCES TO THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY

New well control regulations have been designed as a "one size fits all" solution, and they require a substantial investment of both time and money in an already struggling industry. Moreover, they may not even be effective. Industry experts have pointed out that well sites are all unique; there are varying sizes, technologies, and protocols. The new well control regulations would force all wells to adhere to strict regulatory standards that may or may not apply to them. Not only would this be detrimental to the oil and gas companies, but it would not provide for any useful improvement in safety or protocols; the regulations being followed simply wouldn't necessarily apply. The American Petroleum Institute, alongside drilling and oil and gas associations, is asking for a more appropriate method of determining regulations that could be applied more effectively.

THE AMERICAN OFFSHORE ENERGY INDUSTRY SPEAKS OUT

The President of the American Offshore Energy Industry has also pointed out difficulties with these regulations, suggesting that it behooves the government, environmental organizations, and the oil and gas industry to acquire expert information regarding regulatory standards before enacting sweeping protocols. Better safety protocols for offshore energy operations can be achieved, it is suggested, by consulting with panels of experts and discussing the major risks that have to be managed. Otherwise, these regulations may not appropriately grasp the issues that offshore drillers encounter.

Well Control Rule has been under fire by industry experts and associations since it was first proposed in April of 2015. It is hoped by industry experts that the government will agree to consult with representatives of the oil and gas industry to create a better and more effective set of regulations. While the oil and gas industry does not deny that safety is incredibly important, it also believes that these regulations and protocols should be developed by those who are familiar with the industry.

Ultrasonic Measuring Provides Greater Well Efficiency

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

New, updated ultrasonic measuring techniques may be able to provide far better efficiency within the oil and gas industry, ultimately leading to improved profit for oil suppliers. The new sensors, developed by the UK company Permasense, are permanently installed in the field, sending back critical data to engineering personnel regarding the current status of equipment. These sensors are wireless and ultrasonic, able to easily monitor wall thickness and density.

ADVANTAGES TO THE PERMASENSE SENSOR

12,000 Permasense sensors have been distributed within the industry in the last five years, despite the fact that the oil and gas industry has been experiencing significant financial cutbacks. The Permasense sensor improves upon existing safety and monitoring measures, making it easier for engineering teams to identify issues with on-site equipment. By alerting engineers to any developments as they occur, Permasense sensors are able to reduce the risk of equipment loss, injury or fatality. Consequently, the new sensors are actually the affordable option compared to less advanced technologies or manual inspection.

ULTRASONIC WAVES FOR NON-INVASIVE DETECTION

Ultrasonic waves have long been used to detect potential damage, such as fractures and corrosion, in solid materials. They operate by sending non-damaging sound waves of specific frequencies from a transmitter on one side of a material to a receiver on the other side of a material. By calculating the amount of time that it took for the sound wave to transmit, the thickness and density of the material can be determined. Any irregularities in readings will indicate an irregularity within the material itself.

MORE EFFECTIVE THAN THE PREVIOUS ALTERNATIVES

Though manual ultrasonic inspection can be completed, it is usually a time-consuming process. Because ultrasonic inspection only offers insight into a very specific area of the equipment, there are tens of thousands of corrosion measurement points that must be individually tested. Due to the labor intensive nature of these inspections, they are generally only done every two or three years. This can entirely miss issues that arise quickly. Comparatively, Permasense sensors can take constant readings of high risk measurement points without the need for human intervention. These measurements are consolidated and sent directly to engineers so that the data can be reviewed in real time.

Permasense sensors are additionally considered to be more accurate than manual readings. Inspectors may skip data points, measure the wrong data points, or simply use equipment in a non-standard way. This can very easily occur when there are thousands of data points to be measured. Permasense sensors do not run this risk; they are able to produce consistent and reproducible measurements.

Through the use of Permasense sensors, oil sites equipment can be more effectively and efficiently monitored, drastically improving productivity and safety. Though sensors are not a complete replacement for regular inspections, they are able to quickly alert engineers to potential failures and breaches. Following the cost of adoption, Permasense sensors can reduce expenditures on oil sites, and potentially cut down on unexpected hazards

Should PA Be Evaluating Oil Train Safety?

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 15 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

With U.S. crude oil production and supply rapidly increasing , train shipments have also gone up considerably. Many of the states affected by this transportation increase have reevaluated their oil train safety and either implemented or begun to implement additional regulations. Pennsylvania remains one of the few states that hasn't implemented any new regulations, leading many to question whether or not the state's oil train safety is up to par.

PENNSYLVANIA'S OIL TRAIN SAFETY REPORT

The safety of Pennsylvania's rail situation hasn't gone entirely unacknowledged. In April of 2015, the Governor of Pennsylvania requested a comprehensive Oil Train Safety Report, to be prepared by Dr. Allan Zarembski. Within the report, Dr. Zarembski made 27 recommendations to further increase the safety of the oil train system . Acting on his own, the Governor both wrote letters to the local oil train companies and to the federal government, in hopes of improving safety and increasing federal regulations. The oil train report itself addressed three key areas of safety: the risk of derailment, the risk of oil tank breach, and the risk of regulatory oversights. There were 18 major recommendations throughout the safety report, which ranged from increasing railway inspections to installing Wheel Impact Load Detectors as necessary.

PENNSYLVANIA SENATORS ARE EVALUATING OPTIONS

Despite the oil train safety reports, legislators have been hesitant to introduce new measures . Those on the transportation committee declined to comment until decisions have been made regarding a course of action, and other senators involved stated that new regulations could potentially overreach into federal jurisdictions. As many of the oil trains are transporting along railway lines through Pennsylvania, new regulations could potentially fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government rather than the state. Meanwhile, oil transportation and railway companies are working to improve their own safety, without the perceived need for additional legislation.Both Norfolk Southern and CSX have commented that safety is one of their primary concerns.

THE NEED FOR OIL AND TRAIN SAFETY

Historically, the danger from transporting crude oil has not originated from the oil itself but instead due to the mechanical or track failure of the trains. The most significant train derailment and accident within Pennsylvania was an Amtrak train transporting passengers. Comparatively, the risks that oil trains bring are minimal, and are largely related to an increase in train traffic itself, rather than to an increase in crude oil transportation. If the oil transportation companies are earnest about improving their own safety performance, there may be no need for additional regulations.

Pennsylvania's legislators remain largely silent regarding the question of oil and train safety. Moreover, they may not become necessary. As of yet, there has not been a significant danger shown by the increased presence of oil trains throughout the state. Additional regulations could simply reduce the amount of money that is being brought into the state by the new oil industry and the financial influx brought in by oil transportation. The report requested by the Governor of Pennsylvania can easily be used by the private oil train companies to improve their safety independently. To learn more about safety within the oil field and transportation industry, you can contact Heavy Iron Oilfield Services LP .

What Is a Sand Separator?

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 08 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Sand separators are designed to remove sand and other solid particulate matter from liquid. Sand separators are also used in applications such as waste management. Sand separators aren't precise enough to remove all particulate from liquid, but they are often an essential part of any extraction process.

TYPES OF SAND SEPARATOR

Sand separators may be either two phase or three phase. A two phase separator will separate sand from a liquid; in the gas of the oil and gas industry, the liquid in question would be crude oil. A three phase separator will also separate a third component, which is often gas; the separator will produce particulate, gas, and oil. Sand separators can function in many different ways, but the primary method that is used is centrifugal force, which is often combined with the use of gravity.

When the materials are placed in a centrifuge and then spun, they will reallocate themselves based on weight. In this case, the sand will generally be pushed to the very bottom where it can be separated and removed, and the oil will remain on top. Throughout separations, gas will usually rise to the top without any mechanical agitation. Once this type of manual separation has been done, a filtering system is usually used to clear out any finer particulates or other materials.

OIL AND GAS SEPARATORS

Oil and gas separators are often needed in addition to sand separators as a method of purely separating oil and gas, assuming that a three phase separator is not used initially. In this case, the situation is generally easier; gravity alone is often used to separate the oil and gas components, after which both gas and oil can be extracted separately, in a more homogenous way. Heaters may also be used throughout the system to aid flow. Though gas may not inhibit the flow of oil, it can make the extraction process more unpredictable.

Oil and gas separators, in addition to sand separators, are necessary to create a homogenous stream that can be extracted. Separating materials in this way is the first step towards processing and refining it, and drastically cuts down on issues with oil and gas recovery. When oil, gas, sand sand, is transported at once, it can cause leaks, clogs, and other issues. As with a sand separator, more processing may still be needed later on.

A sand separator and filtration system will be able to remove almost all the particulate from oil, thereby making it much easier and more efficient to recover and transport. Without a sand separation system, not only would extraction systems be taxed, but resources and energy would be wasted attempting to filter out large amounts of particulate or otherwise manage a more complicated refinement process.

Oil Will Rebound In 2016

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Experts believe that oil will begin to rebound in 2016, following the events that led to per barrel prices dropping by over 50% within two years. This recovery will likely be driven by an increase in demand, which should slowly stabilize the market and then allow it to begin growing again.

THE OIL CRASH AND OPEC

OPEC has been steadily increasing its oil yields and flooding the market with cheap oii, but this situation is largely unsustainable. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries were threatened by United States domestic oil production; in particular, the new hydraulic fracturing methods that made it so much easier for the United States to produce large volumes of its own oil. Before fracking, much of the oil used throughout the western nations were imported from foreign countries. After fracking, domestic oil production drastically increased, and contributed significantly to the national economic rebound following the market and real estate crashes.

To limit the effects of the United States oil market, OPEC made the decision to flood the market. The goal of this was both to drive US competition out of the market and increase the general demand for oil ; a temporary situation after which OPEC would have created a stronger market. Though the strategy did succeed in reducing the price of oil, it did not succeed in driving United States oil producers out. In fact, United States companies began producing even more oil, and developing technologies that increased the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of oil recovery.

THE PROJECTED RECOVERY OF OIL

Though OPEC was not able to push United States oil producers out, both OPEC and the United States have been able to drastically increase the demand for oil. Cheap plentiful oil has driven a more stable market, even at lower per barrel prices. This will have consequences in the year to come. Though OPEC may continue escalating the amount of oil that they will produce, it's estimated that the United States will start producing less oil. Once the supply goes down, the demand should go up.

Taken alone, OPEC is no longer able to meet the oil demand on a global scale. By pulling back on supply, United States oil producers will be able to stabilize the market and increase the demand, thereby strengthening the market. It's believed that the consequence of these actions should drive oil prices up to at least $60 per barrel in 2016, which will be a significant recovery.

Oil will always be a vital and necessary resource, and thus there will always be a demand for it. Though there are external market forces that have conspired to control the per barrel pricing, the situation cannot last forever. Even the vast oil fields utilized by OPEC will eventually mature and become more difficult to work with; the oil and gas industry requires constant exploration and development. Consequently, even though there may be temporary price fluctuations, there will also always be a rebound.

Oil Production Is Still Increasing

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Though oil prices have been steadily dropping, oil production is still increasing. Oil is still a valuable commodity throughout the globe, and there will always be a demand for oil. The domestic oil industry, for the most part, has chosen to increase oil production rather than slow it down or even maintain it . This decision has been made for a variety of important reasons that deal directly with the global supply and the domestic market.

INCREASED EFFICIENCY DRIVEN BY DECREASING PRICES

Oil and gas companies have been steadily developing more efficient, more productive methods of oil and gas recovery. The advent of widespread hydraulic fracturing vastly increased the amounts of oil that could be claimed from each well site, in addition to making the process faster easier, and safer. As prices have decreased, oil and gas companies have been able to fine-tune oil and gas production methods. Companies today are now able to produce far more oil and gas than they have in the past, and this is providing an additional oil surplus. Recently, options such as refracking have also become feasible, which will, in turn, produce even more oil and gas.

KEEPING THE MARKET STRONG IN FACE OF ADVERSITY

When faced by lowered gas prices, oil and gas companies can either increase their production (and therefore, their revenue, even though per barrel prices may be decreasing), or layoff their employees and limit their operations. By downsizing, oil and gas companies would put themselves in a vulnerable situation during a market rebound. Additionally, oil and gas companies would weaken their communities through layoffs and slowed production. Though it might be more financially feasible to downsize, oil companies have an interest in their employees and the communities that they have invested in.

BUILDING A FOUNDATION AND WEATHERING THE STORM

A significant contributing factor to lowered oil costs is a surplus of foreign oil that has been designed to drive domestic oil producers out of the market. By yielding to this, oil and gas companies would simply leave the country's oil supply in the hands of foreign providers. Lowered gas prices cannot last forever; they are being artificially dampened for political reasons. Once oil and gas prices again rise, the hope is that there will be a firm foundation for domestic oil producers to build upon. Should oil and gas companies downsize, they would only find themselves at a disadvantage when competing with foreign oil later on; by improving upon technology now, they remain competitive and may even be able to set the price of the market on their own.

Increased oil production and decreased oil prices will ultimately be good for the domestic economy. As gas prices fall, the economy strengthens. The oil industry will continue to work at improving the efficiency and productivity of their oil operations, and ultimately the oil industry may be able to increase their profit margins without increasing costs. Better technology and fewer unnecessary regulations will pave the way to an easier, cleaner, and cheaper energy future.

The Plan B To Keystone XL

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 17 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Originally intended to carry over 800,000 barrels a day from Canada to the United States, the Keystone XL pipeline has been rejected by the Obama administration , leaving the oil industry in a lurch. The Keystone XL pipeline would have brought barrels all the way to Nebraska, where the oil could then be distributed along existing pipelines. Following the rejection of the plan, the oil industry has come up with new measures for oil transportation.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE KEYSTONE XL

According to oil experts, the Keystone XL is not necessary immediately, but will be necessary for the advancement of oil future. Without the Keystone XL, more costly and less efficient methods of transporting oil will be necessary. This could substantially raise the prices of oil before they ever reach a refinery. The United States imports approximately 3.4 billion barrels a day of crude oil from Canada, which is more than any other nation. Rising oil and gas prices along the west coast could be severely detrimental to the economies there, and the American economy as a whole. The only alternative to Keystone XL is shipments via rail and truck, and these are both costly and dangerous.

ALTERNATIVES TO KEYSTONE XL

Rail usage will likely continue carrying the bulk of oil between Canada and Nebraska and down the coastline, following the rejection of Keystone XL. Rail use is generally more dangerous than pipeline use, which makes it an unappealing prospect. However, it's still more efficient than transportation by truck. In general, the oil industry attempts to build pipeline whenever it can, as transportation by pipeline is the safest, most expedient, and most cost-effective method. By relying on rail usage, there may be additional safety concerns throughout the region, especially as the demand for oil and gas steadily grows. Oil train derailment has been fairly common , and the only thing holding back pipeline development has been a lack of additional pipeline laid and a lack of funding for maintenance on existing pipeline.

BOLSTERING A STRUGGLING MARKET

Part of the problems facing the Canadian oil industry and American trade is that the oil itself is at an extremely low per barrel cost. Much of this is due to other foreign oil-producing nations, who have intentionally lowered the cost of oil as a method of driving North America out of the market. The low per barrel cost has led to a struggling oil industry, which in turn has less funding for large projects, such as developing new transportation processes. The Keystone XL would have been able to significantly reduce the cost of transportation (in addition to increasing safety), thereby making oil a more attractive prospect and investment.

The rejection of the Keystone XL pipeline essentially means that very little will change in transport between Canada and the United States. Unfortunately, that isn't a good thing: as demand for oil increases, it will steadily become more expensive and less useful to ship Canadian oil in via rail. This may mean a reliance upon other foreign sources of oil, unless American oil and gas companies can continue to grow despite the declining market.

EPA Data Shows Reduced Methane Emissions

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

New EPA data has shown a 13% decline in methane emissions from 2011 to 2014 , showing that greenhouse emissions are being successfully reduced within the oil and gas sectors. The oil and gas industry has often come under fire for methane emissions across the globe, but there have been significant strides in technology.

HYDRAULIC FRACTURING THE BEST FOR GREENHOUSE IMPROVEMENT

The greenhouse gas emissions of hydraulic fracturing have decreased by 81% over the same term, a greater decrease than for any other technique used throughout the oil and gas industry. Though methane missions have been considered to be one of the faults of the fracking industry, it's actually incredibly insignificant in relation to the fracking itself. Methane leakage ranges from 1.2% to 1.6% according to the EPA, and oil and gas companies have been working hard to further reduce these numbers. In terms of greenhouse gases, the fracking industry is one of the least wasteful.

RELEASED DATA THROUGH EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency releases information regarding methane emissions every year in order to track the emissions regarding many industries, including the oil and gas. Fracking operations often utilize flaring, which is a method that involves burning off excess natural gas. Burning off natural gas is an important part of the process but it doesn't require a lot of waste. Natural gas operations are actively decreasing the amount of methane emissions as natural gas is a preferable fuel source to many alternatives such as coal. The EPA has seen that the emissions are going down every year, which indicates that the industry will likely continue to improve. Moreover, the actual increases that have been seen within the industry have remained static and are not slowing down year over year, showing an optimistic picture.

METHANE EMISSIONS AND OIL AND GAS

Natural gas is a better fuel source than many other alternatives. Oil and gas companies are finding that more companies are moving towards the utilization of natural gas as natural gas prices have gone down and natural gas has become more common. Companies that utilize more natural gas will naturally use less coal, which is a significant improvement within the industry. Furthermore, many companies constructing natural gas utilities such as natural gas vehicles have found ways to make them more energy efficient.

The EPA's methane emissions reports show that the oil and gas industry has made great strides in improving the environmental safety of its methods. Furthermore, the oil and gas industry is moving more towards hydraulic fracturing, which is likely the least pollutant method of oil and gas recovery. It is to be expected that this will only improve with time and that the industry will continue moving away from methane emissions.

The Rise of Multiphase Flows

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 03 Nov 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Multiphase flows represent an engineering issue that is not likely to go away. As multiphase flows are more common in marginal wells, recovering from multiphase flows becomes more necessary the more that oil and gas is needed. The oil and gas industry has been making additional attempts to secure oil and gas even from non-optimal wells, and this has ultimately lead to multiphase flow techniques.

THE PROBLEM OF MULTIPHASE FLOWS

It will always be difficult to recover materials that are non-homogenous in nature. Consequently, engineers have focused on separating the flows beforehand. Oil, gas, and water are all separated through the use of gravity. Gas will sit on the top, oil will provide a layer beneath it, and the water will situate itself at the very bottom. Once the liquids have been separated in this way, the extractors will remove layer by layer. This avoids any issues with mixtures inside of the lines, as the lines are only used for one type of material at a time. The process is known as phase separation, and it relies heavily on choke valves. These valves not only control and separate the flow, but they can be used also to control the speed of the flow, which differs from each liquid time and viscosity.

SEPARATING LIQUID AND SOLID FLOWS

Separating solid flows from liquid matter can be more challenging. When solids are mixed into oil and water, they are usually in the form of small particulates. These particulates can cause problems when mixed into the extracted materials, as they can collect, block the line, and increase pressure, all while making the movement of liquids through the line erratic. But particles can't always be separated through gravity; they won't always settle because they may have lighter density. Instead, a centrifuge must be used to remove particles. Centrifuges in use can remove particles of up to 0.5mm.

Multiphase flows are increasingly being approached by engineers, but the ability to sort through the flow beforehand and separate each material type makes the process of managing the flow much easier. Multiphase flows will always present an engineering problem if extraction is attempted before separation, and there may still be some issues when switching between types of material.

What Is An Oil Line Heater?

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 27 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

What is an oil line heater and why is it critical to the smooth operations of oil field equipment? Oil field equipment can become jammed through hydrate formation, which generally occurs more in colder temperatures. Oil line heaters will heat the line so that hydrates do not develop, thereby keeping operations moving swiftly. Oil line heaters are of particular importance in areas that have harsher weather.

THE DANGER OF HYDRATE FORMATION

Hydrates will form in high pressure, low temperature environments. They are extremely similar to ice, but are composed of a mix of gas and minerals that are found naturally within the oil line fluids. Hydrates can be dangerous because they can plug the lines, leading to a build up in pressure and reduced efficiency. Should the pressure build up too significantly, it could potentially lead to a line failure. There are very few ways to prevent against hydrates except for heating solutions and altering the fluid composition itself. Solid hydrate plugs often need to be either chemically or manually extracted, slowing down production and costing time.

HOW OIL LINE HEATERS FUNCTION

Oil line heaters reduce the chances of hydrate formation by pumping oil field liquids into the heater and then running them through heated coils. The now heated liquids are returned to the production environment, thereby vastly reducing the chances that they will experience a hydrate blockage. And hydrate blockages are not the only issue that can occur in oil field fluids. The fluids can also become more viscous due to waxes and other infiltrates, which condense and collect in colder temperatures. Warming these liquids will offer an improved flow, which will improve the efficiency of the machines.

CHOOSING AN OIL LINE HEATER

Oil line heaters generally come in two primary models: upstream and downstream. Upstream models are naturally capable of producing greater pressure, whereas downstream models have low pressure coils. A standard density oil line heater will usually have about 12 coils, whereas an ultra-high density heater will have 24 coils. The coils will indicate how much heating can be produced from the unit. Additional coils will also consume additional energy. For most applications a standard density oil line heater is sufficient. Many oil line heaters come with a warranty ranging from 12 months to 18 months, and they are usually extremely affordable compared to other oil field assets.

Oil line heaters are essential oil field equipment for any area that may have issues with hydrate plugs. They come in pre-assembled packages, are easy to set up, and will make sure that the process temperature of upstream and downstream equipment remains within acceptable parameters. For the cost of an oil line heater, oil and gas companies will be able to achieve increased efficiency and worry-free performance.

Properly Maintain Your Oil And Gas Equipment

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 20 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Oil and gas equipment require thorough and careful maintenance to preserve their durability, efficiency, and safety. Companies interested in getting the most out of their expensive oil and gas equipment will need to be conscientious and proactive about their maintenance procedures.

PREPARE EQUIPMENT PROPERLY FOR STORAGE

Before storing your equipment for more than a few days you should always drain fluid reservoirs, clean off surfaces, lubricate joints and moving parts, and cover the equipment properly. This is especially true in severe weather, such as when it's very hot or very cold. Your equipment manual will often give information on the proper storage and maintenance procedures.

CLEAN OUT NOZZLES, FILTERS AND OTHER BUILD UP

Oil and gas equipment often experiences build up over time, which should be cleaned out regularly not only to improve the longevity of the equipment bad also to increase efficiency. Filters usually have specifications regarding how often they need to be replaced. Nozzles can be cleaned and dried to improve liquid flow, while freshly cleaned filters will improve air flow.

USE DEGREASERS TO CLEAN PUMPS AND RESERVOIRS

Any areas of equipment that are either covered in grease or have contained grease should be thoroughly washed out with degreasing solution. Grease can easily damage machinery over time, causing the machine to work harder and to potentially jam. A build up of grease can also cause the displacement of other liquids, requiring more frequent refilling and emptying of relevant reservoirs. Clean the degreasers out and then thoroughly dry the equipment before use.

CHECK YOUR EQUIPMENT REGULARLY

Your equipment should be regularly checked to make sure that it's still operating correctly. Occasionally equipment may be stored for a long time without use. This can allow fluids to leak and equipment to become jammed. Operating the machinery regularly and running it through all of its regular procedures is the best way for you to make sure that everything is in proper working condition. Any issues should be addressed quickly by a maintenance and repair professional.

SHELTER YOUR EQUIPMENT PROPERLY

Fiberglass shelters are the most cost-effective way to protect your equipment from damage. When equipment is not being used (but is not necessarily in long-term storage) it can be protected from weather conditions and sun damage within an easy to use shelter.

CREATE A MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

A checklist should be designed to be run through whenever a machine is operated. This checklist should include information on what the operator should check before and after utilizing the machinery. Not only will this aid in protecting the equipment but it will also increase safety; protocols should include verifying the equipment's safety features. Many accidents in the oil and gas industry occur because of malfunctioning or poorly maintained equipment.

All equipment will break down eventually or cease to operate correctly. If you have a significant inventory of oil and gas equipment, you may want to invest in a program that offers regular maintenance and upgrades. These warranty-like programs will ensure that your equipment is always operable and ready.

3 Key Facts About Oil and Gas Safety

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Though all industries requiring manual labor carry with them some component of risk, the oil and gas industry has proven to be one of the safest. Based on occupational fatalities, the oil and gas extraction field has been shown to be safer than even retail trade services, with only a few industries such as food manufacturing being safer. There have been many pushes by oil and gas companies and regulatory organizations to maintain safe working conditions on oil and gas sites, and these initiatives have led to positive results industry wide.

FACT #1: THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY HAS FEWER INJURIES THAN NEARLY ANY OTHER OCCUPATION

When considering non-fatal injuries and diseases, the most dangerous industries are local government, agriculture, forestry, food manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. Oil and gas extraction has one of the least common incidences of injury, safer than professional and business services and wholesale trade services. A far more dangerous occupation is construction. Construction has the highest rate of fatal occupational injuries and one of the highest rates of non-fatal injuries and illness.

Fatal injuries and non-fatal injuries must be looked at together to paint a whole picture. For instance, the food manufacturing injury has a very high incidence of injury but almost no fatalities. This shows that while it is very possible to be injured in food manufacturing, the injuries are unlikely to be severe. Construction has a lower incidence of injury, but many fatalities; that indicates that many accidents in construction are fatal. In the case of oil and gas, both non-fatal injuries and fatal injuries are very uncommon, showing that the industry as a whole is quite safe.

FACT #2: THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY WORKS WITHIN FEDERAL AND STATE SAFETY REGULATIONS

The lack of injury, illness, and death in the oil and gas injury is in part due to federal regulations, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, all of which have coordinated together to maintain the safety of oil and gas operations. State programs have also been instituted in gas and oil rich areas, such as Texas. Together, there are very few ways in which safety hazards could potentially slip through the cracks.

FACT #3: THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY IS CONTINUALLY IMPROVING ITS SAFETY

Fatalities have decreased in many states following new regulations and better safety standards . North Dakota notably showed a 32% decrease in fatalities while showing a 26% increase in crude oil production. California and Pennsylvania were also able to improve their safety and lower their fatality numbers. It's important to note that injury and illness numbers will often rise slightly once fatalities are lowered, as injuries that would once have claimed a life are mitigated through the use of equipment and training. Thus, injury and illness numbers may temporarily increase in some fields even though the field itself is becoming safer.

The oil and gas industry has shown itself to be an incredibly safe industry in the past few years, with safety standards increasing throughout the decade and injuries and fatalities steadily going down. As new jobs are opened in the oil and gas field, workers can move from more dangerous positions such as construction, thereby increasing their own personal safety. Though the oil and gas industry may have once had a reputation for being unsafe, this reputation is based on the industry standards of many decades ago, and is entirely unfounded in the modern environment.

Best Practices For Plug Valve Greasing

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 29 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Plug valve greasing is required to properly seal and lubricate a plug valve. Injecting sealant also adds a hydraulic medium, which will further improve the action of the plug valve under pressure. Generally, plug valve greasing should occur depending on the frequency of operation -- a plug valve should be greased either after each job or after each 5 actuations. Some plug valves may need to be greased more often if they have higher internal operating pressures or other environmental concerns. Older valves may also need repeated greasing.

BEGIN WITH PREPPING THE VALVE AND LOADING THE GUN.

Before you begin your plug valve greasing you should move the valve into full open position. You should then load your gun with lube sealant. Lube sealant sticks should be shaped into the gun properly rather than forced into the gun, as lube sealant sticks can lose their shape over time. Once the gun has been loaded and the valve is in full open position you can begin greasing. Attach the coupler to the valve fitting and then slowly inject the lube sealant directly into the valve. Lube should be injected at a steady pace. At this stage, you should make sure that the lube is being injected directly into the valve and that there are no issues with the injection.

PAYING ATTENTION TO THE PSI.

Greasing should continue until you have reached 2,000 PSI and should stop at every 2,000 PSI thereafter. At this stage, the valve should be actuated to remove any potential air bubbles. Grease again to 4,000 PSI before actuating the valve again. Once the valve has been actuated at 4,000 PSI, the valve should be fully greased and filling should stop. Valves that are 4" or smaller should not exceed 4,000 PSI, while valves that are 6" or larger should not exceed 6,000 PSI.

AVOIDING COMMON MISTAKES WITH VALVE GREASING.

Different sealant options may have a different viscosity. Always read the packaging to make sure that you are filling to the proper PSI.
Valves that do not seal properly may have other issues apart from needing to be greased, such as a leak that should be addressed.
Failing to actuate at every 2,000 PSI may trap air bubbles within the valve, though actuating more often is not necessary.
Over-greasing can be just as dangerous as under-greasing, leading to a high pressure system and ultimately system failure.

Plug valve greasing is a regular maintenance procedure that should be done frequently to avoid wear and malfunction in high pressured plug valves. As with any pressured equipment, care should be taken in maintenance, assembly and operation. Always follow the directions given on your valve grease and valve grease gun to make sure that your operations are being done as they should.

Eliminate Hydrates In Production

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 22 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Gas hydrates can cause many issues during drilling and production. Hydrates can cause equipment damage, potentially hazardous issues, salt precipitation and other operational difficulties . To that end, drilling companies must eliminate the potential for gas hydrates wherever possible. Gas hydrates are more likely to occur depending on the mixture of the drilling fluids and the external temperatures surrounding the lines.

INSULATING THE EQUIPMENT

A practical first step towards avoiding gas hydrates is to ensure that all equipment is properly insulated. As gas hydrates can form at any location down the line, the entirety of the equipment should be inspected. Insulation at any area will still reduce the chances of gas hydrates forming, however, as it will reduce the overall cooling of the liquid. Of course, insulation alone can only do so much, so it is usually used either in conjunction with other methods or for areas with mild temperature extremes. For exceptionally cold environments, it's often better to rent a line heater.

RENTING A LINE HEATER

A line heater will ensure that the temperatures remain steady regardless of the surrounding environment. Companies that do not often work in regions that would require line heating can rent a line heater rather than purchase it, which comes with the additional bonus of having the maintenance and repairs for the line heater already managed. A line heater is far more effective than insulation and also works very well with insulation.

SOLVENT INJECTIONS AND CHEMICAL HEATING

Should hydrate plugs form regardless of protective attempts, they will usually need to be removed. Removal is often accomplished either through solvent injections or chemical heating . Both of these options are thorough enough to completely remove the hydrate plug while being gentle enough to avoid damage to the equipment. Due to the nature and placement of hydrate plugs, it is almost never possible to remove them directly or manually. Alcohol and glycols are the most commonly used substances for solvent injection and hydrate plug removal.

DEHYDRATING THE DRILLING FLUIDS

Dehydration (the removal of water from the liquids) can eliminate the risk of hydrate formation. Hydrate formation will generally only occur in fluids that are more than 85% water. Reducing the water concentration will reduce or entirely remove the risk. Apart from dehydrating the solution, hydrophobic substances can also be used to coat the line and any other areas which come into contact with the liquids. Hydrophobic substances will stop hydrates from collecting in certain areas, and will thus reduce the optimal formation conditions.

ADDING METHANOL AND SALTS

Methanol, salts and other similar chemicals can be used to reduce the possibility of gas hydrates by altering the chemical makeup of the liquids and making hydrate collection less likely. Mixtures can also be used that will reduce hydrate forming compounds or discourage compounds forming entirely. This can be used either in conjunction with or in place of dehydration.

The chemical makeup of the liquid in addition to the temperature and pressure of the production environment will generally control the risk factors for hydrates. Companies wanting to avoid the potential for hydrate issues will want to carefully manage and monitor their drilling fluids while managing both the pressure and temperature of their lines and equipment. Hydrates are naturally occurring and can be extremely hazardous, especially in offshore drilling, if they are not properly protected against.

Marcellus Shale Drilling To Come To Allegheny Suburbs

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Allegheny Co suburbs may soon be greeting an important new resident: EQT. EQT has expressed interest in drilling upon the remains of the Churchill Valley Country Club, a 1,200 acre property which has fallen into disuse. The Marcellus shale is considered to be one of the most plentiful gas resources in the world and could be a prime location for hydraulic fracturing.

DRILLING ON THE CHURCHILL VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

Residents and business owners surrounding the now abandoned Churchill Valley Country Club have recently been contacted regarding the appropriate leases that the company would need to drill in and around the area. The Churchill Valley Country Club is presently not being maintained, and many of the local residents welcome the gas company as a way to utilize the land. In the suburban environment, the current country club is little more than an eyesore.

Leasing will mean that residents and business owners will have an opportunity to share in the region's wealth. Though the drilling will occur primarily in the clubhouse area, it may also extend in a one mile radius around it. But, for that, the company will need permission. The lease does not mean that the drilling will occur (or even that negotiations for the property itself have already begun) but rather gives the drilling company the option of extending their drilling should the deal go forward.

BRINGING IN NEW JOBS

Drilling on the Marcellus shale would undoubtedly bring both money and jobs into the region, in addition to the leasing costs. It will likely be a fairly extensive operation, with as many as 14 wells upon a 20 acre pad . The drilling would go on for a potential three years and, as noted, could potentially extend one mile outward from the area. Showing firm community support, the East Allegheny school district had already approved a lease for Marcellus to drill on district land late in 2014 .

SOME DISSENT REMAINS

Though many of the residents and business owners have embraced the idea, some remain concerned about potential noise pollution and through traffic. However, on a 1,200 acre property, it may not be likely that any noise does infiltrate the surrounding neighborhoods. In fact, the average noise level of an oil and gas site falls between 70 to 80 decibels, which is comparable with a vacuum. The noise level drops off sharply with distance.

Some residents are additionally concerned about having an impact on the local children. Others are optimistic that the positive influences will outweigh the negatives.

Poorly maintained properties, especially those that constitute over a thousand acres, often present their own risks. By revitalizing the local area and drilling on the Marcellus shale, EQT may be able to embark upon a profitable venture while also improving the local community. Over the past few years, EQT has shown interest in numerous Allegheny regions with Marcellus shale access, and arrangements are likely to be finalized shortly.

Fracking Could Be The Key To Clean Power

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Fracking for clean power: the statement is only an oxymoron for those who haven't been paying attention to recent news in the oil and gas industry. Hydraulic fracturing has made it easier than ever for oil and gas companies to procure natural gas. A wealth of domestically produced natural gas has lowered natural gas prices, making energy more plentiful and cost-effective . Not only does this have a positive economic benefit, but it has a positive environmental benefit as well.

PRODUCING CLEAN POWER THROUGH NATURAL GAS

Many are not aware that natural gas is one of the cleanest sources of energy. Natural gas produces approximately half the amount of carbon dioxide emissions as traditional coal and far less than other fuel sources, such as gasoline and diesel. As natural gas replaces coal as a primary energy resource, carbon emissions are reduced by 50%. And as natural gas becomes even more plentiful, engines which used to work on gasoline and diesel may also transition to natural gas, further reducing emissions. Of all natural fuels, natural gas is the best resource for the environment.

There are many natural gas reserves available domestically, and production of natural gas has been limited previously by a lack of viable oil and gas extraction methods. Extraction through fracking allows for previously untapped sources of natural gas to be utilized and for natural gas to be reclaimed with increased productivity and efficiency. Fracking is critical to a move towards more natural gas reliance and, consequently, cleaner power throughout the nation.

FRACKING AND NATURAL GAS

Modern hydraulic fracturing methods have made gas reclamation easier than ever. Previously depleted natural gas resources may be able to be revisited with newer fracking measures, thereby increasing the amount of natural gas that is available to be used on a global scale. Fracking also improves the efficiency with which natural gas is reclaimed, thus reducing the amount of energy that needs to be used to actually acquire the gas itself.

NATURAL GAS VS. CLEAN POWER INITIATIVES

Presently, clean power initiatives including the Clean Power Plan focus on renewable energy resources and increased efficiency of existing power sources . However, zero emissions power sources have proven to be expensive to implement and take time. A transition towards natural gas is not only more effective but easier and more comprehensive. The infrastructure is already in place to utilize natural gas. Nevertheless, one portion of the Clean Power Plan does acknowledge that natural gas is the preferable form of fossil fuel.

An increased reliance on renewable resources may be an ultimate goal, but it is not one that can be achieved quickly. Natural gas is a low carbon emissions fossil fuel that is found plentifully across the world and that can be reclaimed with ease through new and improving hydraulic fracturing methods. As more fracking occurs, natural gas will become even more readily available and a more viable option towards clean energy. With the global supply of natural gas available, natural gas could well become an intrinsic component of the world's clean energy future.

EPA Approves Ohio's Injection Well Program

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Sun, 06 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Ohio's injection well program, run since 1983, has been approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, though the approval has come with a few caveats. Every state manages and runs its own injection well programs, but the EPA provides regulatory oversight to ensure that each well program meets minimum federal standards. The last examination of Ohio's injection well program took place in 2009, when the program was found to be lacking. The most recent reports from the EPA have determined that the injection well program in Ohio has improved and that the regulations cited have been implemented.

THE EPA FINDS A STRONGER PROGRAM IN OHIO

According to the EPA, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources was able to improve its injection well program in a few major ways. Ohio has taken steps in earthquake reduction and improved the number of inspectors. Additionally, they added automatic shut-off switches and continuous pressure monitoring requirements for wells developed after 2012. Nevertheless, the EPA did state that there were some improvements that they still wanted to see. Specifically, the EPA wanted both better record keeping and stronger enforcement of current regulations. In particular, the EPA wanted more stringent enforcement against those who repeatedly violated regulatory standards. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has acknowledged these requests and stated that it will improve upon its reporting.

PROTECTING THE GROUND WATER IN OHIO

Ohio's program was shown to either meet or exceed federal standards in 17 out of the 20 criteria that was reviewed by the EPA. In particular, the program was stated to provide significant protection for the drinking water resources located in Ohio. Ohio has more stringent standards for well injection than many other states, now requiring the seismic monitoring for all Class II injection wells. The ODNR has also repeatedly stated a commitment to protecting the state from both earthquakes and ground water infiltration. And though the EPA has asked for more enforcement of regulations, the report stated that the program was "strong in several areas including permitting, inspections and resolving violations."

OHIO CONTINUES TO BUILD ITS OIL INDUSTRY

Interest in oil and gas has been steadily rising in Ohio since 2009, following extensive wet gas and oil production in the Utica shale. Oil production in Ohio has rapidly become more fruitful since the development and widespread use of hydraulic fracturing technologies. Starting in 2005, both horizontal drilling and fracking contributed to a resurgence of the Ohio oil and gas industry. Following this positive review of Ohio's injection well program, it's likely that even more injection well sites will be able to be developed with less potential harm to the environment.

Despite the EPA's praise of Ohio's injection well program, there has still been some dissent. The FreshWater Accountability Project, in addition to other fracking-related activists, have been seeking to suspend the program in Ohio until a full safety audit can be completed. However, there has not yet been any reason to believe such an audit would be necessary or fruitful. According to the EPA, Ohio falls under federal guidelines and regulatory standards for maintaining and continuing its own injection well program.

The DEP Makes Rule Changes For PA Oil Wells

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 01 Sep 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The DEP has been attempting to initiate new rule changes for Pennsylvania drillers which could have a negative impact on the oil and gas industry. These rule changes have been proposed previously but were rejected due to their vague language; should they be enacted, they could cost the oil and gas industry up to $79 million a year.

PROPOSED CHANGES BY THE DEP

The DEP has attempted to introduce numerous changes, specifically two major ones: a requirement for driller to restore an area to better than previous condition following groundwater contamination issues, and noise level restrictions, especially in potentially harmful areas such as school district zones.

Previously, these changes were requested but were denied because the restrictions were deemed to be unclear. The restrictions have been modified for clarity and reintroduced. Additionally, drillers will only be able to extend permits one or two years before having to put in a new application.

Groundwater waste infiltration and waste water management has been a growing concern in the oil and gas industry for sometime, though studies have shown that groundwater infiltration does not occur commonly and generally only occurs due to equipment and protocol failure. The process of oil and gas drilling itself is said to not have a significant risk on groundwater pollution. Noise pollution is a newer issue that some believe has not yet been studied sufficiently enough to draw any conclusions regarding its potential for harm.

ANALYSTS WORRY REGARDING OVER REGULATION

Professionals within the oil and gas industry are concerned that over regulation could injure an already struggling oil and gas industry within Pennsylvania. The oil and gas industry nationwide has been struggling following the sharp decline in oil prices, brought on in part by improved oil drilling processes and in part due to market manipulation a by foreign powers.

Increased regulations will increase the time that oil and gas operations take to complete in addition to costing each individual company more in overhead and the government more in oversight. These costs could potentially be extremely damaging to businesses with an already slimmed down profit margin.

A QUESTION OF OVER REGULATION

These new rules are being considered over regulation due in part to a failure to prove that the regulations involved resolve existing issues. It has not her been show that noise pollution or groundwater waste is of a significant enough issue that these new regulations are necessary or would be beneficial.

The advisory boards will meet regarding these proposed issues at the end of August and the beginning of September. It is then that it will be determined whether the rules will be enacted and it will be seen whether the regulations have a net positive benefit to the Pennsylvanian oil and gas industry.

How Eagle Ford Used Data To Advance Completions

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 25 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Through the appraisal of several datasets, a data-driven network model has been created to minimize costs and maximize production throughout the Eagle Ford Shale. Not only does the model yield some insight into the optimization of completions and fracture treatment designs, but it also addresses the challenges associated with the designing of fracture stimulation jobs for a play.

The database model to locate production drivers that possess the same characteristics of the Eagle Ford Shale. The data is then used to plan effective strategies for completion and stimulation that will allow the return on investment to be maximized.

The ANN (artificial neural network) model has been trained on a database and is capable of identifying casual relationships both fracture- and completion-related inputs. It can also obtain drilling and mud data to determine geological parameters, such as permeability, pressure, and fluid saturation. The model outputs were able to predict and observe best well productive values higher than 0.85 for Mcf/psi, 0.9 for boe/psi, and 0.8 for bbl/psi for a 30-day period.

The ANN model identified the crown of the Eagle Ford Shale from sea level as the most vital consistent parameter related to the reservoir. The next most important parameter was butane and pentane fraction. The model also asserts that deeper walls have a tendency to create more hydrocarbons. The deeper walls completed with fracture stimulation programs and additional frack stages also tend to create more hydrocarbons, according to the ANN model.

This model provides evidence for the dual hypothesis that sand treatments in large volumes not only increase inefficiencies and costs and that the use of 100-mesh sand proppants in oil production is insignificant. However, the model also provides evidence for the correlation between 90-day oil production and the pounds of pumped proppant.

Creation Process of the Model

The Eagle Ford evaluation involved the analysis of diverse well datasets to recognize correlations between input and output variables. The flexible neural network modeling used was capable of sifting through numerous databases to create high-quality analysis. Therefore, the ANN model is based on observed data.

The database used by the Eagle Ford study comprised of about 80 wells, which were completed by Operator A, B, and C. The wells were completed from 2011 to 2014 in the various areas of the condensate, oil, and gas windows. About 40 wells, which Operators A and B completed, were randomly selected to train the ANN model. 23 more wells served as test sets for validation purposes and model selection. The 19 wells completed by Operator C were used for the final evaluation of the ANN model after it was developed and tested because these wells were created in the less favorable areas within the location.

Comparative Frack Analysis

Based on the evaluation of Operator C's wells, the ANN model was able to not only pinpoint under-producing wells, but it was also able to provide operators with recommendations based on data for alternate fracture stimulation designs that have the potential to increase both productivity and profits. This modeling approach is not limited by the possession of limited or immense amounts of data. No matter the size of the dataset, the results will prove to be useful for plays like Eagle Ford, which tend to be emerging and more mature in comparison to other plays.

Refracturing Can Help Oil Bounce Back

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Will the oil industry be able to bounce back from plummeting prices? The industry has been hitting the news recently regarding a coming decline , as oil values have dropped and the oil supply has risen. This has been a double-edged sword: domestically and economically, lowered oil prices have improved job outlook by vastly lowering transportation and logistics costs. At the same time, it has made it more difficult for the domestic oil industry, as revenue has dropped.

THE PROBLEM OF MORE OIL

The oil industry decline did not occur naturally. Instead, it was hastened by external forces. Once American shale oil was introduced into the global market, American oil producers became a force to be reckoned with. Naturally, this alarmed many of the oil industry leaders throughout the globe. As cheap American oil entered into the market, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries took action to attempt to slow its rise.

Though there was a large amount of shale oil entering into the market, the actual price decreases were driven primarily through a manufactured surplus, created through market manipulations headed by Saudi Arabia . As American oil producers gained an advantage in the global market, Saudi Arabia reacted by pressuring OPEC to decrease their own oil prices and to maintain this price decrease beyond what was reasonable. Though not every country in OPEC was on board, they ultimately agreed with the strategy.

The result was a market that was flooded with surplus oil, making it difficult for the American oil and gas companies to compete with foreign oil on a global scale. Saudi Arabia's goal in this was to slow down the oil production and growth in America and to keep America and other countries reliant on their significant oil stores, which is the primary basis of their economy.

RECOVERING THE OIL INDUSTRY THROUGH REFRACTURING

As anyone with passing economic knowledge knows, however, it's not always about the price of an item; it's about the revenue. Refracturing doesn't just mean that more oil is available, it also means that oil can be recovered at a lower cost . Refracturing boosts production, making older oil fields and those already thought to be depleted useful again and removing many of the costs associated with drilling .

The more often refracturing is used to recover shale oil, the cheaper oil will become to produce, and the easier domestic oil producers will find it to meet plummeting oil prices. Though manufacturers may still be making less money per barrel, they will be producing more barrels and thus making more in revenue overall.

Refracturing also has a few other positive side benefits that aren't just applicable to those within the oil industry. Refracturing will support lowered oil costs, which will be better for the domestic economy, in addition to the oil and gas companies. By lowering domestic oil costs, the United States oil producers could beat Saudi Arabia and OPEC’s prices within the market while still bringing in consistent revenue and growing steadily. As history has shown, whenever oil is at its cheapest, the economy as a whole fairs better.

GE & BP Are Making Wells Smarter

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

The Internet of Things is coming to BP. BP has joined with GE's Predix software to make its oil wells a bit smarter, which could vastly improve production and efficiency outlooks. GE's Predix software will use information collected from BP's wells for analysis and predictions, which can be used to then make further decisions regarding each individual well and production flows

BIG DATA IN BIG WELLS

Big data has been used throughout a variety of industries in an effort to improve efficiencies. GE's Predix software collects large amounts of data, which is generally too large to be compiled or analyzed by human eyes. This data can include the heat, pressure, flow and other important aspects of each well. The pilot program will include 650 wells and a half a million data points being collected every 15 seconds . Should the pilot program operate effectively, BP has further plans to include GE's software in 4,000 wells by 2016.

The advantage of these tremendously large data sets is that it reveals patterns and information that might otherwise not be identifiable to the human eye. Through these patterns, predictions can be made. BP will be able to use GE's Predix-provided data to determine whether a well may be close to failing or how long of a lifespan each individual well has. The more data is gathered, the more information BP will be able to glean.

THE ADVANTAGES OF THE INTERNET OF THINGS

Most wells today run on sensors rather than predictive analysis or big data. Though these sensors can tell certain immediate issues with a well, such as how hot it is running or what the pressure is at the time, it cannot predict future behavior based on prior information. GE's Predix software won't just collect and analyze data, but it will link all of the wells in the project to the Internet of Things. Ultimately this will make it easier for BP to prevent failures before they occur and minimize their downtime . If sufficiently advanced, the Internet of Things and predictive analysis could even make oil fields and oil wells safer.

GE has been working for years to create an Internet of Things that spans a large spectrum, from industrial applications to household appliances. The Internet of Things is a philosophy of always-on connectivity that includes granular access to a variety of controls and variables throughout a system, making it easier than ever to track efficiency and improve upon existing commercial and residential infrastructures. Such a substantial move into the industrial sector is a significant one.

BP and GE's new project should be exciting for industrial companies throughout the globe, not just those within the oil and gas industry. GE's Predix software can be used in and tailored to a variety of applications, and the scale at which BP's industrial Internet solution is being introduced is unprecedented. If the pilot project is counted as a success, GE's Predix solutions and the Internet of Things may very well be coming to a variety of other industries and companies, in addition to improving the productivity of BP's oil wells.

How Supercomputing Is Changing Oil & Gas Safety

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 00:00:00 GMT

While offshore drilling is an absolute necessity, there have been quite a few accidents over the past decade alone, which include everything from accidental casualties to oil rig fires. Working on an oil rig is one of the most dangerous professions in the world. However, drilling may become safer through new technology, in particular, supercomputing.

THE DANGERS OF OFFSHORE DRILLING

Offshore drilling requires complex rigging that occurs in deep waters. When there are incidents, these incidents tend to be critical because it is very difficult to render aid to the location. Incidents tend to occur more often because of the nature of the environment, which can be both harsh and extreme. And employees tend to run into more incidents because they are on shift for so long. Many workers are on shift for a total of 12 hours a day. They have to be, not only because of the urgency of the job, but also because it is difficult to get employees to the rig itself. Most employees work in seven day or fourteen day shifts.

Though inspections are often done to ensure the safety of the rig, they cannot be done very often because of the remoteness of the rig and because the environment is so dynamic and constantly changing. Compounding these problems, not all of the companies that operate within the industry of offshore drilling are actually experienced in offshore drilling.

REDUCING DANGER THROUGH COMPUTATION

Technology has often been looked to in order to increase the safety of industrial procedures, but in this situation the technology is coming from an unlikely place: supercomputing. Supercomputing and simulations are being used to determine system safety in ways that couldn't previously be achieved. Research teams are using large amounts of data collected by supercomputers to simulate issues and determine overall system safety, including the mooring systems and riser of drilling stations . Through these detailed calculations, companies can react proactively rather than reactively to their system safety and prevent accidents from occurring.

As noted, a large amount of the danger in offshore drilling comes from the environment itself. Deep waters are unpredictable and can lead to equipment failure; in turn, equipment failure can lead to employee injuries and even fatalities. The supercomputing insights will make it easier for companies to anticipate issues with turbulent flows , making the system as a whole more secure and stable. By improving the environment, the safety of all procedures within the rig will also be positively affected.

Computation is only one of the many ways that oil rigs are trying to improve offshore drilling safety. For now, it is an industry that includes some level of peril, but it's also necessary to reclaim many of our known stores of oil. By steadily improving the technology involved in offshore drilling, the industry will be able to create more manageable risk and to improve upon the safety of its employees.

Can Enhanced Oil Recovery Reduce Carbon Emissions?

thecamel2@trilogycap.co (Design Team) — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

Energy-related carbon dioxide emissions increased by 2.5% in 2013 and have remained relatively high since the 1990s . Many environmentalists and scientists believe that carbon dioxide emissions could be extremely harmful to the environment and have sought a variety of new ways to reduce them. Among these methods may be enhanced oil recovery procedures. Enhanced oil recovery procedures are estimated to reduce carbon dioxide emission by as much as one metric ton per 2.5 billion barrels of oil .

THE ROLE OF OIL RECOVERY AND CARBON EMISSIONS

Carbon dioxide enhanced oil recovery is a process by which carbon dioxide emissions are captured from power plants. Once captured, they are then transported to oil fields. The captured carbon dioxide is injected within oil wells and used to reclaim oil that would otherwise have been difficult to pump. This process works because the carbon dioxide reacts with the oil, making it thinner and easier to work with.

The process of carbon dioxide enhanced oil recovery is only used in wells that have already been mostly depleted, to acquire the additional remnants of oils that would have otherwise remained behind following traditional oil extraction procedures. This stage is called tertiary production. This provides an additional side benefit: it increases the amount of current oil reserves by making it possible to acquire more oil from each oil source.

ADVANTAGES OF CARBON DIOXIDE ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY

Apart from carbon dioxide enhanced oil recovery, which is a gas injection procedure, there are two other types of tertiary production: thermal recovery and chemical injection . Thermal recovery requires the introduction of heat, which is used to make the oil flow more evenly and with a lower viscosity. It is the most often used procedure. Chemical injection is very rarely used because it can be unpredictable, it's expensive and it could potentially be damaging to the environment.

Compared to other methods, gas injection is used more often because it is affordable and safe. Carbon dioxide injection is not new, but the part of the process that is new is the usage of "waste" carbon dioxide captured from power plants, which creates a system of chemical injection that utilizes already existing carbon dioxide and does not introduce additional carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. As the gas and oil industry has often been queried about carbon dioxide emissions, this could be a significant step in making the entire process more environmentally friendly.

Carbon dioxide enhanced oil recovery is poised to significantly reduce the amount of CO2 emissions produced by power plants and the oil and gas industry. There are no downsides to this process, as it simply involves trucking extant carbon dioxide emissions into already nearly depleted oil reserves and using these emissions to make it easier to recover the rest of the available oil. If carbon dioxide enhanced oil recovery becomes used throughout the industry, it could easily reduce many tons of carbon dioxide emissions from entering the atmosphere on an annual basis.