Exploration

Seafloor multi-component seismic entering a period of expanded uptake. Permanent cable systems in two fields (Mars and Valhall), new shallow and deepwater autonomous node surveys, and a surprise ultradeep OBC acquisition all demonstrate that oil companies, such as Pemex, BP, Petrobras and Shell, are willing to take on the challenge and expense of multi-component acquisition. This is best viewed as a period of experimentation, as issues of processing and value remain.

A simple idea for source positioning. Just as steerable streamers allow better streamer positioning, this method positions sources in marine acquisition. The technique, described by Statoil, keeps the source (re-)positioned for improved 4D repeatability.

Issues, benefits and applications of broadening the acquisition spectrum toward the low frequencies. Authors from Sercel discuss why low frequencies have often been overlooked, and what the application benefits are for widening the acquisition frequency envelope.

 Automation & Control

This case history tells how AspenTech's advanced software, together with automation and control monitoring, helped to optimize and debottleneck a field gas processing facility.

 Deep Shelf Drilling

How to prevent differential sticking and mud loss problems when drilling through depleted zones. Authors from Baker Hughes, Baker Atlas and Total tell how the use of a geomechanics model, together with a fluid management approach and the addition of Deformable Sealant to high-performance water-based muds, allows drilling through some highly depleted sands with large differential pressures.

Deep shelf activity. A report on the status, potential and results of the MMS ruling for royality relief in the Gulf of Mexico. Data and analysis presented by Woodmakenzie.

 Deepwater Focus: Flow Assurance

Effective scale control throughout the water cycle in deepwater subsea fields. Here, emphasis is placed on the need to consider the integration of reservoir simulation, completion design and production chemistry. For water injection, a range of development scenarios is discussed, including waterflooding with seawater, desulfated water, produced water and aquifer water. Authors are from Nalco and Heriot-Watt University.

 Petroleum Technology Digest

Our popular, recurring feature results from World Oil's association with the Petroleum Technology Transfer Council. This month's feature discusses a case study on improving production using novel technology.

 Drill Bit Classifier

Each year, World Oil publishes this valuable guide for drill bit selection. This comprehensive listing of major manufacturers' drill bits helps engineers, drilling supervisors and related disciplines that require detailed drill bit information to do their jobs. The guide uses the IADC classification system and shows the substantial changes made from year to year.

 International Statistical Review/Forecast

World Oil's world review statistical tables-just as they appeared in past August International Outlook issues. These meticulously gathered, compiled and qualified tables from our own exclusive surveys include: oil and gas reserves; wells drilled and wells forecast to be drilled, as well as footage drilled; number of wells producing by various categories, including artificial lift and flowing; all listed by country.