What Industry Expects In 2007

We present our popular annual round-up of industry leaders' views on political, economic and technical issues facing the industry in the coming year. It includes commentary from, Christopher T. Steaver, President, Hydril Company LP, and National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA); Robert Warren, V.P., Investor Relations, Pride International; Jack B. Moore, President, Cameron, Cooper Cameron, and Petroleum Equipment Suppliers Association (PESA); Terje Overvik, Exec. V.P., Statoil; Doug Nester, COO, F-W Oil Exploration L.L.C.; Alexander G. Kemp, University of Aberdeen; D. Nathan Meehan, President, CMG Petroleum Consulting; Donnie Harris, CEO, Garb, Grubbs, Harris & Associates, Inc.; Dale W. Steffes, Founder, Planning & Forecasting Consultants; and Michael Weill, President, Operations and Technology, BHP Billiton Petroleum.

 Protecting The Environment

Seismic acquisition vs. marine mammals: What's the status of whale-harassment mitigation efforts, and the science of passive acoustic monitoring (PAM)? Marine mammal protection regulation continues to evolve in every offshore basin around the world. Now in its fourth year, this report will keep leaseholders and other stakeholders informed of what, for some, is the holy grail of marine mammal protection – listening for their squeaks and chirps. For others, this is just a fishing expedition trying to mitigate a problem that does not exist. Hardware and software to accomplish the listening and identification will be discussed by experts from the geophysical association, IAGC.

What are the criteria to consider in selecting a watercut monitor? Several technologies are used to measure watercut – an essential measurement – in both upstream and downstream oil production. To achieve the greatest value and performance, device users should be conscious of their application parameters before selecting the right technology. The author, from AMETEK-Drexelbrook, compares the capabilities of watercut technologies, including their costs, maintenance needs and advantages/disadvantages.

Pitless drilling for environmental excellence. Handling drilling waste (cutting, fluids) economically and in an environmentally benign manner has not been trouble-free. This case study by authors from M-I Swaco and operator Cimarex review the state-of-the-art of performance of pitless drilling in this case study.

 What's New In Rigs And Rig-Floor Equipment

Based on the success of last year's inbound supplement, we again present World Oil's guide to rig and rig floor technology. Expect a similar format of rig tables, new rig designs and rig floor equipment.

Newbuild report. It wasn't supposed to be possible, but the materials and suppliers to build new rigs to keep the boom going are being found. As part of this year's rig and rig-floor report, we will feature a roundup of what operators can expect in rig supply.

 Produced Water Report

About ten barrels of water are produced for each barrel of oil. It's a number that increases every year as the worldwide oilpatch matures. In, Understanding produced water, authors from the Produced Water Society describe issues that operators will find helpful. Emphasis is placed on common misunderstandings and problems, with appropriate solutions.

 Petroleum Technology Digest

This popular feature is published in association with the Petroleum Technology Transfer Council. This case study from the viewpoint of both operator and service provider describes how production technology is lowering costs while optimizing production in mature fields.