New Products and Services
Coiled tubing simulation software improves well intervention
Baker Hughes, a GE company, has introduced its CIRCA coiled tubing simulation software, which enables coiled tubing service providers to maximize equipment performance and improve operational efficiency in well interventions. Based on learnings from the field, which have been refined over three decades, the software allows coiled tubing providers and operators to build better job models for more predictable results. The software suite validates theoretical models with empirical data from the field, to help coiled tubing providers move from experience-dependent operations to data-driven execution. The new software also delivers insights into the subsurface, such as downhole conditions, flowrates and safe operating envelopes, enabling operators to calculate outcomes with more certainty to improve job planning and execution. Photo: Baker Hughes.
3D printing handles large prototypes
3D printing is changing the way that organizations design and manufacture products and prototypes—particularly for equipment like valves in the oil and gas industry. It can improve how engineers in various industries develop and refine products, and enable users to see how products can fit into their process. Thus, 3D Print Texas is a 3D printing service bureau that was formed to handle large prototypes, including valves, as well as high-volume production parts. The technologies are ideal for industrial manufacturing, fit and function prototyping, and production of models and parts. The company’s FDM filament-based technologies work with production-grade, UV-resistant thermoplastics to produce durable and stable parts. The company also offers PolyJet and Stereolithography equipment, capable of producing multi-material and functional models. Photo: 3D Print Texas.
Big Barrels book discusses African nations’ ability to manage continent’s natural resources
The outsider’s perception seems to be that African nations are intrinsically unable to effectively manage their natural resources and employ them for the betterment of their citizens’ lives. Some analysts suggest that governments should stop developing their natural resources entirely and focus only on other sectors, such as tourism, agriculture and fishing—suggestions that disregard the transformative role that energy can play in a nation. Is this really where Africa stands? In a new book, titled Big Barrels, author N.J. Ayuk maintains that it is not. Solutions for many of the problems faced while managing the extraction of natural resources have already been discovered. Many of the issues that plague extractive industries, and result in resource dependency for the nations involved, are being addressed in innovative ways. Through a detailed analysis of case studies from across the continent, in countries with energy industries that are at very different stages of development, Ayuk makes the case that African nations can devise a way to sustainably manage their resources and prosper, building economically sustainable societies. Ayuk is the founder and CEO of Centurion Law Group, a pan-African corporate law conglomerate with 67 lawyers and offices in South Africa, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Cameroon, South Sudan, and the UAE, and with two liaison offices in Houston and Toronto.
Drilling jar clamp designed for increased safety, well integrity
Emerson Automation Solutions has recently launched the latest product within its polymer completions solutions range—the PolyOil JAR Handling Clamp—for increased safety and well integrity. The new clamp acts as a safety device to prevent the jar from cocking and firing, with the jar unable to fire unless the fishing neck—designed to enable running and retrieval tools to reliably engage and release—is closed. Therefore, when the clamp is fitted to the jar, the rod is kept in the open position, thereby preventing premature firing during the handling of the jar at the surface. The clamp also prevents the jar rod from being damaged during transportation and keeps it debris-free during storage. Applications for the new clamp include drilling, drill stem testing (DST) jars, coiled tubing and wireline applications. Photo: Emerson.
Test rig facility adds new resources to drilling industry
Keystone Test Facility (KTF) is a new oilfield equipment test facility. The test platform includes a fully-electric rig mounted on a 200-ft track. This enables the rig to move quickly with pipe in the derrick. The track, cellar and pits are concrete, ensuring fluids containment. KTF also has the ability to switch from water-based mud to oil-based mud within a couple of hours. The facility’s accommodations include conference rooms, workshop areas, and lodging. The public test facility’s ISO9001 certification is in progress. Photo: Keystone Test Facility.
Flare gas recovery ejectors reduce gas flaring
Traditionally, waste and surplus gas have been disposed of by flaring into the atmosphere. However, if captured and processed, this gas can serve as a valuable energy resource. Thus, Omani operator PDO has released its sustainability report that discusses how the company plans to tackle gas flaring. The company expects flared volumes to further decline, once a new initiative, using flare gas recovery ejectors, is implemented successfully. In a trial under way at Zauliyah, a field in the south of PDO’s concession, an ejector is being used to recover atmospheric pressure gas typically flared at stations where the volumes are too small for commercial recovery. Designed and manufactured by Transvac Systems in the UK, the ejector was commissioned last November. So far, the ejector project has reduced flaring and has also contributed to the recovery of 18 bopd.
