March 2020

Advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning

Jared Ciferno, Dr. Grant Bromhal, NETL

Researchers at NETL are working to increase the role that AI and ML play in everyday E&P operations.

On the edge, the next wave of digital transformation

Sujit Kumar, Agora

New digital technologies derive actionable intelligence from data generated during oilfield operations, while enabling the ability to implement changes in real time.

Digital technology provides high-density tortuosity logging to address drilling, production challenges

Kris Earl, Rob Shoup, Stephen Forrester, Chris Hartley, Gyrodata

A novel, high-density logging technology illuminates areas of high tortuosity in the wellbore to improve production equipment placement and reduce downhole damage.

‘Smart water’ may help maximize reservoir production

Jeff Falk, Mike Williams, Rice University

Scientists at Rice University’s Brown School of Engineering show that microscopic saltwater droplets emulsify crude oil when each has the right composition. Understanding how they combine is important to enhanced oil recovery.

Turn out the lights: Can flaring be curbed?

Mark Casaday, EDGE LNG

Large-scale flaring has become an issue in the U.S. and elsewhere, both for environmental and resource wastage reasons. A new alternative to flaring is in-the-field micro-scale LNG.

Positive sentiment for floating production in frontier areas indicates busy time for contractors

David Boggs, Energy Maritime Associates

The floating production market experienced a strong 2019, with the highest level of FPSO awards in seven years. Confidence has returned, particularly for the leading contractors, which are managing record orderbooks.

Unlocking unconventional resources with managed pressure drilling

Ayoub Hadj-Moussa, Weatherford International

A hybrid UBD/MPD solution for an unconventional gas exploration project proves to mitigate hazards, improve safety, and make future drilling campaigns economically viable.

Innovative restimulation technique rejuvenates declining well production

Colby Meise, Parallel Petroleum LLC; Eivind Moen, Comitt Well Solutions

A new acid treatment system restores declining production and delivers consistent output thereafter.

UBCTD system uses Internet technologies to ensure reliable data handling

Toni Miszewski, AnTech Ltd.

Wellsite IT has evolved dramatically since the days when seeing a laptop on a wellsite was a rare occurrence. It needed to—today’s technically advanced drilling techniques use high data volumes from multiple providers, meaning reliability and security are more important than ever.