bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative Geological Interpretation Framework for Real-Time Drilling Operations
Authors: Alohali Ruaa , Alhabib Murtadha , Alkhardawi Ibrahim , Alghamdi Yasser
Published: October 2023

Digitalization is rapidly transforming oil and gas industry, particularly in real-time drilling operations. Many years back, manually-drawn wellsite striplogs were mostly used to assist drilling operations. The legacy technique encountered major challenges such as data accessibility, paper-based interpretation preservation and decision-making process delays. The technologies introduced offer significant improvements where processes with digitalization help build reliable systems for wellsite operations to overcome the challenges by providing an innovative solution to monitor drilling on 24/7 basis.

The implemented solution is customized based on an in-depth analysis of exploration workflows. It empowers geologists with interactive interpretation features for casing points identification, lithology interpretation and well correlation utilizing visually-rich log templates. Furthermore, a full integration with corporate repositories and map services is established to facilitate access to drilling, geological and petrophysical data. Due to the criticality of exploration drilling operations, computing services are configured using distributed redundant systems architecture to ensure high availability.

The implementation significantly minimizes manual data entry of active wells, which enhances data quality in an efficient manner. The integration with corporate databases and key vendor applications provides a centralized hub for all wellsite geological operations and achieves improved correlation results. The utilization of the interactive GIS maps improves well location identification, spatial measurements with offset wells and reports on relevant log data availability to create geologically meaningful correlation charts. The solution enhances the overall performance by providing an efficient and streamlined access to a cutting-edge set of geological interpretation tools from rig-site utilizing satellite communication. This technology enabled the digitization of more than 5000 wells with standardized business rules to build a consolidated database for wellsite daily operations.

The introduced single hub that enables access to geological interpretation data allows geologist to generate customized reports to summarize drilling operations to executive management. Advanced data analytics features and dashboards are implemented to reveal unseen patterns of current and historical data. The comprehensive framework offers digital transformation opportunities such as formation tops prediction and drilling cutting images classification. Furthermore, mobility features will be introduced to provide reliable access anytime, anywhere to facilitate faster decision-making process.
ML Driven Integrated Approach for Perforation Interval Selection Based on Advanced Borehole Images AI Assisted Interpretation
Authors: Petrov A. , Belouahchia M. , Noufal D.
Published: October 2023

Carbonate reservoirs are typically naturally fractured, resulting in a complex network of fluid movement that plays a crucial role in determining their production and recovery performance. However, due to the inherent complexity and heterogeneity of these reservoirs, evaluating their recovery potential is a highly challenging task. In this study, we propose an Al-assisted workflow that utilizes machine learning techniques to identify sweet spots in carbonate reservoirs.

A supervised Deep Learning model is utilized to segment relevant features, specifically fractures, in borehole images using pixel-wise identification. Subsequently, sinusoidal fitting algorithms are employed to determine the dip and strike of each feature. The obtained dip magnitude and azimuth direction of fracture planes are analyzed using supervised machine learning techniques to identify the orientation of the three principal stress axes that caused the fracturing. Based on borehole image interpretation, a feature map is generated and employed for porosity estimation and partitioning. The reservoir connectedness index is estimated based on porosity analysis and the feature map, which is utilized as input for image-based permeability estimation. Finally, an integrated approach combining advanced borehole image interpretation and stress analysis is used to identify sweet spots based on the reservoir's rock quality and geomechanical properties for perforation.

Quantitative information extracted from BHI was utilized to identify heterogeneous zones that showed higher secondary porosity and pore connectedness. This information proved to be valuable in identifying the most productive zones and in understanding the correlations between different carbonate porosity components and well productivity data. We observed an excellent correlation between production log profile and the connectedness log derived from the borehole image, indicating that the variation in production profile is likely triggered by the textural variation in the reservoir. The pore connectedness index serves as a significant and relevant qualitative measure to predict the producibility of the reservoir and can be used to optimize the completion of future wells.

To overcome limitations in characterizing carbonate reservoirs, machine learning techniques have been used. This involves annotating geologic features using a well database, with supervision from subject matter experts. The resulting machine learning model is tested on new wells and can identify pay zones, perforation intervals, and stress analysis, including minimum and maximum horizontal stresses. The models successfully detect fractures, breakouts, bedding planes, vugs, and slippage passages with pixel-level precision, reducing BHI analysis time. Machine learning is a promising development in reservoir characterization, improving the accuracy and efficiency of analyzing carbonate reservoirs.
Optimizing the Balance Between Production Availability, Capex and Opex of Projects While Managing Environmental Aspects with a Simulation Tool
Authors: Clavé N. , Estécahandy M.
Published: October 2023

With economic and environmental constraints growing stronger every day, engineering high-performance system architectures at an acceptable cost is of critical importance. The ability to quickly model the various alternatives under consideration in order to calculate their production availability plays a key role here.

The basis of the technique our team worked out is in fact not really new. The idea is to build a Production Availability or RAM model into a specific tool in a block flow diagram format, that is a well-known approach. Then, by integrating GHG emission estimates and costs, and by modeling the different options under study, the results obtained can provide decision aid support to project teams and operated sites. Many aspects can be tested on future or new installations: design/redundancy levels, operating philosophy, maintenance philosophy, spare part management… The final objective is to compare the different options and determine the one optimizing at the best the balance between performances, costs, and environmental aspects.

It is important to point out that economic i.e. CAPEX, OPEX, cash flow, NPV… calculations performed can only provide rough estimates. Indeed, all topics being not covered in detail, these first economic results have to be confirmed by real calculations performed by architects or strategy team members.

The new modeling/simulation tool has been developed in the GRIF software suite environment and is named GRIF-Petro. It is the only software module of its kind in our industry. It has significantly modified the working methods of our reliability engineers and field development engineers, providing effective decision support. It has enabled us to test and validate proposals that have reduced CAPEX and OPEX by more than $400 million over the past 3 years. New uses for these models are likely to emerge as modeling times are drastically reduced and the solution is connected to our supercomputer.
Potential Formation Damage Following Matrix Acidizing Treatments. North Africa Field
Authors: Khodja A. Ali , Chouali K.
Published: October 2023

Sludges formation during acid stimulation is a serious issue as it induces a damage that cannot be easily dissolved with most of treating chemicals. Recently, many wells experienced a drop in their potential following matrix acidizing treatment. Many factors could be attributed to this poor production performance following the treatments.

In this paper, we addressed the issue of sludge formation in contact of the acid (HCl 7.5% & Mud acid 6:1.5) with crude oil. As described by Moore et al (1965), sludge tendency test was carried out in the laboratory using samples of acid recipe being used in the field with samples of oil collected from wells with suspected sludge issues. Surprisingly, results show sludge formation in contact of both HCl 7.5% and Mud Acid 6:1.5. The sludge deposit formed was dried in oven and both volume and weight percentage were calculated and compared with published values of different crude oils around the world. Some case examples with suspected formation damage by sludges are presented in this paper.
Hydrogen: Comparing Production and Optimized Solutions
Authors: Singh Jag
Published: October 2023

Golu-H2 is a member of the SBI Group, a clean energy innovator in cutting edge technologies development for over 25 years.

SBI has invested over $40 million to reach the point we are at today, with a fully equipped state of the art 25,000 sq. ft. facility with modern analytical equipment and fabrication capabilities.

SBI's Renewable diesel/Sustainable Aviation fuel (Jet Fuel) technology has been licensed by Royal Dutch Shell in 2016, we have global patents on this and our Hydrogen technology. This proved our abilities in scaling up processes, catalyst development, process and processor design and optimization. We also have in-house automation and controls, providing the most flexibility to execute projects efficiently.
Artificial Intelligence Eco-Mobility System Unmanned Shuttle
Authors: Al Blooshi S. , Al Salami A. , Salem W. , Al Hammadi M. , Mahyoub M. , Al Marzooqi A. , Al Tamimi A.
Published: October 2023

This paper represents the experience of adapting an Artificial Intelligence Eco-mobility system as a pilot in a non-industrial area on an Oil & Gas offshore Island. Upon successful operation for six months, full-phase implementation will also occur, including in the industrial areas. The System reduces 40% of greenhouse gas emissions daily from transportation, improves 80% of OPEX, eliminates accidents, and enhances innovation and digitalization. At one of ADNOC Offshore Islands, as a trial, the AI Eco-mobility system is replacing the existing airport shuttles. The System has proven Artificial Intelligence technology, battery operated, that functions without drivers. As a precautionary measure, the System is supervised from the control room by an operator who can monitor several shuttles simultaneously. It has fail-safe features with evacuation procedures and works with reverse logic, which detects obstacles before proceeding. Replacement of traditional transportation with an AI Eco-system adds enormous value in health, safety, environment, people, and profitability. The test phase execution scope is to replace only two shuttles with an AI system; however, twelve present shuttles will take place after a six-month trial, covering the whole Island, including the industrial areas. The six-month trial is ongoing, and the System is user-friendly, with precise timing, safety characteristics, and high efficiency. It reduces 40% of emissions compared to traditional shuttles and enhances operation costs. The Full-Phase execution expects to eliminate 100% of the emissions produced by public transportation after ADNOC Project Lightening of the Power Supply, eliminate the accidents resulting from human errors, and reduce the OPEX cost by 80% due to non-availability of the consumable mechanical parts. The Trial-Phase execution cost is optimum, considering the worldwide benefits to Oil & Gas industries. Such systems function with no incident records, while they have never been tested in the oil & gas industries due to the safety prerequisite. ADNOC Offshore is working with OEM to have an intrinsically safe design suitable for industrial areas.
Provision of Hydrogen and Nitrogen for Blue Ammonia Production at Large Scale
Authors: Brandl A. , Wawrzinek K.
Published: October 2023

The increasing impact of climate change illustrates the necessity to reduce carbon intensity in industry. Many countries have already set a target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. However, not only regulation by authorities is an important driver, but public perception and investor interest also push all relevant industries to increase their efforts to act more sustainably. Therefore, an increasing number of companies has also set internal targets for sustainability and greenhouse gas reductions.

The target of transformation to a carbon-free society is widely acknowledged. Ammonia as a key element for fertilizer production and hence agriculture, but also as a potential energy carrier, plays an important role. According to IEA [IEA NH3 2021], ammonia production contributes 450 mil. t direct CO2 emissions per year. Additionally, the related power consumption and emissions from the use of urea add 170 mil. t indirect CO2 emissions annually. This corresponds to almost 2 % of the world’s total CO2 emissions, which are reported 31.5 Gt in 2020 [IEA Energy 2021]. Therefore, the NH3 industry has the potential and obligation to contribute to overall CO2 emissions reductions.

The average direct CO2 emissions per produced ton of ammonia is approx. 2.4 tons. However, the emission value of a specific plant depends widely on feedstock, applied technologies, and age. Ammonia plants based on natural gas roughly emit 1.8 t CO2 per t NH3, and even lower numbers are achieved nowadays. Coal-based plants on the other hand emit approx. 3.2 t CO2 per t NH3, due to the high carbon content of the coal.
Upscaling of Modeling of Thermal Dispersion in Stratified Geothermal Formations
Authors: Tang Jinyu , Wang Yang , Rossen William R.
Published: October 2023

Upscaling of geothermal properties is necessary given the computational cost of numerical simulations. Nevertheless, accurate upscaling of thermo-physical properties of layers combined in simulation grid blocks has been a long-standing challenge. In stratified porous media, non-uniform velocity between layers combined with transverse thermal conduction across layers causes spreading of the thermal front: thermal Taylor dispersion. Neither effect of heterogeneity is accounted for in conventional upscaling. Based on thermal Taylor dispersion, we develop a new upscaling technique for simulation of geothermal processes in stratified formations. In particular, we derive a model for effective longitudinal thermal diffusivity in the direction of flow, αeff, to represent this phenomenon in two-layer media. αeff, accounting for differences in velocity and transverse thermal conduction, is much greater than the thermal diffusivity of the rock itself, leading to a remarkably larger effective dispersion. We define a dimensionless number, NTC, a ratio of times for longitudinal convection to transverse conduction, as an indicator transverse thermal equilibration of the system during cold-water injection. Both NTC and αeff equations are verified by a match to numerical solutions for convection/conduction in two-layer systems. We find that for NTC > 5, thermal dispersion in the system behaves as a single layer with αeff This suggests a two-layer medium satisfying NTC > 5 can be combined into a single layer with an effective longitudinal thermal diffusivity αeff. Compared with conventional approaches by averaging, the αeff model provides more accurate upscaling of thermal diffusivity and thus more-accurate prediction of cooling-front breakthrough. In stratified geothermal reservoirs with a sequence of layers, upscaling can be conducted in stages, e.g. combining two layers satisfying the NTC criterion in each stage. The application of the new technique to upscaling geothermal well-log data will be presented in a companion paper.
Green Hydrogen Export – Technical Readiness of Jetty-Less Marine Loading Terminals
Authors: Peace C. , Campbell D. , Shen W.
Published: October 2023

The Middle East is a competitive global energy powerhouse, and it has the opportunity to lead the energy transition. Already home to some of the world’s lowest-priced solar projects, the Middle East has ambitious green hydrogen developments underway. The Middle East has an opportunity to harness its clean energy resources to lead the way for green hydrogen exporting. This paper presents the technical readiness and challenges associated with exporting green hydrogen in different vectors via Single Point Mooring (SPM) systems.

Jetty-less marine loading and unloading terminals provide a potentially less-intrusive solution for import and export of green hydrogen. These can potentially be used in areas where coastlines and/or seastate do not support conventional jetties.
Improving Industrial Operations with Real-Time Information Using Augmented Reality
Authors: Alshamsi Shamma
Published: October 2023

The objective and scope of this project are to leverage the latest technological advancements, such as Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, to enhance operations. Specifically, this project will focus on the implementation of Augmented Reality to superimpose crucial digital information onto real-time views of various sections and elements of the ADNOC Gas Sites. This approach aims to improve accuracy, efficiency, and operations safety.

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital content onto the real world. The process for using AR in an industrial setting involves identifying equipment, gathering data, creating AR overlays, choosing an AR device, integrating device, data, training users, and monitoring and refining system. Data collection includes equipment specifications, design, P&ID graphs, operational parameters, and related essential information. The AR device is then configured to recognize the equipment and display relevant overlays. User training is necessary, and the system must be monitored and updated to remain effective.

The use of Augmented Reality (AR) technology in an industrial setting to identify equipment-related information can provide numerous benefits to various stakeholders. This includes improved accuracy, efficiency, and safety across the entire organization. The process of using AR in an industrial setting involves several steps as mentioned above. This process requires collaboration between various stakeholders, including AR experts, equipment engineers, IT specialists, and operational staff. The implementation of AR technology in ADNOC Gas sites can greatly enhance operations and improve overall performance, productivity, and safety. By utilizing AR overlays to display equipment-related information in real-time, operators can quickly and accurately identify issues and make necessary adjustments and actions. Engineers can use AR to visualize equipment designs and simulate potential changes or upgrades. Maintenance personnel can use AR overlays to identify equipment components and perform repairs more quickly and accurately. Management can use AR to receive real-time data on equipment performance to make data-driven decisions. Additionally, AR can be used in training programs to provide a more immersive and interactive experience for trainees.

This paper will present novel information by showcasing a unique and transformative implementation of AR within the petroleum industry. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and real-world examples, it will demonstrate how the strategic integration of AR overlays can significantly improve accuracy, efficiency, and safety in industrial operations. This valuable contribution to the existing body of knowledge can guide petroleum industry professionals in harnessing AR's potential to drive innovation and enhance productivity in their operations.
Hands-Free Driving of Flush OD Conductor Tubulars
Authors: Dupuis P. D. , Adams P. A. , Smith L. E.
Published: October 2023

With the continued focus on increasing safety and improving operational efficiencies, these areas of needed improvement was highlighted in a recent conductor driving operation. To improve and strive towards achieving a truly "hands-free" conductor driving, the use of various technologies was reviewed. Combining technologies, the ability of remote-operated equipment such as the specialty flush joint elevator, remote-operated slips, and the hydraulic hammer has allowed the shift to a more hands-off operation nearly reaching our goal of "hands-free".

With the upcoming work, the client expressed a drive to make these operations not only as efficient as possible but to increase the focus on red zone entry and overall safety. The pre-planning of these operations drove our operations team to review all equipment selections and review ongoing operations worldwide to determine the best solution for this project.

The results of this focus-driven planning and collaborative effort led to the completion of these operations in a hands-free manner and improved running speeds. The project was completed before their required date which led to savings for our client and without incident proving this complex operation under adverse conditions can be completed while improving safety on the rig floor.

The continued use of these procedures and technology will continue to set the standard for operations well into the future of conductor-driving operations. Along with the procedures that were improved throughout the campaign, the solution aboard proved once again that having the right equipment for the job not only increases safety but improves the overall product delivered to our client, in this case, a stable and sound start of their well.

With the combination of these technologies, producing a nearly hands-free driving operation, the customer can improve their chances of safe efficient operations by keeping personnel out of hazardous areas.
Unlocking a Digital Twin and Scalable AI Models Through Fit-For-Purpose Reliable Data
Authors: Baeck Bert
Published: October 2023

Digital transformation has become a strategic imperative for industrial manufacturers and asset owners, promising significant improvements in operational efficiency and profitability. According to Thierry Cartage, former Senior Vice President of Digital at SOLVAY and a renowned industry expert, the potential for digital transformation to enhance industrial operations is estimated at 2-3% improvement in EBITDA. However, unlocking this potential requires a comprehensive journey spanning 2 to 5 years, as highlighted in a joint presentation at the Connected Plant Conference in June 2023.

When embarking on digital initiatives, various captivating topics emerge, such as Digital Twin, AI in production, Real-time optimizers, Predictive maintenance, industrial knowledge graphs, and the more recent addition of Generative AI. These topics generate considerable interest and enthusiasm among industry professionals, as they hold the promise of revolutionizing industrial operations and driving competitive advantages. The ability to create virtual replicas of physical assets (Digital Twins) and leverage advanced analytics and machine learning techniques (AI in production) can offer unprecedented insights and efficiencies.

Real-time optimizers enable organizations to dynamically optimize operations based on real-time data, while predictive maintenance helps prevent costly equipment failures by identifying maintenance needs in advance. Industrial knowledge graphs provide a structured representation of information, allowing for effective data integration and knowledge discovery. The emerging field of Generative AI opens up possibilities for creating novel and innovative solutions by generating new content or designs based on existing data.
Curing Total Losses Via Placement of Aggressive Cement Recipe Through Sacrificial Fiberglass Pipe
Authors: Aljuzayri M. , Corona M. , Franco N. , Alzlfawi A. , Bansal S. , Albarut A. A. , Siddiqi F. , Buizran T. , Al Kubaish Y. A. , Ertus C. , Alhassan M. E. , Antonov M.
Published: October 2023

Drilling across severely fractured formations results in losses of circulation that are almost impossible to cure. In the cases under study, offset wells showed a struggle to regain returns even after spending 33% of the well construction time, pumping more than 15 conventional and non-conventional loss circulation plugs (5,000 bbl of slurry). The objective of this paper is to describe the methodology developed to recover returns from a total losses scenario and demonstrate its effectiveness.

After encountering losses, a mud cap is pumped through the annulus to maintain well control as per local requirements. However, the mud cap contaminates any cement plug placed to regain circulation. That can be mitigated by spotting a vast amount of fast-setting slurry which increases the risk of stuck pipe if the job is performed with conventional cement stinger. The risk of a stuck pipe can be mitigated by utilizing a sacrificial fiberglass pipe to spot a large volume of slurry across the loss zone. The cement setting time can be accelerated by pumping silicate spacer which will flash set when it reacts with the slurry.

In the extreme cases of cavernous formations, gravel solids can be used to create a base where loss circulation plug is spotted. After filling the loss zone with gravel, conventional cement is placed on top of it and wait till it is set. The mixture of gravel and cement is then drilled which can smear the wellbore wall and fill the caverns. The paper introduces the utilization of sacrificial fiberglass pipe to be able to pump a higher volume of cement slurry with flash setting silicate spacer that improves the possibility of curing losses and mitigating stuck pipe risk. In addition, it shows how smearing the wellbore with gravel can enhance the chances to cure the most challenging downhole mud losses.
Worldwide's First Time Successful Hydraulic Fracture Operation Through GRE Composite Fiberglass Lined API 5CT Carbon Steel String
Authors: Ali A. , Radhakrishnan G. , AlKhouly A.
Published: October 2023

In an attempt that is considered the first in well stimulation techniques by means of Hydraulic Fracture practice in GRE lined tubing, Badr Petroleum Company, BAPETCO (A SHELL Joint Venture in Egypt) has a successful experience to report. The company performed a hydraulic fracture operation through one of its water injection well installations completed with GRE (fiberglass) lining.

The need for fiberglass tubular lining raised from the fact that the injected water in Neag-1 field is saturated with 1000 ppb of oxygen content and a range between 60,000 to 80,000 of salinity which led to an active corrosion cell within the downhole injection strings.

The company has been using GRE fiberglass lining for their downhole tubing since 2013 for corrosion protection. However, whenever a frac job was required in a GRE lined string, the tubing had to be pulled out of hole, a frac string had to be run allowing for flowback through the temporary frac string and then the GRE lined string to be re-run again. This sequence of processes lead to a significant downtime and increased workover costs.

The concerns about the hydraulic fracture jobs with a GRE lined string came from the fear that the proppants flowing back would erode away the internal GRE lining. There was no availability of any test reports on erosion from conditions mimicking frac jobs through GRE lined tubing that could duplicate the flow back conditions.

In two of the wells already completed with GRE lined tubing since 2014, the operations required hydraulic fracture job to be carried out using proppants. The injection rates were high at 20 barrels per minute (28,800 bpd flow rate) for a period of 30 minutes. The proppant injection pressure was 4000 psi. The flow back (cleaning post frac) took 24 hours to complete. 90,000 lb of proppants was injected.

At the completion of the fracture job operations in 2018, no returns of GRE or flare or corrosion barrier ring pieces were collected in the surface. The paper will share the intervention jobs that have been recently run through the tubing that corroborates with the fact that the GRE lining inside the tubing is intact.

This paper demonstrates the preparatory steps taken by the company to carry out hydraulic fracture jobs through a fiberglass GRE lined string and the learnings from this operation. It also sets a new limit on the erosional resistance of GRE lined tubing.

The paper will also highlight the gains of Bapetco utilizing GRE within their water injection wells for corrosion protection. The injection flowrate gains will also be shared in detail, as well as the economic gains of performing the frac job through an already RIH GRE lined string instead of using the conventional frac string operation procedures.
Data Science Empowers Well and Surface Network Modelling
Authors: Gie A. , Soltani A. , Auffray B. , Duval T. , Languereau T.
Published: October 2023

Production optimization involves subsurface understanding and flow optimization from downhole to surface facilities. It is a continuous process that requires a representative, easy-to-use, automated, repeatable, and updatable Well & Surface Network Modelling (W&SNM) workflow. This paper presents a novel W&SNM process for a giant brown oil field that demonstrates the power of data science utilized by petroleum engineering experts in maximizing production.

Python scripts are used to streamline a sophisticated W&SNM process for a mature North African oil field with over 300 wells and 60 years of production. The process involves preparing static and time-variable resources, including well-test and production databases, well categories and corresponding PROSPER templates, and a GAP network model. A PROSPER file is automatically created per well updating its IPR and VLP curves with the latest data, connecting it to its corresponding node in GAP and calculating its uptime. Wells with no production data are automatically inactivated. The resulting W&SNM is calibrated and optimized for the integrated production system.

The methodology presented produces an integrated model of well and surface networks which can be prepared in significantly less time than what a petroleum engineer would typically require.

Engineers are notified of any deviations from prior conditions via automated updates of the well models. This can indicate changes in the productivity index, reservoir pressure reduction, or a suboptimal artificial lift setup. Through automation scripts, hundreds of wells’ flowing bottomhole pressures can be estimated within minutes, thereby updating the well PI accordingly. The artificial lift design and optimization processes are executed with ease.

Automated well design simplifies development planning by enabling easy investigation of various types of future well completions and artificial lift. The process includes identifying workover candidates and reactivating them as required. By coupling the surface network with the reservoir model, a correct material balance is ensured by using optimized rates and pressures from GAP.

In this regard, hundreds of well models are updated based on reservoir pressures, water-cut, GOR, and productivity indices, and fed into the surface model for further calculations. Python optimization libraries are utilized to readjust the friction coefficient in flow correlations, enabling history-matching of pressure drops on hundreds of surface pipelines in a few minutes.

Well and Surface Network Modeling involves multiple manual and repetitive workflows, which not only consume time but may also be prone to errors. To address this issue, a new script-guided workflow is proposed, which minimizes human intervention in W&SNM. This approach enables engineers to streamline their modelling work and focus on more critical tasks. The process can be effortlessly replicated across various datasets, making it highly appealing for operators with multiple assets.
Geothermal Play Fairway Analysis Applicable to the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: McCarthy Kevin , Pettitt Will , Engels Ole
Published: October 2023

Geothermal Play Fairway Analysis (GPFA) is an exploration process adopted to geothermal, that integrates data of critical risk elements inherent to that specific geothermal play type. The key function of GPFA is to reduce risk and increase focus for improving exploration success rates. GPFA begins at the regional/basin scale, and progressively focuses in on the play scale. It then examines the critical risk element data to highlight which play areas have the highest likelihood of success (prospects).

Countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are taking significant steps to address the need for more energy sustainable solutions by exploring opportunities in geothermal energy. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), the largest oil-producing country in the world, has previously has recently focused on its significant geothermal resource potential. Power production in the western region alone, including Ain Al Harrah's 26.99 MWt reservoir potential, is expected to contribute to 9% of KSA's 54 GW renewable energy prospective goal. KSA has recognized the need for an energy transition as outlined in its Vision 2030 plan and intends to fully operate on renewable and low carbon energy forms by 2030. This plan and shift towards sustainable energy solutions throughout the MENA region are driven by variables such as climate change regulations, fossil fuel pricing/availability, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, power potential and cost-effectiveness of geothermal energy, reduction in pollution by geothermal power plants, and increased energy demand.

During this critical initial phase, successful geothermal reservoir exploration, characterization, and development will require a thorough understanding of the critical risk parameters inherent to functional geothermal systems. Of particular importance will be the reduction of uncertainty in the exploration phase. In this presentation, we will review several case studies of GPFA applications and investigate how these workflows may be applied to areas such as KSA and the greater MENA region. We will elaborate how GPFA workflows provide cost effective identification and development of geothermal resources, leading to significant risk reduction, increased investor confidence, and support the full-scale growth of geothermal in the coming energy transition.
A Comprehensive Review into Decarbonization Technologies Available for OSV Sector
Authors: Mukundan Gireesh , Konat Basant , Sivaprasad K , Babu P K Satheesh
Published: October 2023

Offshore support vessels (OSV) and similar vessels utilized in supporting offshore oil & gas activities have an operational profile, which is different to that of seagoing cargo ships. This paper reviews the technologies, and figure out the ones that have real potential in decarbonizing the OSV sector. It aims to assess the feasibility of the various technologies based on studies conducted on ships of various types by the presenter over the past. The techno-commercial viability of each of these technologies are commented upon. Many Energy efficiency technologies that are suitable for ships doing long voyages are non-viable for OSVs. However, the same highly fluctuating load characteristics of the OSVs makes them highly suitable for certain other technologies like Variable frequency drives, alternate marine power and shore side electricity, along with other solutions utilizing Biofuels, hydrogen fuel, methanol based solutions and so on. The presentation is concluded with a survey for selection of the most suitable technology for OSVs based on defined criteria for selection.
Breakthrough Methodology to Unlock Facilities Network Under High Temperature Scenario
Authors: Nengkoda A. , Aslai N. Y. , Almahdi R. M.
Published: October 2023

With a scenario of potential increase in operating temperature in late life, facilities network becoming more critical from a stress point of view and expose at some risky area such as metallurgy, internal coating or instrumentations as example. In theory,temperature in a pipeline is affected by the conductive and convective transfer of heat from fluid in radial direction, the accumulation of heat in the surrounding soil, or by the Joule-Thomsoneffect. The objective of this paper is to highlight a breakthrough methodology toassess the scenario of high temperature service, anticipationand their safeguard. The set of data related to facilities, internal pipeline condition, intact instrumentation, coating, corrosion monitoring, ILIsurveys including the presence of solid or water, will be considered as an input into the assessment processes. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)modeling will pinchthe probability of weaknessdue to high temperature stress, damage or topline corrosion. As result, based on simulation, under offshore environment, the high temperature will be exposed mainly at the riser area.HAZOP risk assessment is capable to define the risk associated with high temperature service and itsmitigation and the safe guard.
Lighthouse: Enabling Users to Unlock the Value in their Data by Transforming it from Information to Insights
Authors: Deighton J.
Published: October 2023

It's 6:40am and my bedside alarm goes off. Time to get up. But before my feet have even hit the floor, I'm on my phone. I run through my morning checklist. What's the weather forecast for today? What meetings do I have first thing? How well did I sleep last night? Did I sleep talk again last night? Oh, wait I have a notification of a package being delivered, back to my diary, will I be in or do I need to request the item be left in a ‘safe place’.

I get up, make a coffee, and get ready for the day ahead informed as to how to dress for the ever-changing Scottish weather, what work meetings I need to mentally prepare myself for on the way to the office and even how much brain capacity I am likely to have based on how well rested I am. All this and it's not even 8am.

I arrive at work and throughout the day I am bombarded with reminders of where I should be, things I have forgotten, things I need to do. Alerts from my dogs GPS tracking device to say he has left the house (i.e., he has been picked up by the dog walker), my washing machine has finished its wash cycle, my robot hoover is stuck on the carpet again, my iWatch reminding me to take a minute to literally just breathe! These are just the notifications I ask for, never mind the constant stream of emails and social media notifications, like a 100 people standing on the other side of a digital wall all fighting for my attention.
Use A Software-As-A-Service Solution to Digitalize Cargo Operations
Authors: Larsen Fredrik
Published: October 2023

Within cargo operations of offshore oil and gas logistics there are high operational costs, large negative impact for downtime hours and a need for good communication and flexibility, as a range of different parties collaborate in a high-paced environment exposed to many operational risks. This technical paper aims to explore the value of utilizing management software-as-a-service (SaaS) to digitalize cargo operations. The objectives include achieving end-to-end and real-time visibility, minimizing disruption and delays, improving operational efficiencies, and ultimately attaining cost savings. This paper outlines the methods, procedures, and processes involved in implementing a user-friendly, scalable, and secure platform for effective cargo planning and management. It also presents the results, observations, and conclusions derived from the improved cargo planning and management, highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs) and the potential for rental equipment cost savings, reduced operational delays, and interruptions.
The Effects of Marine Fouling in the Shipping Industry
Authors: Hewitt Chris
Published: October 2023

Fouling on the internal pipework of ships is a well know problem and marine growth prevention systems (MGPS) are the current solution. Currently copper dosing system offer the best possible solution for fouling control within a pipework system in the form of copper anodes installed at the sea water intake. Prevention of such fouling will reduce maintenance costs, increase efficiency and prolong a vessels life cycle.

Fouling is not only an issue within a pipework system but also on surfaces such as hulls, propellors and rudders This is a huge problem with industry giants spending millions looking for a suitable solution to meet the shipping industry’s net zero 2050 goals.

Hull fouling is a huge problem and is estimated to account for 9% of the global fleets fuel consumption every year, this equates to roughly 80 million tons of excess CO2 emissions and 16 billion USD in extra fuel costs. A system that can reduce this problem is at the forefront of the shipping industry’s thoughts.

Research has been undertaken to provide a solution to this worldwide biofouling problem. Initial theoretical, lab and land-based tests supporting by independent experts have led to promising results showing that Ultrasound can prevent biofouling forming on a surface. This research has been taken one step further with real world testing, to include box cooler and hull protection., All have been successful. The system consists of a low power consumption control panel and transducers which are bonded to the internal surface of the structure for easy installation and maintenance.

The next step in the development in the Ultrasound system is to scale up the vessel size to measure the protection range of this patented technology which will allow the product to be released to the industry to reduce fuel cost, bring down CO2 emissions and prevent the transfer of invasive species.
Predictive Modeling for Corrosion Rate on Pipeline Corrosion in Seawater
Authors: Mathew Anandh , Kumar Ankit , Velu Vijay
Published: October 2023

Marine oil pipelines are critical for the transportation of oil and gas from offshore production facilities to onshore processing plants. However, exposure to seawater, salt, and other environmental factors can cause corrosion in these pipelines, which can lead to costly and dangerous leaks and spills. Therefore, predicting and managing corrosion in marine oil pipelines is essential for ensuring safe and efficient operation. Uniform/general corrosion, pitting corrosion, and microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) are the most common forms of corrosion found in marine oil pipelines. These corrosion mechanisms can lead to thinning of the pipe walls and the formation of pits, which can significantly weaken the structure of the pipeline. To detect and monitor corrosion in marine oil pipelines, various in-line inspection (ILI) tools are available. Some of the most commonly used ILI tools for marine pipelines include magnetic flux leakage (MFL)[1], ultrasonic thickness measurement (UTM), and eddy current inspection (ECI). However, the existing tools are not efficient because of low accuracy. Therefore, a corrosion rate model was developed for the future rate of corrosion in marine oil pipelines.

The developed model accounts for various factors such as line diameter, line temperature, line pressure, CO2 concentration, H2S concentration, Volatile fatty acid concentration, Bacteria count(SRBs), Material of construction, service life, bicarbonate ion concentration, chloride ion concentration, sulphate ion concentration, pH, clamp/repair history and details, oil, water and gas flow rate, flow velocity and regime, Inhibitor/biocide frequency, Oil characteristics and Kinetics of reaction to estimate the expected corrosion rate over a given time period [2]. Also the developed model combines the both linear corrosion growth rate, and non-linear corrosion growth rate. The model was trained on historical data of corrosion rates for different conditions and validated on new data to ensure accuracy. Additionally, the model could be updated in real-time with sensor data from the pipeline, allowing for continuous monitoring and prediction of corrosion rates. This could help operators proactively manage and maintain the pipeline to prevent corrosion-related failures and minimize downtime. A validation study was conducted on the developed model using a dataset of real-world pipeline corrosion data. The model was trained on a subset of the data and tested on a separate subset. The results showed a high level of accuracy, with an overall accuracy of 96%. This level of accuracy suggests that the model is reliable and can be used to inform pipeline integrity management and planning with a high degree of confidence.
Solution of Suspending Submarine Pipeline with Bionic Protective Technology
Authors: Shuang LIANG , Wencheng MIAO , Shengli CHU , Jiawei Zhang , Fangwei LUO
Published: October 2023

The paper intends to propose an immediate and also permanet solution to suspending submarine pipelines, which is a fatal factor of the spilling accident, caused by scouring of current, instability of the seabed, vibration of the riser and others developed by the present authors.

Based on the marine dynamics and marine bionics, the mechanism and effect of scouring is introduced and a new protective technique is explored. As core of technique, composite material front mats are secured to the seabed using anchors and the buoyant fronds reduce the current velocity and sediment transportation to protect the pipeline rely on viscous drag, causing sediment to fall into the fronds to backfill scour pits and to form a permanent reinforced sandbank. Compared with other traditional methods, which seldom prohibit second scouring, the efficiency and feasibility of this technique could be guaranteed.

In order to demonstrate the advancement, a set of model experiments are provided to show the status of deposition with time. Slected three cases with suspending submarine pipelines in an oilfield, different applications in risers with bionic protective technology indicate that this system with the sediment deposition has meaningful influence on elimination and rectification scouring. With the characters of single effort and low input in installation, as well as maintaining, this protective technique with environmental friendly material has benefit to provide a permanent, self-maintaining solution to scouring, improve of the integrity of the suspending seabed pipeline, finally to control the spilling of oil.

Not only in suspended submarine pipelines, has bionic protective technology applied in new project, which has obtained remarkable benefit to combine protection with control. However, limited by the technic on construction and operation, the application in domestic submarine pipelines also need to be updated and optimized.