bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential effects of novel tumour-derived p53 mutations on the transformation of NIH-3T3 cells
Authors: Donninger Howard , Binder Anke , Bohm Lothar , Parker M. Iqbal
Published: December 2007

The p53 tumour suppressor gene is frequently mutated in human tumours and different tumour-derived mutations have varying effects on cells. The effect of a novel tumour-derived p53 mutation and two recently described mutations from South African breast cancer patients on the growth rate, colony formation, cell cycle arrest after irradiation and response to chemotherapeutic drugs was investigated. None of the p53 mutations had any significant effect on the inherent growth rate of the cells; however, contact inhibition of growth in two of the mutants was lost. These same two mutants formed colonies in soft agar, whereas the third mutant did not. All three of the mutants failed to show a G1 cell cycle arrest after exposure to 7 Gy of [60Co] radiation, albeit to different degrees. Cells expressing the p53 mutants were either more sensitive to cisplatin and melphalan or more resistant than the untransfected cells, depending on the mutation. However, there was no difference in response to daunorubicin treatment. These results demonstrate that different p53 mutations exert varying biological effects on normal cells, with some altering checkpoint activation more effectively than others. The data also suggest that the nature of the p53 mutation influences the sensitivity to cytostatic drugs.
Downhole Recording System for MWD
Authors: Franz David G.
Published: December 2007

Downhole recording systems are an important category of measurement-while-drilling (MWD) systems that has been obscured by the recent concentration of development work on mud-pulse communications systems. The recording system can serve a segment of the MWD market that cannot be economically served, at present, by systems having real-time data communications. This paper describes the development of a downhole recording system.
Guidelines for Compliance With Railroad Commission of Texas Statewide Rule 36 in Districts 5 and 6
Authors: Earley Randall K.
Published: December 2007

The Railroad Commission of Texas, Oil & Gas Division, amended Statewide Rule 36 on March 15, 1976. This rule applies to any operations whether drilling, production, injecting, gathering, processing, transporting, or storing hydrocarbon fluids that are part of, or directly related to, field production, transportation, and handling of hydrocarbon fluids that contain hydrogen sulfide as a constituent.

Since that time, it has become more profitable to produce from formations containing this toxic gas due to improved technology, higher oil and gas prices, and increased exploration.

An obvious consequence of the increased activity is the large number of operators encountering hydrogen sulfide and complying with Statewide Rule 36 for the first time.

This paper will explain in detail the necessary steps to be taken to comply with Statewide Rule 36 in Railroad Commission Districts 5 & 6. It will be divided into sections as it applies to drilling, work-over, producing, sweetening, pipeline, and gathering operations. The paper will discuss not only the provisions of the rule but also the district policy developed through experience with operations in the Smackover and Cotton Valley Lime formations of East Texas.
Gas Reservoir Simulation Using Semi-Implicit Rates With Multiple Compressor Stations
Authors: Baldwin James O. , Kirchner W. D. , Kennedy James H.
Published: December 2007

Reservoir simulation of oil or natural gas reservoirs enables the petroleum engineer to evaluate both the physical and economic consequences of various production scenarios (1). This paper describes a mathematical formulation devised to couple the line pressure drop and centrifugal compressor equations to a three-dimensional reservoir simulator. The assumptions applied are: The fluid flowing is a single phase gas.The compressor has a fixed horsepower and efficiency as a function of time.The delivery point pressure from the compressor station is known as a function of time.

This method has been applied to a gas-water reservoir where the production consisted of essentially a single gas phase. There was a multiple well header at the inlet of each compressor station. Four separate compressor stations were used in the case history study although the method is general in the number of stations desired. The field problem was a three-dimensional system with two non-connected layers. A successful history match was obtained over a three-year production period, and multiple prediction runs were carried out in order to maximize ultimate gas recovery.

This simulation technique will allow for multiple reservoir depletion by defining no-flow regions around each reservoir that is modeled. Simulation of gas storage reservoirs is also possible with this method to accurately predict requirements for compressor horsepower and well spacing as a function of desired deliv-erability. The gravity and frictional losses are accounted for in each tubing string to the surface. Individual layer rates are computed implicitly in the solution process with a gradient term to maintain a pressure differential between layers. Using this scheme, crossflow will occur between layers in a well-bore for areas where pressure differentials arise due to excessive production from one layer.
Procedures, Results, and Benefits of Detailed Fracture Treatment Analysis
Authors: Dobkins Terry A.
Published: December 2007

Significant progress has been made in the last two to three years regarding massive hydraulic fracture treatment design and evaluation. Much of the progress stems from new techniques for analyzing downhole treating pressures and fracture heights.

This paper presents the results of fracture treatment tests on two wells in a tight formation gas play. It gives procedures used for closure stress tests, fluid leak-off tests, and fracture treatment design. It also presents results of МНF treatment analysis to determine fracture length, height, and, in one well, reason for a screenout. The test results on the two wells showed both to have several hundred feet of fracture growth, probably below the perforated zone. This growth, identified by pressure response, was not detectable from post-fracturing temperature surveys. The techniques outlined in this study can be used to reduce treatment screenouts and increase treatment effectiveness in future stimulations.
Expansion of Solution Cavern Storage Technology
Authors: Querio Charles W. , Steiner Mark Erik , Durnell William E.
Published: December 2007

The U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve being created along the Gulf Coast will provide the largest inventory of crude oil of any nation in the world. Unique engineering has been employed to solve the problems presented in creating large volume underground caverns rapidly and for handling the high flow rates required during oil withdrawal. This paper discusses the design considerations (criteria), development schedules and methods used to meet the objectives of the program.
In Situ Coal Gasification With Heat Recuperation by Cold Water Injection
Authors: Dietz D. N. , Bruining J.
Published: December 2007

Underground heat losses are considerable and reduce the efficiency of producing coal energy. Research is in progress to adapt the oilfield technique of heat conservation.
Underground Coal Gasification Product Quality Parameters
Authors: Bruggink Paul R. , Davis Burl E.
Published: December 2007

A simplified model is described which will indicate the economic value of the raw product gas from an experimental underground coal gasification test on a real-time basis in order to aid in the optimization of the process during the course of the test. The model relates the properties of the product gas and the injection gas to the cost of producing each of five potential commercial products. This model is being utilized to evaluate data during the Gulf-DOE underground coal gasification test at Rawlins, Wyoming in the fall of 1981.
Reciprocation of Liner During Cement Displacement as Practiced in the Prudhoe Bay Unit
Authors: Turcich Thomas A. , Goad Bobby F.
Published: December 2007

Pipe reciprocation, a method proven to be successful for obtaining good full string cementing jobs is not widely used when cementing liners. Previously valid operator objections to reciprocating liners have been largely overcome in recent years.

Over 100 liners have been successfully cemented in the Prudhoe Bay Unit using reciprocation during slurry flow. The method described has been used on more than 20 jobs and is currently the method of choice.
The Tuscaloosa-Woodbine Trend: Tracking its Unique Pressure Profiles
Authors: Gill James A.
Published: December 2007

The current drilling play in the Tuscaloosa Trend across Central Louisiana from Baton Rouge eastward through Lake Pontchartrain and the Rigolets, and westward into East and Central Texas (Map) is perhaps the most exciting concentrated inland boom since "Dad" Joiner discovered the East Texas Woodbine in 1930.

Although these 20,000 foot wells may cost $10 million or even $20 million to drill and complete, the extraordinary porosities (28%) and permeabilities (200 m.d.) of the Tuscaloosa sands are so rewarding that these wells can pay out in 90 days. That's the good news. Here's the bad.

Unfortunately, a high proportion of these expensive wells are never completed - largely due to pore pressure problems.

The major drilling problems (Table 1) are caused by pressure imbalance: either too much or too little mud density in relation to the everchanging formation pore pressure(s).

The pressure profiles of these Tuscaloosa wells are rather unique, by traditional Gulf Coast standards, and require unique tracking techniques. Pressure interpretation from a single logging parameter is almost hopeless because of the many trend line shifts. But when several different pressure monitoring parameters are plotted side-by-side, in a "Pressure Evaluation Profile", pressure interpretation becomes more reliable.
An Integrated, Computerized World Energy Planning System
Authors: Dougherty E. L. , Nugent Jeffry , Johnston Jack , Zaga Bascer , Lombardino Enrico
Published: December 2007

This paper describes the principal features of an integrated, computerized world energy planning system resulting from three year's research work, at USC. The paper presents the organization of the computer system and its associated data base, reviews the major conceptual assumptions made in developing the system's computational algorithms and procedures, outlines the flow of calculations between the system's segments during a planning run, and discusses results derived during an example planning study.
Fiberglass Sucker Rods - A Futuristic Solution to Today's Problem Wells
Authors: Treadway Robert B. , Focazio Ken R.
Published: December 2007

Prior to 1979, the solution to lowering increasing fluid levels in rod pumped wells was to get a larger downhole pump and a higher capacity beam unit. This was simple to do and considered economic. However, with the shortage of steel for sucker rods and beam units, the luxury of obtaining larger units (API 456, 640, etc.) within several months has all but disappeared. Then a new solution appeared on the horizon -fiberglass sucker rods. Although they have been in existence since 1973, many problems have prevented their widespread use, until recent developments made them a suitable alternative to steel rods.

The original rods, manufactured from 1975 to 1978, were constantly plagued with rod parts due to knots in the glass fiber and gas pockets in the rod body formed during improper curing. In addition, beginning in 1978, rod parts increased due mainly to rod pinch-off at the end connections. A new rod design was developed, which incorporated many new and major modifications to correct the problems that had plagued the previous rod. The actual field performance of these new rods supports their applicability in the oil field.
Sucker Rod Pumping Systems Design - Another Look
Authors: Bommer Paul M.
Published: December 2007

This paper presents a computer generated three dimensional design profile of gear box torque, maximum rod stress, and peak beam load as a function of pumping speed and pumping depth. This approach can be used to quickly define the optimum operating limits of any beam pumping system. It can also be used to compare various design methods, operating conditions, and pumping system configurations.

The three dimensional profiles shown in this paper are accompanied by a comprehensive review of pumping unit types and design methods. A calculational technique is also suggested as an approximate guide to the use of new pumping unit geometries.
Massive Hydraulic Fracturing of High-Temperature Wells with Stable Frac Foams
Authors: Wendorff C. L. , Ainley B. R.
Published: December 2007

Recent studies under downhole conditions show the relationship between foam texture, i.e., bubble size and foam rheology. They also show that under the low shear conditions that exist in a fracture during treatment, foams behave as power law fluids. Dynamic fluid-loss testing indicates stabilized foams are some of the more efficient fracturing fluids available. Formation damage results help explain why foam-fractured wells clean up so well.

As a result of our better understanding of the properties of foam under downhole conditions, we have developed new, highly stable foam systems. These systems are 100 to 1000 times more stable than conventional foams and, therefore, greatly broaden the downhole conditions under which foams can be used.

Field results demonstrate the successful placement of large amounts of proppants with stable foams in both oil and gas wells at temperatures up to 300°F. In addition, foam-fractured wells clean up better and, therefore, pay out faster than wells fraced with conventional fluids.
Layer Definition and Pressure Buildup Case Histories in a Carbonate Reservoir
Authors: Vadgama Usman N. , Arifi Nagmeddin A.
Published: December 2007

Pressure buildup analysis theory becomes complicated in a multi-layer reservoir where several layers are communicating through the well bore only. This paper presents case histories of pressure buildup analysis in a layered carbonate reservoir where an unusual amount of information on the characteristics of the layers is available. The productive formation consists of several dolomite and limestone layers separated by thin tight streaks. Lack of pressure communication between layers has been determined by pressure measurements in the individual layers using the Repeat Formation Tester (RFT). The field results give an example of the use of the Repeat Formation Tester to define reservoir layering in a carbonate reservoir. Results of the two-dimensional radial model simulated pressure buildup performance are compared to the actual measured pressure buildup data.
Pulse Testing in the Statfjord Field
Authors: Rathbone Monroe Jackson , Unneberg Arild , Cull Geoffrey W. L.
Published: December 2007

Pulse testing in a major oil reservoir in the North Sea has proven useful in determining inter-layer communication for reservoir modeling and gas breakthrough prediction. In order to predict the results of the high pressure gas flood in the Statfjord Field, it was critical to determine if the shale layers formed continuous vertical-flow barriers. Therefore, two pulse tests were performed in the Statfjord reservoir in April 1980, These tests were designed to confirm interwell communication between the gas injector and the oil producers and to provide data for calculating reservoir gas injection capacity.

Design calculations using average reservoir parameters estimated the pulse response to be about 0.2 psi per 10,000 STB/d of pulse rate. This small pressure response was a significant feature of these tests; however, high resolution pressure gauges proved adequate for monitoring the pulse response. Interpretation was complicated not only by the small pressure responses but also by the cyclical pressure effects caused by lunar and solar gravitational forces on the fluids in the reservoir. This effect, noticed on all the data, was "filtered-out" by three methods of analysis.

The first test responded as predicted from the design calculations, and the results gave conclusive evidence of communication. It also verified that the estimated average reservoir parameters were reasonable. The second test possibly showed a small response, but the results were inconclusive.

This paper presents a case history using pulse testing as a reservoir evaluation tool. The methods of design, the analysis of the raw data, and the interpretation of the results are detailed.
Taking an Oil and Gas Company Public
Authors: Wesneski Lawrence Edward
Published: December 2007

The increasing capital requirements in the energy industry have led a number of private, independent oil and gas companies to turn to the public market as a source for funding future growth. The principal asset of many of these companies, and often the primary determinant of value in the public market, is the firm's oil and gas reserves. Estimates of hydrocarbon reserves are usually based on studies and reports prepared by independent petroleum engineers. Although they play a key role in taking a company public, petroleum engineers usually do not get exposed to the entire process. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the process of taking a company public and to clarify the petroleum engineer's role in the process.
Exchange Offer for Drilling Fund Partnerships Source for New Exploration and Production Companies of the Future
Authors: Ouzts Johnie M.
Published: December 2007

The exchange of stock for interests in limited partnerships is a promising new way to create an "instant" oil company. Several relatively small exchanges were successfully accomplished during the past two years; a company has now been created that has producing and exploration properties valued at well over $600 million.
Rigorous Computer Simulation of CO2 Dehydration Facilities
Authors: Best Jim W.
Published: December 2007

The possible development of the Bravo Dome Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Gas Field located in northeastern New Mexico has led to a detailed study of CO2 dehydration design using computer simulation. Two commercially available computer programs from the ChemShare® Corporation were used to simulate actual CO2 dehydration test results. Amoco is currently in the process of using these programs to aid in preliminary design of a full-scale dehydration facility.
A Dual Porosity CNL Logging System
Authors: Davis R. R. , Hall J. E. , Boutemy Y. L. , Flaum C.
Published: December 2007

The two-detector CNL neutron porosity logging system has been commercially available for about 10 years. It provides an accurate log when the amount of elements with high thermal neutron capture cross section (Σ) in the formation is small. Corrections are required to the measured porosity when this is not the case. In order to take advantage of the better measurement statistics obtainable with thermal neutron detectors and the insensitivity of epithermal neutron detectors to the presence of elements with large Σ, a new CNL logging tool incorporating two thermal and two epithermal neutron detectors has been designed.

Two separate porosity measurements are thus obtained—one from each pair of detectors. In "clean" formations the measured porosity values agree. However, in formations containing high Σ elements (such as shales), the porosity measured by the epithermal detectors will read lower and agree more closely with the density-derived porosity. The epithermal measurement thus provides better gas detection in shaly gas sands. A comparison of the two porosity measurements can provide an indication of the clay content of the formation.

A data processing technique, utilizing the individual detector counting rates rather than their ratios, is used to derive the porosity values. This technique provides considerable improvement with regard to correction for borehole effects. An adaptive filtering scheme has been used to minimize the statistical uncertainty of the porosity measurement. This filter allows quick response to borehole environment changes while reducing statistical variation in slowly varying zones.

Log examples are shown which illustrate the shale effects on both the thermal and epithermal porosity measurements. Also presented is an example showing the improvements due to the use of the new data processing technique. The advantage of the epithermal measurement for gas detection can be seen in a representative example.
Comparison of Methods for Measurement of Oil Saturation
Authors: Donaldson Erle C. , Staub Harrison L.
Published: December 2007

The City of Long Beach, California, in cooperation with the Department of Energy, conducted a program to obtain oil saturation data in the HXa unconsolidated sand of the Wilmington Field, after initiation of a mi cellar-polymer project. A core analysis program was coupled with open-hole and cased-hole logging, and the single-well tracer test to obtain a comparative analysis of current commercial methods that are available for the determination of oil saturation.

Five wells were redrilled from the surface and five were milled out adjacent to the HXa sand giving a total of ten wells completed in the zone on which the comparative analysis was conducted. Cased-hole logs were also run as follows: dual-spacing thermal neutron decay time log, dual-detector neutron lifetime log, and carbon-oxygen log. The single-well tracer test was performed in one well using ethyl acetate.

The measurements of oil saturation show considerable disagreement between methods. Core analysis was impaired by loss of fluids and expansion. Comparison of the vertical profile of log analysis exhibits differences due to limitations of the individual methods; combined analysis of several logs is considered more reliable. The best average formation saturation was obtained from the single-well partition tracer test.
Results of Hydraulic Fracturing Treatment BHP Analysis in Peru
Authors: Erdle J. C. , Bennaceur K. , Bell J. , Bezier C.
Published: December 2007

Eight fracture treatments conducted without packers were monitored in Peru. Horizontal and vertical fractures were detected. The fracture geometry model characterizing the bottomhole pressure behavior of the vertically fractured zones depended on depth. Khristianovic behavior (BHP decrease with time) was exhibited between 1500 and 2000 feet. Perkins and Kern behavior (BHP increases with time) occurred at depths greater than 2000 feet. The horizontal fractures were created at depths less than 1500 feet.

Measured tubing friction gradients for both crosslinked and non-crosslinked guar gum based frac fluids correlated well with published pipe loop data. Calculated gradients based on power law coefficients determined from Farm experiments were extremely high. The experiments indicated a critical need for an appropriate rheological model and laboratory test apparatus for gelled fluids.

Fracture parameters derived from Nolte's pressure decline analysis technique were reasonable, providing valuable insight to treatment diagnosis and design. The refinement of equations for perforation and fracture friction pressure drop (or fluid rheology) is needed to increase confidence in quantitative analysis results.
Steamflooding As an Alternative EOR Process for Light Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Hanzlik Edward J.
Published: December 2007

Past laboratory work and published field test results have shown that oil distillation during steamflooding of light crude oils can be a very efficient recovery mechanism. Increases in oil price and revised tax laws have prompted a renewed interest in steamflooding light-oil reservoirs. This paper seeks to stimulate consideration of steamflooding as a viable alternative to chemical enhanced recovery techniques in shallow, light-oil reservoirs.
Use of Well Logs to Provide Formation Design Values for Hydraulic Fracture Treatments
Authors: Ameri S. , Rieke H. H.
Published: December 2007

Considerable emphasis is being placed upon the use of hydraulic fracturing to stimulate hydrocarbon bearing formations, especially those with low permeability. Unfortunately, the optimization of these fracture stimulations in open and cased holes is impaired due to the lack of information on design parameter values.

This study presents wireline tool usage in providing proper design parameter values for hydraulic fracture treatments and in evaluating the success of such a treatment. Examples of logging suites are provided and methods are presented for converting log measurements into design values. Techniques are discussed and a matrix chart has been developed for relating tool capabilities with design requirements. Recent developments of new logging tools, advances in upgrading existing wireline tool capabilities and digital methods of interpretation have provided industry with a better means of obtaining these design values.

Basic input data required for hydraulic fracture treatment design include information on formation thickness, lithology of the host rocks and candidate treatment zone, permeability, pore volume, temperature, identification of existing fractures, fracture gradients, elastic moduli, perforation verification in cased holes, type and saturation of fluids in the pore space, influx of fluids, cement bonding in cased wells, casing integrity and fracture closure pressure. Assessment of the effectiveness of the fracturing operation can be obtained by determining fluid influx and fracture height,
Oil Production in Shallow Reservoirs By Carbon Dioxide Injection
Authors: Klins Mark A. , Farouq Ali S. M.
Published: December 2007

Currently there is a great deal of interest in carbon dioxide for the recovery of both heavy and light oils. This paper deals with the efficiency of gaseous carbon dioxide as a recovery agent for moderately viscous oils. The paper gives model results, and compares and contrasts the findings with laboratory and field test observations, pointing out the range of conditions over which carbon dioxide is likely to be effective. Also, the current status of carbon dioxide for light oils is considered.

It was found that over the viscosity range of 1 to 1000 centipoises, carbon dioxide was superior to nitrogen injection, natural depletion, or waterflooding for oil viscosities above 70 cp. The gain over waterflooding was as much as 9 percentiles in oil recovery, being greater for the more viscous crudes. Oil saturation was an important variable as oil recovery decreased rapidly with a decrease in saturation. Another significant factor affecting ultimate oil recovery was the critical gas saturation. Viscous oils showed a 27% increase in recovery as the critical gas saturation varied from 0 to 10%. The blowdown recovery upon curtailment of carbon dioxide injection was about 1%; field values are as high as 4%. Reasons for this discrepancy are outlined. The amount of carbon dioxide left in the reservoir was used as a measure of the efficiency of the process; it was high for low oil saturations, especially for the more viscous oils.

An economic analysis of the carbon dioxide injection process showed that the economics are tenuous; a variety of factors in addition to the oil price would determine the economic viability of the process.
Exploration Drilling In Remote Areas
Authors: Whitley W R
Published: December 2007

In 1967, Woodside Petroleum Development Pty. Ltd., then Burmah Oil Company of Australia Ltd., drilled its first well on the North West Shelf, Ashmore Reef No. 1

Within the oil industry, Australia was considered logistically a remote area of the World, and the North West Shelf, one of the most remote areas of Australia.

A description of the problems overcome to achieve the commencement of oil exploration in North West Shelf waters, with a main operations base in Perth, 2000 Km distance from the well location and a forward supply base at Broome, 400 Km from Ashmore Reef, up to offshore drilling in the 1980's is presented in the following six topics: Construction of offshore refuelling installations for helicopters.Commissioning of temporary forward bases as drilling permit areas decreed.Setting up of communication network from Perth to Broome and drilling rigs.Logistic problems with air, land and sea distances from Perth to drilling areas.Drilling in waters under threat of tropical cyclone activity.Present day operations.

An update of current operations in North West waters will be given at conference time and will not be included in the published paper due to the time element involved.
Status of Oil Exploration in Australia
Authors: Fetters R T
Published: December 2007

Exploration activity in Australia has increased steadily since the mid-1970s following the downturn seen at the beginning of the decade. Almost four million square kilometres is now held under permit, and competition is strong for the available acreage.

Seismic activity has reflected this upturn in interest, with 63,000 kilometres of data acquired in 1980 and almost as much again in 1981. It is intended that the number of seismic crews operating in Australia, both on and offshore, will be substantially increased by the end of 1981, allowing further enlargement of the industry's seismic data acquisition capabilities.

Drilling has increased similarly since the mid-1970s following the unsuccessful activities of the previous few years. Approximately 140 wells are to be completed in 1981, and with the arrival of several new rigs in the country it is anticipated that the number of wells drilled in the coming years will steadily increase.

Up until the present, virtually all exploration wells have been drilled in areas of known hydrocarbon occurrence, such as the Cooper, Surat and Gippsland Basins. Few wells have been truly wildcat despite the fact that many of Australia's sedimentary basins have not yet been explored by modern methods. The scope for exploration in new areas is extremely wide, and the chances of an economically significant discovery must therefore be quite high.

Expenditure on exploration has increased at an even greater rate than activity, and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years. This overall increase in industry activity points to a very optimistic future for both oil exploration in Australia and for the country's self-sufficiency in energy.
Oil Muds in South East Asia
Authors: McNaughton Peter J.
Published: December 2007

Where severe drilling conditions exist, especially the combination of water-sensitive sloughing shales, abnormal formation pressures and high bottom-hole temperatures, several operators in South East Asia regularly use "invert emulsion" oil muds to drill and complete trouble-free gauge holes.

This paper will review oil mud operations in the South-East Asian region, and a case history will be presented to illustrate the succesful use of oil mud in the development of a major Indonesian gas field.

Some misconceptions still surround the use of oil muds. Modem oil muds are stable, practical and relatively simple drilling fluids which may be scientifically formulated to match the most severe drilling conditions. This paper will attempt to clarify some of the misunderstandings commonly associated with oil muds.

The range of application and advantages of an oil mud will be demonstrated, and the physical and chemical properties of a typical invert emulsion oil mud will be discussed.

Finally, the key to an efficient oil mud program lies in the planning stage. Using examples from one Indonesian operator's extensive experience, the various economic and logistic factors to be considered when using oil mud will be discussed.
Prospects and Constraints of Oil Exploration in Bangladesh
Authors: Lietz Juergen K. , Kabir Jahangir
Published: December 2007

Within the last three years large efforts have been undertaken to explore the oil potential in Bangladesh. Prospecting for oil in an already well known gas province appears to be a challenge which is presently met by intensive seismic surveys, stratigraphical and geochemkal investigations and exploration drilling.

Seismostratigraphic correlations nearly all-over Bangladesh appear to change some concepts held so far on the stratigraphic age of different sedimentary sequences. The results from seismic stratigraphy are partly in contradiction to the conventional stratigraphic framework and recent palynoiogical results. Nevertheless they are presented in this paper as a further approach to discuss still open questions on the hydrocarbon inventory of the Bengal Basin. The results of setsmo-stratigraphy shed a different light on different structural parts of Bangladesh regarding their oil potential.
Safety Principles for Design of Offshore Units
Authors: Roeren E. M. Q.
Published: December 2007

The concept of "defence tines" may be used to illustrate the safety barriers for mobile units.

Defence line 1 is characterized by the structural concept, the stress level, the number and properties of stress concentrations, the material properties, the fabrication standard, supervision during fabrication etc In other words, the inherent standard or quality of the as-built and delivered unit.

Defence line 2 is characterized by the quality of in-service inspection and control, as well as the general up-keep of the structure and its equipment.

Defence line 3 is characterized by the capability of the unit to withstand credible failures of vital stractural elements, whether due to internal causes (eg. fatigue cracks progressing too far) or external causes (eg. damage due to accidental loads).

Defence line 4 is characterized by the capability of the unit to provide survival possibilities to the personnel on board when a grave accident has taken place, this is primarily a matter of giving ample time for rescue of people.

The paper will discuss these defence lines with particular reference to semisubmersibles and, moreover, provide information on items of particular importance for such mobile units.

As it turns out, dramatic changes in current designs are not involved, but rather that of filling some important "holes" in the established practice of design and in-service routines and tasks.

Statistical data for the period 1970–80 will be given for all types of mobile units.
Advances In Tubing Connection Testing
Authors: Pyle C. L.
Published: December 2007

Producing hot, high rate, high pressure wells can subject tubing threads to compression and tensile forces that exceed the scope of current published data and specifications.

Mobil Oil Indonesia, contractor to Pertamina, Indonesia's National Oil Company initiated the development of test apparatus and test procedures to simulate actual downhole stresses on tubulars. Mobil's intention was to fill the gap in the published data and to determine the cause of thread leaks in Aran wells. It was postulated that the leaks were the result of extreme compression and tensile forces acting on the tubing threads. Weils completed in the Arun Limestone are capable of producing 250 MMSCFD at well-head pressures and temperatures of 4000 psi and 347° F. Forces on the tubing string varying from 350,000 lbs compression to nearly 500.000 lbs tension during pressure and temperature reversals between conditions of shut-in, producing and stimulating.

The test apparatus and procedure can detect thread leaks while subjecting test specimens to: 7500 psi internal pressureCompression and tensile loads up to 500,000 lbs.Temperatures up to 350° F.Quenching of internal pin surface such that the temperature is reduced from 350° F to 150° in

Application of the equipment and test procedures confirmed the failure mechanism and helped evaluate other thread designs for use in the harsh Aran wellhore environment.
Lateral Vibration Of Drill Pipe Including Wall Reaction
Authors: Hsu Feng-Hsiang , Wilhoit James C.
Published: December 2007

Publication Rights Reserved

The impact of a drill pipe on the wall of a borehole is treated as a time-dependent force acting laterally on the pipe assuming the existence of periodic motion. The impact force is estimated by Hertz theory of impact. The solution obtained must satisfy the constraint conditions to approximate the impact action.

Introduction

Transverse vibration of drill pipe is investigated here to yield some notion of the stresses induced in the pipe by the motion. The problem is highly non-linear in nature not only due to the non-uniformity of the drill string, inelasticity of the wall of the borehole, nonlinearity of the various forces induced by the presence of the non-Newtonian drilling mud, etc., and also due to the notion itself if the wall is replaced by a spring. From an engineering point of view, a simple model constructed by neglecting all the non-linearities due to materials will reveal some aspects of the effect on stresses due to motion alone.

Some similarities can be observed between the vibration of drill pipe and the simple one-dimensional mass-spring system with clearance if the elastic impact between pipe and wall is replaced by a non-linear spring [see Fig. 1]. In general, there is no assurance of the existence of a simple periodic motion even for the one-dimensional simple system if viscous damping is included and an arbitrary force is applied. However, under certain conditions, a simple periodic motion can be obtained. For instance, if the energy fed into the system is such that it balances the energy dissipation due to damping at any moment, then the system can be regarded as an undamped system. For such a system, a simple periodic motion with fixed mode does exist.

On the assumption that a prolonged periodic motion deserves more attention on account of the fatigue effect on the material, and also that a suitably constructed periodic motion serves as an average of some random or highly complicated notion over a certain range, this paper treats the case of simple periodic motion of the system. A sample section of pipe which vibrates in a fixed mode, between two adjacent nodal points, is isolated from the drill string. This sample section is considered as being simply supported. The impact is considered as a time dependent force acting laterally on the pipe. Thus the impact problem is changed to a forced vibration problem under the assumption of simple periodic motion. However, the solutions obtained from the forced vibration system must satisfy a set of constraint conditions in order to interpret it as the solution of the impact problem.

MATHEMATICAL MODEL AND EQUATION OF MOTION

If the drill string is considered as a uniform cylinder and the borehole is treated as a vertical straight hole, then the sample section and a typical pipe element can be regarded as shown in Fig. 1.

In Fig. 1, the lateral force term FL includes the impact force, the inertia force of the pipe and the inertia force of the fluid contained in the pipe.
Rama Reservoir Model Study
Authors: Kovacs P. P.
Published: December 2007

Although the Rama Field is known to have a large volume of oil·in-place, performance data indicate a relatively low primary recovery. PERTAMINA and IIAPCO jointly performed a reservoir model study to determine the potential for improving performance by supplementing primary recovery techniques now in effect. This paper provides a case study in the use of computer models to simulate a producing reservoir. The paper describes the development of the model and the manner in which it was used to gain a better understanding of the reservoir mechanics unique to the Rama Field. The study resulted in a more accurate assessment of primary recovery potential, and it defined the improvement in performance that can be expected through a program of infill drilling and secondary recovery techniques.
The Exploration Applications of Seismic DHI Analysis in the Malay Basin
Authors: Carson T G , Phipps G G
Published: December 2007

Over the last 15 years or so, improvements in reflection seismic acquisition, processing and interpretation methods have enabled the geophysicist to interpret the presence of hydrocarbons directly from seismic data. This is especially true in Tertiary clastic basins.

Success in predicting the presence of hydrocarbons on seismic data depends on the interpreter 's ability to recognize the effects they have on seismic reflections. These characteristic changes in reflection pattern are called direct hydrocarbon indicators or "DHFs" Under idealized conditions, DHI analysis can yield valuable exploration information concerning the presence, thickness, lateral limits and type of hydrocarbons present in a structure. Information concerning the presence, extent and seriousness of drilling hazards related to shallow gas can also sometimes be obtained.

EPMI geophysicists have been usig DHI analysis of seismic data to assist in locating and planning exploration and delineation wells in the Malay Basin. The degree of success of DHI predictions has varied markedly. The key factors that effect success have been data quality including near surface interference problems, bed thickness versus resolution restrictions, facies conditions including the presence or absence of coals, and low gas saturation. To date, a fairly high degree of success has been obtained in predicting the presence of hydrocarbons in non-coaly environments up to depths of about 7000'. Success in mapping the lateral limits of these recognized hydrocarbon zones usually depends on bed thickness and may be complicated by the potential presence of low gas saturation below the hydrocarbon/water contacts, In thick reservoir units it is sometimes possible to locate and map gas/ oil and oil/ water contacts thus providing the explorationist with a tool for recognizing and mapping the extent of different fluid systems in multi-reservoir fields.
Star: Shallow Time Anomaly Replacement
Authors: Marcoux Michael O. , Lu Lee
Published: December 2007

The presence of spatially varying low velocity thin layers in the near surface can account for the surface consistent terms in the description of reflection times. If the same low velocity material occurs at a greater depth in the section then its effect on reflections will vary with reflector depth. The dynamic characteristics of such a "buried static" feature is discussed and a subsurface consistent, time-variant static description is given.

The description that is obtained of this moveout phenomenon is asymtotically static, which is to say, as the buried LVT approaches the surface, the description is identical to surface consistent statics. Thus, conventional statics' modelling is a special case of STAR corrections. Furthermore, like statics, the fundamental information required is the vertical transmission time through the anomaly. However, this simplified theory makes no attempt to account for the effects of wave front "healing" which will modify predictions based on ray considerations only. This aspect is investigated using wave equation modelling.

The effect on the reflection time curve of a reflector, due to the presence of buried stream channels, shallow gas "pockets" and erosional (or dissolved) surfaces with low velocity fill, can be modelled as a low velocity thin layer (LVT). The distortion of RMS velocity measurements and of the structure picture represented by the stack section, due to such buried static anomalies, could be substantially reduced.
Static And Dynamic Failure Of Rock Under Chisel Loads
Authors: Singh Madan M. , Johnson Arvid M.
Published: December 2007

The mechanism of failure under a drill bit is still improperly understood in spite of several investigations of the subject. Generally, the cratering process under static loading conditions is considered to be similar to that achieved dynamically by impact. But this paper attempts to indicate that, although the sequence of fracturing in the two cases appear to be indentical, at least some dissimilarities exist. For example, the width-to-depth ratios of the craters vary to some extent, and the amount of energy consumed per unit of volume of craters is unequal for the two different loading conditions.

A complex brittle-elastic-viscous-plastic rheological model could probably explain in detail the phenomena of failure beneath a drill bit for the types of rocks tested. The types of fracturing seem to be similar under the two loading conditions, so that a model with a viscosity term may be assumed to explain effects of differences in loading rates. Further, the generation of extension fractures may be explained by a brittle-elastic model, and the de formation of the intensely fractures zone around the tip of the wedge-shaped bits might be described by a plastic model.

Extension fractures formed beneath the bit are important to a study of volume-energy relationships, because the fractures provide new free surfaces into which chips can be developed.
Offshore Loading of Oil and Gas — How Increased Availability can be Achieved
Authors: Misund A , Tveit O
Published: December 2007

The paper will first give a brief summary on the technological developments of offshore loading systems and a prediction of future trends and challenges.

Based on previous studies of several different design concepts, the paper will deal with the methods applied in the analysis and factors contributing to the unavailability of offshore loading systems.

The following categories are discussed: –Environmental factors limiting the availability of the plant.–Structural failures, non-scheduled repairs and inspection.–Process system and operational failures and the associated repiar, causing off hire.

The result of the availability analysis will be identification of components and conditions contributing to availability.

It will be shown how the knowledge in turn can be utilized in formulating redundancy and more specific design related criteria and guiding inspection and maintenance during operation. The use of the analysis in evaluating relative value of different design solutions will be discussed.

The last part of the paper will give specific guidance and recommendation on design, fabrication and operation of offshore loading systems based on many years of involvement in ail phases of offshore loading systems, i.e. –research–conceptual evaluation–certification–in-service inspection–rule and guidance development.
Transmission, Storage And Export Of Product From The Arun Field
Authors: Soeryanto Joko
Published: December 2007

Arun LNG plant is the second Indonesian LNG plant. It began production of LNG in August 1978. The plant site is located in the North Coast of Sumatra, is owned by PERTAMINA. Plant feed is supplied from the Arun gas condensate field located approximately 30 kms from the plant.

The overall complex is designed to produce LNG equivalent to 18 MM NM3 per day of gas, and 12,000 M3 per day of stabilized condensate.

Field facilities produce and separate gas and condensate for delivery through separate pipelines to the LNG plant. At the plant, condensate is stablized and stored in four 78,705 M3 floating roof tanks and subsequently shipped in conventional tankers, moored offshore.

The gas is treated, dehydrated and liquefied. Gas treating is accomplished by the Benfieid Hi-Pure process. Lique-faction is accomplished using the propane pre-cooled multi-component refrigerant process.

Refrigerant components required for the liquefaction process are produced from two fractionation trains.

Gas is processed by three parallel, identical, treating, dehydration, liquefaction trains each designed to produced about 10,700 cubic meter per day of LNG in storage. LNG is stored in three 127,200 cubic meter storage tanks. From the tanks, the LNG is pumped to the harbour area for loading into LNG tankers.

The overall complex includes the plant and harbour operations plus a complete infrastructure of housing and utilities systems to support 5000 people.

Current plans inlude the expansion of the plant by adding two liquefaction trains.

These are scheduled to start-up in 1984.