bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Outcrop Analog of Kharaib & Shu'aiba Reservoirs: The Urgonian Platform of Southeastern France (Gard and Ardèche)
Authors: Bastide Fanny , Massonnat Gérard , Virgone Aurélien , Pabian-Goyheneche Cécile
Published: November 2012

The Barremo-Aptian Urgonian formation is widespread in southeastern France. This formation is a giant (20 000 km2) limestone platform deposited along the northern Tethyan margin during the lower Cretaceous, on the Vocontian basin margin. The Urgonian carbonates are mostly composed of rudist facies interupted by several Orbitolinids-rich level. This formation has an equivalent in time in the Middle-East series: the Kharaib, Hawar and the very beginning of the Shu’aiba formations. The quality and diversity of Urgonian outcrops in southeastern France lead that formation to be a good reference proxy of Middle-East reservoirs and to be used for the assessment of sedimentary internal architecture.

A work program focused on the appraisal of geometrical and petrophysical heterogeneity in Urgonian has integrated the acquisition of multi-scales static and dynamic data: outcrop studies (facies, fractures, microfauna ...), well drilling, well tests, aerial photographs, springs and aquifer survey. A huge database has been constituted, it comprises several key sections and more than 60 vertical wells drilled in the Urgonian aquifer, 40 well tests and survey of 13 springs during one year.

Three sequences have been described in the Upper Barremian (Ba3, Ba4 and Ba5) and two sequences in the Lower Aptian (A1 and A2). The existing biostratigraphic chart built for several years by Annie Arnaud-Vanneau for the northern region (Vercors) has been improved and completed including the new data from the western zone (Gard and Ardèche).

Through a multidisciplinary approach integrating sedimentology, hydrogeology and structural geology, a new conceptual model for the architecture of the Urgonian deposits on the edge of the platform is proposed. In the study area, three N110° normal faults subdivide the domain into four tilted blocks. The differential subsidence related to this faults activity makes important variations in thickness and facies distribution according to the location in the blocks.
Joint AVO Inversion for Time-Lapse Elastic Reservoir Properties
Authors: Kato Ayato , Stewart Robert
Published: November 2012

For time-lapse seismic inversion, it is common that baseline and monitor survey data are separately inverted to elastic properties. Elastic property changes are obtained from difference in the two inversion results. Buland and Quair (2006) proposed novel time-lapse inversion method based on the Bayesian theorem, in which posterior distribution of elastic property change are obtained from seismic data difference between two surveys along with the prior information. However, individual elastic properties at baseline (or repeat) survey cannot be simultaneously obtained. Moreover, they assumed constant wavelet although individual wavelets are commonly used in different vintage data. Therefore, to overcome the limitations, we have developed a new time-lapse seismic inversion method. The method uses both baseline and monitor survey data, instead of only uses the difference, and simultaneously obtains elastic properties (e.g., P- and S-wave velocities and density) at baseline survey and the changes at monitor survey as well as the uncertainties. Furthermore, the developed method allows us to use individual wavelet in each seismic data, resulting in multicomponent data which can be used. The method is applied to Hangingstone oilfield in Canada, where heavy-oil with 8.5 °API has been produced by SAGD method and time-lapse seismic data were acquired; baseline survey in 2002 and repeat survey in 2006. Both P-P and P-S data are available in the monitor survey while only P-P data is available in the baseline survey. We use all the available seismic data to obtain initial elastic properties at the baseline survey, which reasonably well agree with well log data, as well as the elastic property change due to steam injection. Furthermore, the elastic property change is converted to temperature change within reservoir by using heavy-oil rock physics model, which are reasonably consistent with measurement at observation wells.
The Challenge of Developing Complex Marginal Fields, Example of Ne Brazil
Authors: Guerreiro L. , Carvalho A. , Maciel C. , Sousa J. , Caetano H. , Soares L. , Carneiro S. , Castanho S. , Machado V.
Published: November 2012

Marginal fields based upon complex reservoirs present to the operating companies real challenges in terms of the implementation of viable full field development plans (FFDP). Small NPVs imply a constant and tight costs control and a careful balance between the data gathering cost and the value of the information that can be retrieved from that data.

The fields under analysis are located in the onshore Potiguar Basin, NE Brazil. Productive reservoirs are composed by shallow interbedded sandstone channels and fine shale laminations with complex geometry. Seismic imaging has very poor quality and petrophysical interpretation presents a major challenge due to the presence of fresh formation water.

The absence of strong aquifers associated with low initial reservoir pressures and a negligible GOR led to the use of artificial lift and, in a near future, the implementation of a water injection scheme. The oil is paraffinic with low pour point temperatures, which easily creates conditions for high deposition of paraffins. All these factors induce very low productivities, ranging from 100 to 300 bbld with high water cuts.

An out of the box thinking attitude was fundamental for Partex to be able to design and implement a sound FFDP, which included the building of consistent static and dynamic models, where uncertainties were identified and quantified. Uncertainty reduction was tackled both through planified but limited data gathering campaigns and compilation of existing analogue data. Operational cost reduction without compromising HSE standards was implemented through innovative well drilling and design and a phased development scheme associated with long term testing (early production schemes).
Wide Azimuth Seismic Processing for UAE Carbonate Reservoir Characterization
Authors: Guilloux Yoann , Tarrass Issam , Boelle Jean-Luc , Landa Evgeny , Buzlukov Vadim , Lafram Abderrahim , Radigon Michel , Mahgoub Mohamed
Published: November 2012

We present in this work an exhaustive seismic study which was performed on a subset of a wide azimuth Ocean Bottom Cable seismic acquisition shot over a carbonate field from the U.A.E.

A first challenge was to reprocess these data ensuring that the azimuthal information is properly preserved all along the sequence. An additional challenge is related to the very shallow water environment which brings complexity like dispersive ground-roll and water layer related guided waves, multiples which can be generated at sea-surface, sea-floor or internally, near-surface heterogeneities.

On top of that the high velocities which are encountered in these carbonate formations are detrimental to a high resolution description of reservoirs.

Two main issues are presented:

Wide azimuth processing: the whole sequence was designed in order to preserve the azimuthal information. Multiples were attenuated in a cascaded approach including 3D predictive deconvolution and wide azimuth high resolution radon filtering. The Common Offset Vector strategy was followed at the imaging step to build 3D Common Image Gathers versus offset and azimuth, which enables to apply an azimuthally variant residual velocity correction and then stack all azimuthal contributions in an optimal manner. This azimuth friendly processing delivers gathers which are ready for azimuthal amplitude analysis. Heterogeneities and fracture characterization: we tested a newly developed technique for imaging diffractions and compared it to the azimuthal amplitude analysis performed on Common Imaged Gathers.

This pilot processing study enabled to set up an operational wide azimuth processing sequence on this dataset, several processing scenarii could be tested and compared. In particular the sequence for attenuation of multiples was considered efficient, bringing a lot of character to the final result.

The implementation of multi-azimuth Diffraction Imaging over this carbonate reservoir is proving very encouraging. Numerous detected features display geologically meaningful characteristics, some of them being not visible on conventional structural attributes. This study would be among the first applications of the methodology with tangible results providing more static and dynamic fracture data become available for calibration.
Modeling of EOR PVT Data using PC-SAFT Equation
Authors: Pedersen Karen S. , Leekumjorn Sukit , Krejbjerg Kristian , Azeem Jawad
Published: November 2012

The paper presents a C7+ characterization procedure for the PC-SAFT equation of state. The characterization procedure was applied to model both routine and EOR PVT for a Middle East reservoir fluid. The injection gas contained 60 mole% of CO2. No other parameter adjustment was needed than to determine the optimum binary interaction parameters for CO2. Among the data matched was a liquid-liquid critical point on a swelling curve for a CO2 mol% of 43. The PC-SAFT simulation results suggest that the fluid for this CO2 concentration has two critical points. The one at the lower temperature agrees with the critical point found in the swelling test. The study shows that the potential of the PC-SAFT equation of state in the oil industry is not limited to modeling of asphaltene precipitation and other specialized applications. Extensive routine and EOR PVT data including a minimum miscibility pressure has been modeled using the PC-SAFT equation. Unlike cubic equations, a volume correction does not have to be applied to match liquid densities.
Tight Gas Exploration Potential of Middle Triassic to Early Jurassic Successions in Abu Dhabi
Authors: Taher Ahmed , Al Shateri Abdulla , Al Mehsin Khalil , Witte Johan , Al Zaabi Mohamed , Obaid Khalid
Published: November 2012

Middle Triassic to Early Jurassic formations were not previously considered as exploration objectives. Only a limited wells penetrate these formations and most of these wells were targeting the deeper Khuff and pre-Khuff reservoirs. Stratigraphically, the section is comprised of sequences of shallow marine mixed carbonates intercalating with shale, sandstone and anhydrite streaks. These formations, although they exhibit gradual thickening from the north towards the south direction, yet they show remarkable lateral consistency, both in lithology and log response. Primary and secondary porosity are generally poor in these formations, reflecting the deep burial depth and the intercalation of shale and anhydrite beds with the carbonate reservoirs. Structurally, the formations have been subjected to numerous phases of tectonic deformation that have affected the facies variations and reservoir development. Evidence indicates that the early phase of Qatar Arch development and the southeast Mender palaeohigh were tectonically active during the Triassic time.

The Lower Jurassic and Upper Triassic formations have discontinuous and moderate source rock development. Sapropelic kerogen constitutes the dominant type of organic matter, however, also humic type is present but in minor quantities (Lutfi, 1987; Hassan, 1989). The top Triassic maturation modeling showed various degrees of thermal maturation ranging from mature to intensively mature stages. Interpretation of the maturation regime indicated that most of onshore Abu Dhabi is in the dry gas generation window. The southern offshore area is within the wet gas generation, while the northern offshore is still in the oil generation window. The relatively lean source rock intervals found within the Lower Jurassic and Triassic Formations suggest that there is a significant charge contribution from the deeper Silurian Hot Shale source rocks.

Pronounced gas shows were experienced while drilling some of the offshore and onshore structures. The well data indicates that the Izhara, Hamlah, Minjur and Marrat Formations are developed in onshore Abu Dhabi. Sedimentary patterns, facies variations and log response of the Lower Izhara, Minjur and possibly Upper Gulailah Formations suggest the presence of shale gas developed in these formations.
Real Time Data Empowers ADCO Smart Fields
Authors: Bin Amro Ahmed A. , Suryanarayana Avula , Bangari Praveen
Published: November 2012

Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operation (ADCO) chose a green field to pioneer intelligent field technologies. This paper describes the development and implementation of Field Data Integration system (FDIS), Integrated Asset Operations Model (IAOM), Collaboration Work Environment (CWE) with focus on essential role of the real-time data to empower and enable different work processes and activities.

An integrated model of the reservoir performance, production and injection wells and surface facilities was built and connected with the real time data. The online system become the main tool to help optimize reservoirs, wells and plant performance with access to all users to a web based real time data that encouraged faster decision making and improvement of reservoir management and full system performance.

As a result, a significant implication took place in IT where field and Head quarter interact on daily basis in terms of people and technology which become critical to align the strategies. The plan of IT and asset both at HQ & field to achieve the optimum performance and technology objectives set focus on people competency, infrastructure and service quality.
Integrated Carbonate Formation Evaluation for Heterogeneous Carbonate Reservoirs - A Case Study from Minagish Oolite Reservoir
Authors: Al-Saqran F. , Padhy G. S. , Abdul-Latif A. , Al-Anezi K. , Thakuria A. , Vasquez R.
Published: November 2012

The Complex pore geometry of carbonate rocks pose challenges in the formation evaluation, production planning and reservoir simulation. Various diagenetic processes, including solution activities causes lateral and vertical heterogeneities in the formation. There exist two main pore networks in the carbonates which controls the petrophysical and productive characteristics, such as, the interparticle pore network (mainly matrix porosity) and secondary pore network (comprising of vuggy pores as well as fractures). The Minagish Oolite reservoir under this current study is no different and hence warrants a clear understanding of the heterogeneity in the reservoir in order to plan a better completion strategy.

In view of this, a study was carried out in one of the wells integrating conventional well log data, Images logs, NMR logs, Sonic logs, Pressure tests and Core to decide right interval to perforate out of the available zones of interests. Conventional logs are unable to address the geological complexity posed by the reservoir. The different textural elements coexisting in the reservoir (the different pore sizes and their distribution) is identified and captured from image logs and NMR. Integration of NMR and borehole image data allowed us to partition the porosity according to pore sizes and compute continuous permeability which was then calibrated to the mobility obtained from Wireline formation testers, core permeability. This permeability measurement was also supplemented with permeability computed from Stoneley wave energy. NMR results also indicated presence of minor bitumen/very heavy hydrocarbon in certain zones which is further validated with visual observation of cores under UV light. Later the permeability results were calibrated with Core permeability and helped to conclude on the presence of heavier hydrocarbons. The integrated analysis allowed us to identify the best flow units over the entire interval and there by optimizing the completion strategy.
Tectonic Discontinuities Analysis Using Seismic and Well Datasets in a Fractured Basement Reservoir
Authors: Ghiglione Giancarlo , Abbasi Iftikhar
Published: November 2012

This paper presents the workflow and the results of integration of seismic, well and production data on Habban Field to optimize well locations.

Habban Field is located in the Jurassic Marib-Al Jawf-Shabwah basin of Yemen (Block S2). Development targets in Habban Field are fractured Precambrian Basement, Kohlan and Shuqra formations (Middle Jurassic).

Main challenges faced in the Field are Basement heterogeneity, fracture distribution and their connectivity, lateral variation of Kohlan Formation and the overlying salt diapirs/walls hampering the seismic imaging. The difference between a good and a dry well is whether it is encountering main fracture corridors or not. Fracture corridors (along the faults) have limited lateral extent and due to overlying salt diapirs well trajectory optimization is very challenging. Reflection pattern in the Basement is quite chaotic. Therefore, it was important to come up with a workflow to image faults within the Basement so that highly deviated to horizontal wells can be drilled to enhance production and optimize recovery.

In order to address these challenges, wide azimuth 3D seismic was acquired and processed in different azimuths. The study has been conducted using 3D seismic dataset and derived seismic attributes combined with information from thirty one wells including image and production log interpretation. The workflow highlighted the value of G&G integration to better outline uncertainty and to mitigate risks during well locations and trajectory planning. In this contest structural attributes (i.e. AntTracking) have been crucial in order to define and identify the faults zones for optimizing horizontal wells targeting multiple fracture zones.

On the other hand integration of G&G and production data highlights the limitation in defining a one-to-one correlation between seismic, well and production information mainly due to reservoir complexity and scale resolution.
Nanoemulsion-Enhanced Treatment of Oil-Contaminated Oil-Based Drill Solids
Authors: Saphanuchart Wasan , Loke Yoong Shang , See Chun Hwa
Published: November 2012

The oil-based drill solids are regarded as controlled or hazardous waste since it is contaminated with oil and other organic/inorganic contaminants. As such, the drill solids can be disposed with 3 different ways: (1) decontamination treatment before discharged into the sea; (2) re-injecting the drill solids into the well or (3) hazardous waste controlled landfill. The disposal of the drill solids in the landfills is usually the last environmental option. The lowest environmental impact way for the solid disposal, especially for offshore operation, is still a decontamination treatment before discharged. However, the conventional decontamination technology still exhibits limited efficiency to extract oil from the drill solids; yielding the oil content in the treated solids of much greater than 1% oil content in the dried solids, which does not meet a strict environmental regulation in many highly ecological-sensitive countries (e.g. UK and North Sea countries, etc.).

This paper demonstrates a new promising technology to overcome this efficiency limitation, called nanoemulsion. Nanoemulsion is a water-in-oil emulsion, having the Winsor type III or IV stages but with high surfactants-to-interface ratio. When analyze using dynamic light scattering, it shows the natural distribution of <100nm particle size. Nanoemulsion is able to provide ultralow interfacial tension (IFT) of <0.01mN/m. According to Laplace Pressure equation, when IFT is extremely low, less energy is required to remove the oil that trapped inside the pores. Recently Nanoemulsion has been demonstrated able to remove sticky oil-base mud inside the wellbore and able to suspend the mud after treatment. When using it to remove the oil from the drill solids, it is able to reduce the contact angle and capillary force on the solid particle surface, subsequently, allowed water to penetrate and wet the particle surface and accessible pores. This mechanism indeed converts the surfaces become water-wet (hydrophilic). Once the particles surfaces are water-wet, oil will instantly desorb from it and easily segregate through centrifuge force. Different proposed process will be shared and discussed in this work. It was found that the oil content in the drill solids after treatment with nanoemulsion cleaning process was able to reach <1%.
Health, Safety and Environmental Considerations for a Photovoltaic-based Power Generation System for Oil Rigs in Remote Locations
Authors: Al Ali Asiyah , Siddique Abdul Hasib , Simmons Rodney J.
Published: November 2012

The UAE is one of the leading countries in production of oil, and one one of its prime concerns is to equip the oil rig with modern technology. Power generation in the oil rigs of UAE has been quite expensive and is not environmentally-friendly. To date, most of the oil rigs use diesel generators as a way to power the rig, which is expensive and also produces a lot of green house gas (GHG). Considering the geographical position of the UAE, it has an unbound potential for renewable energies like solar. It is important for the photovoltaic (PV) industry to take proactive approach in reducing accidental and environmental damage and sustaining PV's inherent advantage over the existing other system. This paper focuses on health, safety and environmental issues during manufacturing installation, operation, and decommissioning or disposal of PV systems related to a hybrid PV and diesel plant which is designed to provide power for an oil rig in United Arab Emirates. In this paper, we also examine the potentiality of PV-based power stations for the oil rigs of UAE.
An Integrated Approach to Cement Evaluation
Authors: Enwemadu Andrew , Bontems Francois , Akinyamoju Benedict , Epete Sam , Ciaroni Marco , Okoroafor Rita Esuru , Singh Kamaljeet , Nnebocha Ezinne
Published: November 2012

Drilling in progressively deeper water environments requires that even more attention be given to well integrity because of the serious implications to health, safety and environment. Conventional cement evaluation tools have been available for many years and have been useful in most scenarios, but in more complex and challenging deepwater operations, the need exists for advanced cement evaluation techniques to increase confidence in ascertaining wellbore integrity. There are limitations on cement evaluation for light cements and thick casings. Furthermore, there is usually limited information about the "Third Interface" (i.e. between the cement/formation or cement/next casing), which can provide valuable information about wellbore integrity.

An integrated approach to cement evaluation has been adopted. This approach is based on a cement evaluation service that incorporates 360° circumferential information about cement placement, annulus imaging, and petrophysical evaluation of the formation to ascertain zonal isolation and cement quality behind casing. The azimuthal information is used to understand whether the cement placement was affected by the well deviation and if there are changes in cement quality from one part of the borehole to another. Annulus imaging is used to evaluate the annulus material. Petrophysical data is used to determine if the formation rock and fluid properties contributed to the quality of the cement behind casing. The principles of ultrasonic measurements and unique flexural measurements, and how they aid in cement evaluation, are also considered.
Risk Management Register in Projects & Operations
Authors: Bensahraoui M. , Al Nahdi Jamaal Abdalla , King Dennis E. , Macwan Nancy
Published: November 2012

Description

The company Risk Management Register for Projects & Operations is a risk register reference & is the basis for safe operations. It covers contractual & service activities & applies to all contractors providing similar services. It captures in a structured manner all the potential operational hazards connected to the interface between the company & the activities conducted by the contractors.

Application

The risks are identified & categorized according to severity of the potential hazard to People, Assets, Environment & Reputation (P. E. A. R). Explicit short & long-term actions & safeguards are recommended to eliminate or prevent the occurrence of the hazard and/or to reduce the level of the risk to be As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP).

Priority is given to high risk services provided to company where the interfaces could present critical hazards. Involving the companies in the compilation of the register enhanced their awareness of the HSE concerns & emphasized their commitment to abide by the mutually agreed controls & measures.

This will positively impact operational integrity, leading to more efficient projects & operations. The Risk Register is applicable to Onshore as well as offshore activities. It is also completely transferable among service companies /contractors providing the same type & nature of projects & services.

The register is a live document that is used on a daily basis & is the reference point in pre-job meetings for the projects & services covered.

Results & Conclusions

The Risk Register for both projects & operations is one of the tools utilized in company Risk Management program where risks are jointly identified & assessed utilizing both Company & contractors’ expertise. The risk analysis covers the key activities & therefore applies for other contractors providing similar services & projects. Copies of the risk register are distributed to all relevant parties & appropriate sites & personnel for immediate implementation. The register is an integral part of Company Master Risk management register. The register captures in a structural manner all the potential operational hazards connected to the interface between Company & the activities conducted by the project contractors. A Risk Management Tool will not do the job for you. A tool is only a mechanism to help you: It has no intelligence. It will not manage risk for you. It is vital that everyone understands risk management & why it is important.
Subsea Pipeline Repair by Composite System
Authors: POPINEAU Dominique , WIET Paul , Boulet d’AURIA Stanislas
Published: November 2012

Subsea Pipelines Repair When they are located subsea, damaged pipelines are very challenging to repair. The extreme conditions, the risks related to pollution and the high daily rates of intervention vessels make the repair decision difficult. Recently, composite repair solutions, originally developed for onshore use, where adapted for subsea application and tested, so as to get alternative solutions to apply when classical repair methods are not suitable or too costly. Composite repair system for subsea use Composite repair solutions for restoring the structural integrity of damaged pipeline have been available for some time. A modified version was specifically designed for subsea pipeline repair, using a dedicated resin applicable under water. The repair system is designed to be installed by divers with a semi-automatic installation process: using pre-impregnated tape with a specific tool applying constant tension and winding path. This tool is now being adapted for ROV use, to allow performing deepwater repairs. Results, Observations, and Conclusions Several test campaigns, both in swimming pools and subsea were performed in Monaco, Abu Dhabi and in China for various oil operators, with a rigorous test protocol, supervised by a third party. A finite element model of the composite repair allows calculating the number of layers, pattern and extent over the defect, in relation to the stress level in the pipe. This FE model was also validated through numerous burst tests, confirming the reliability of the calculations. The subsequent pressure test results indicated that the pipeline integrity was fully restored for damages such as metal loss and through thickness defects. A solution for restoring the structural integrity of a damaged pipeline This composite repair system is designed to restore fully the structural integrity and pressure resistance of the pipeline for subsea application. It represents a cost efficient alternative to classical repair methods involving clamps, mechanical connectors or others.
A Breakthrough Oxy-Fuel Technology for Cost-Effective CO2 Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Kapteijn Pieter , Kutscha Eric , Perron Joshua
Published: November 2012

Over the next 20 years an estimated 50% of mature water-flooded fields will have to transition to EOR. CO2 has been found to be an almost ideal EOR medium for a broad range of reservoir types and conditions, yielding increases in recovery of up to 15% of STOIIP.

Most of the experience with commercial CO2 EOR has been gained on US onshore fields, where sources of natural CO2 gas and an extensive CO2 transport infrastructure are available. Onshore CO2 flooding is economical at CO2 costs of around 35-40 $/t and an oil price over $ 75/bbl. Where natural CO2 sources are not readily available, CO2 may be sourced from petrochemical and pre- or post-combustion capture plants. These capture methods yield CO2 prices typically in the order of 80-120 $/t which would render CO2 flooding un-economical.

TriGen™ is an innovative pressurized oxy-fuel concept that has the potential to reduce CO2 cost by as much as 50% when compared to ‘state-of-the-art’ pre- or post-combustion capture technologies combined with power generation. The Clean Energy Systems (CES) oxy-fuel combustor uses rocket technology, efficiently burning low quality gas or liquid fuels at pressures in excess of 100 bar and temperatures of 2000 deg C. The combustion gasses are quenched and expanded using steam and gas turbines driving electric generators. Exhaust gases are condensed to yield "reservoir ready" CO2 and pure water.

This paper describes the TriGen concept and its application to EOR or Enhanced Gas Recovery (EGR) schemes. The collaborative program to develop and market TriGen technology through a partnership of Maersk Oil, CES and Siemens is also discussed.

It is concluded that the TriGen concept represents a breakthrough in EOR economics, particularly when applied in value chains that integrate the development of low quality gas reservoirs with EOR projects.
Increased Transformer Availability and Reliability
Authors: Lorin Pierre , Khanna Pravin
Published: November 2012

Transformers are important components of the High Voltage electrical grid and electrical power installation in industrial plants such as the petroleum industry.

In case of an unexpected failure the possibility to reduce the outage time is usually of prime importance. It allows the plant manager to minimize financial impact due to loss of production.

In this paper we will describe transformer condition assessment methodologies as well as on-site repair solutions as means to increase both the reliability and availability of transformers.

Over the last decade there has been an increasing interest in transformer life evaluation and monitoring. The main reason is that a large number of the transformers world population is approaching its expected end-of-life and the need increases for better methods to see whether the transformers are still fit for use or need to be retrofitted or replaced.

The diagnosis of the transformer condition is used to recommend maintenance actions and identify defects even before untanking the transformer. It allows therefore to reduce unexpected failures and anticipate to reduce repair time especially when transformers are repaired at site.

Repairing at site usually allows bringing transformers back in service within a shorter time by avoiding transportation from the site to the factory and return. Also it reduces costs and risks associated with heavy transport.

To date more than 400 transformers including utility, industrial, HVDC transformers and reactors have been successfully repaired on site. In many cases transformers were upgraded to provide an increased rating.

This paper shows how transformer condition assessment and on site repair can help the petroleum industry to:

Reduce unexpected failures and outages Optimize maintenance budget and better plan maintenance activities Reduce loss of production by bringing back failed transformer in service within a shorter time
Improving Transformer Safety with Natural Ester Fluids
Authors: Asano Roberto , Frimpong George K. , Page Stephane A.
Published: November 2012

For over one hundred years, petroleum based mineral oil has been used in liquid filled transformers. Today, over a million tons of transformer oils are annually purchased worldwide. The popularity of mineral transformer oil has mainly been built on its availability and low cost. It has also been proven to be an excellent dielectric and cooling medium.

Escalation in power demands pushes often aging networks to their limits. In such situations, mineral oil has shown costly limitations. Mineral oil filled transformer explosions and fires causing heavy collateral damage have raised major safety concerns. These have given rise to a search for alternative dielectric insulating fluids. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were used in transformers as insulating fluids to solve the problem of flammability for installations in and near buildings from the early 1930's until the late 1970's when concern over their longevity and stability in the environment and their potential toxicity caused them to be banned from use in transformers. As their negative aspects began to be fully appreciated, other fluids such as silicone oil, high temperature hydrocarbons and tetrachloroethylene came to be used in transformers located in many of the locations where PCBs were formerly used. In more recent years, there has been an increased interest in using natural ester fluids in transformers due to their combined better fire safety and environmental performance.

Natural ester fluids may be used in new transformers or to retrofill existing transformers. In the latter case, upgrading with a new fluid is also an opportunity to improve transformers performance and reliability overall. Both applications require however knowledge and understanding of the unique characteristics of such liquids and their implications on transformer design, operation and performance.

The present paper gives a comprehensive review of natural ester based dielectric insulating fluids main properties and associated values with a special emphasis on its unique fire resistance characteristics.
Remote Condition Monitoring and Advanced Diagnostics
Authors: Anand Vijay
Published: November 2012

Like any other machines, motors and generators are subject to wear and aging. The materials and components they are made from degrade over time, and if no action is taken this degradation will eventually lead to failure. In critical applications, as in the petroleum industry, a failure can have dramatic and expensive consequences. Fortunately most types of failure can be prevented by maintenance. To plan maintenance effectively, the plant operator must have accurate information about the status of the equipment. In particular, the operator has to know which components need repairing or replacing, and when.

Advances in technology and communications mean that it is now possible for decision makers to access real-time information on the condition of their motors and generators.
Artificial Islands for a Middle Eastern Oil Field Project
Authors: Talbot Robert , Al Ahbabi Saeed Nasser , Bouwmeester Bert
Published: November 2012

The construction of four artificial islands lays the foundation for the redevelopment of a Middle Eastern oil field and will facilitate increased production up to 750kbd. This paper will describe the benefits of the Artificial Islands, the scope of island engineering design construction work, progress to date and the challenges associated with constructing the islands in an offshore operating field environment.

Working inside the field, which is producing nearly 40% of the country's oil, requires close coordination with field operations personnel to ensure that any risk to the production facilities is effectively managed and thus minimized. Measures taken include the identification and marking of marine access channels, environmental operating limits and rigorous inspection of marine assets.

The construction of drilling and production facilities on artificial islands in shallow waters provides an economically and environmentally beneficial option in the field and has widespread potential application for other shallow water offshore developments. Similar new field developments based on artificial islands are now being undertaken in this country and elsewhere in the world, with each facility being designed for local environmental and field specific criteria.
Simultaneous Drilling & Productions Operations SIMOPS
Authors: Salman Mohamed Wajeeh , Macwan N.
Published: November 2012

To maintain oil production at sustainable rates through minimizing the production loss factors, there was a need to investigate the feasibility of conducting SIMOPS on old wood, unprepared & un-equipped, high producing oil Well Head Towers (WHT). For this purpose, Management has formed a multi-disciplined team to investigate the possibility of allowing oil production & water injection operations while carrying out drilling/workover activity in a similar manner to that adopted for ZADCO oil WHTs. While SIMOPS has never been implemented on ADMA-OPCO WHTs for oil production, it was noted that water injection SIMOPS was already under implementation.

The methodology adopted by the taskforce is as follows:

re-visiting the risk assessment which constituted the basis for the current SIMOPS by ZADCO through ADMA-OPCO. Categorising & identifying the WHTs where SIMOPS can be implemented based on considerable incremental oil production level. Site verification of SIMOPS by ZADCO. Reviewing & amending the current SIMOPS procedures with the purpose of producing special procedure for ADMA-OPCO oil WHTs.

Site verification visits to rigs carrying out SIMOPS were made where open discussions with rig personnel were held and equipment / systems were checked and tested. It was noted during the function test of the deluge system that the water supply by the injection facilities/ system on the WHTs is satisfactory where as the back up water supply from the rig was ineffective.

The risk assessment has shown that most hazards are assessed at ALARP or acceptable level except for the following: Rig Collapse :Mitigation of the hazard is through the major improvements in NDC Systems (Management, Maintenance).Dropped Objects :Mitigation through re-enforced Impact Protection on top of production facilities.High Pressure Testing :Shut down production and depressurisation of service pipe works will constitute appropriate protection.

The current SIMOPS procedures maintained in ADMA-OPCO's were reviewed and amended to reflect the required modification to allow for SIMOPS on ADMA-OPCO Towers. The SIMOPS procedure will require formal

approval of Site Operating Authorities (Umm Al Shaif (US), Zakum (ZK)), both Asset Managers & the Drilling Manager.
Perspectives for Novel Mixed Diruthenium-Organic Drugs as Metallopharmaceuticals in Cancer Therapy
Authors: de Oliveira Silva Denise
Published: November 2012

Ruthenium compounds have been actively studied as metallodrugs for cancer therapy. Representatives of ruthenium-based antitumor drugs are the classes of ruthenium(III)-chlorido-(N-ligand) complexes, including the drugs namely NAMI-A and KP1019 in clinical trials, and ruthenium(II)-arene organometallics, with some compounds currently undergoing advanced preclinical testing. An alternative approach for tumor-inhibiting metallodrugs is the coordination of metal ions to organic pharmaceuticals. The combination of antitumor-active ruthenium ion with biologically-active pro-ligands in single compounds can result in the enhancement of activity, for example through synergistic effects. In the present article, some developments in the ruthenium-based antitumor drugs field are briefly highlighted and recent studies on mixed diruthenium-organic drugs as metallopharmaceuticals in cancer therapy are described. Novel organic pharmaceuticals-containing diruthenium(II,III) complexes have shown promising antitumor activity for C6 rat glioma - a model for glioblastoma multiforme (GBA).
The Management of Metastatic Bone Disease with the Combination of Bisphosphonates and Radiotherapy: From Theory to Clinical Practice
Authors: Vassiliou V. , Kardamakis D.
Published: November 2012

Bone metastases are common in the event of malignancy and are inevitably associated with serious complications that may deteriorate the quality of life (QOL) of patients and threaten life. Both radiotherapy (RT) and bisphosphonates (BPs) have an established role in the management of metastatic bone disease. Many clinical trials have demonstrated their effectiveness when used as sole treatment modalities, but only a few have evaluated their therapeutic value when applied concomitantly. We herein discuss the pathophysiology of bone metastases and the potential interactions between RT and BPs. Moreover, the results of both animal models and clinical studies are presented in detail. Apart from aspects of normal tissue tolerance, other interactions include spatial cooperation and additive or super-additive effects. The latter brings about a synergistic activity that results in an enhanced reossification, improved bone stability and microarchitecture, and increased mechanical strength, as documented through animal model studies. The results of published clinical studies investigating the effectiveness of concomitant application of RT and BPs are promising, reporting a significant clinical and radiologic response. More specifically, a significant reduction of pain scores and a worth noticing improvement in QOL and performance status (PS) were noted, accompanied by a considerable increase in bone density. Pain relief was accompanied by a marked reduction in analgesic opioid need. The enhanced reossification may be responsible for the improved therapeutic response, since it was shown that the correlation between pain and bone density is negative and strong. Although promising and encouraging, the results of such studies should be corroborated by larger, randomized trials.
Antimitotic Chalcones and Related Compounds as Inhibitors of Tubulin Assembly
Authors: Ducki Sylvie
Published: November 2012

The development of chalcones as antimitotic agents has led to the design of other analogues able to interact with tubulin and inhibit its assembly into microtubules. This activity has also been associated with their anti-vascular activity. This review focuses on the development of chalcones and related analogues as antimitotic agents.
Mechanisms of Trastuzumab Resistance in Breast Cancer
Authors: Tolaney Sara M. , Krop Ian E.
Published: November 2012

Amplification of the HER2/neu gene occurs in approximately 20-25% of invasive breast cancers and is associated with poor patient outcome. The development of trastuzumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to the extracellular domain of HER2, has led to a significant improvement in outcomes of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. However, many patients with HER2- positive metastatic breast cancer do not respond to trastuzumab, or eventually become resistant to it. In addition, approximately 15% of patients treated with trastuzumab-based therapy in the adjuvant setting relapse. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of antitumor activity of trastuzumab, potential mechanisms contributing to its resistance, and novel therapeutic agents that may provide a means to overcome trastuzumab resistance.
Tripentones: A Promising Series of Potent Anti-Cancer Agents
Authors: Rochais Christophe , Dallemagne Patrick , Rault Sylvain
Published: November 2012

The 8H-thieno[2,3-b]pyrrolizinones, some of which exert very potent cytotoxic activity against tumor cell lines in vitro, are a promising novel series of anti-cancer agents. These compounds belong to the tripentone family and are based on 9H-pyrrolo[1,2-a]indol- 9-one derivatives and their heterocyclic isosteres. This paper inventories the different synthetic strategies for tripentones and reviews their biological effects and therapeutic potential.
Novel Implications for Lysophospholipids, Lysophosphatidic Acid and Sphingosine 1-Phosphate, as Drug Targets in Cancer
Authors: Peyruchaud Olivier
Published: November 2012

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) are naturally arising bioactive lipids. The roles of LPA and S1P in angiogenesis, tumor growth and metastasis have recently emerged. Blood platelets are an important source of LPA and S1P in the organism. However, other types of cells including cancer cells expressing autotaxin and sphingosine kinases have the capacity to produce LPA and S1P, respectively. During the past decade, studies revealed that LPA and S1P interact with a large series of G-protein-coupled receptors, at least seven for LPA (LPA1-5, GPR-87, P2Y5) and five for S1P (S1P1-5). This may account for the wide variety of cell types reacting to LPA and S1P stimulation and for the wide range of cellular functions controlled by these lysophospholipids such as proliferation, survival and motility. Genetic and pharmacological approaches were developed to block the activities of LPA or S1P in the context of cancer progression. This article presents recent findings based on extensive cell culture experiments and preliminary in vivo studies which demonstrate that targeting the lysophospholipid tracks would be extremely beneficial for patients suffering from cancer.
Anticancer Actions of Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Current State and Future Perspectives
Authors: Wendel Martina , Heller Axel R.
Published: November 2012

Omega-3 fatty acids (ω3-FA) were shown to attenuate growth and induce apoptosis in a variety of human cancer cell lines derived from colonic, pancreatic, prostate, and breast cancer. In addition, recent findings indicate that ω3-FA act synergistically with chemotherapeutic agents and may also be used to enhance tumour radiosensitivity. The mechanisms underlying the anti-tumour effects of ω3-FA are complex. Incorporation of ω3-FA in biological membranes alters the profile of lipid mediators generated during inflammatory reactions. Furthermore, ω3-FA act as ligands of nuclear peroxisome proliferator- activated receptors that attenuate transcription of NF-κB-dependent genes. Thereby, the cyclooxygenase-2/prostaglandin E2- dependent production of pro-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor and levels of anti-apoptotic bcl-2 and bcl-XL are decreased. Eicosanoid-independent pro-apoptotic pathways include enhanced lipid peroxidation, modulation of mitochondrial calcium homeostasis and enhanced production of reactive oxygen species as well as activation of p53. This review article will give a comprehensive overview over the pleiotropic actions of ω3-FA and will discuss the potential of ω3-FA and derivatives like conjugated eicosapentaenoic acid as important nutritional adjuvant therapeutics in the management of various human cancer diseases and the impact of nutritional ω-3 FA on cancer prevention.