bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Kuwait Employs Underbalanced Drilling Technology To Improve Drilling Performance While Simultaneously Evaluating the Reservoir
Authors: Larroque F. , Al-Saleh A. M. , Ismael H. , Qutob H. , Chopty J. R. , Vieira P. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The Shuaiba formation in the Raudhatain field is a highly fractured limestone reservoir. Conventional drilling technology in this formation usually results in a complete loss of drilling fluids to the formation. These losses cause severe formation damage which results in masking the evaluation of the potential for hydrocarbon production.
Underbalanced Drilling Technology was proposed as an alternative drilling method. The main objective of the UBD drilling application was to evaluate the potential of hydrocarbon in the Shuaiba formation while simultaneously eliminating fluid loss to the formation and improving drilling performance.
This well was the first well drilled underbalanced by KOC, a training program was prepared in order to familiarize the rig personal involved with the operation of the UBD equipment and procedures. The openhole section was drilled out of a 10 ¾" casing with an 8 ½" bit. A conventional mud pulse MWD/PWD/LWD tool with real-time annular pressure, temperature and gamma ray sensors were incorporated in the BHA. The use of MWD/PWD/LWD provided a means of monitoring the downhole underbalanced conditions and formation properties while drilling. The Shuaiba formation was successfully drilled underbalanced without any fluid loss during the drilling phase. The openhole section was drilled to a total depth (TD) of 8942 ft MD, with an openhole length of 242 ft.
Integrated efforts of KOC and service companies of various disciplines during planning and operation stages of the well led to the success of the project. No QHSE incidents were reported.
This paper highlights the key factors in the underbalanced drilling design phase, the operational challenges faced, and the results of the first well drilled in Kuwait using underbalanced drilling technology.
Prevention of Back Injuries: Using an Ergonomic Evaluation Team To Customize Training and Identify Improvement
Authors: Disatell Joel , Knode Tom 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Back and hand injuries are among the most common types of injuries that occur while engaging in pressure pumping at the wellsite. This is not surprising given the heavy iron that must be lifted off trucks, carried into position, and then connected using hammers. The challenge is to implement engineering and human factor controls to minimize risk to employees.
This question was posed to an outside group of ergonomics experts. Consultants were used because their opinions were less likely to be biased by potential preconceptions of those working around the hazards for years. These consultants were requested to evaluate the ergonomics of rigging up, running a job, then rigging down pumping equipment. They visited wellsites and witnessed a variety of locations and job types.
Based on the prioritized conclusions of the ergonomists, a customized back-safety training program has been piloted to address body mechanics. The study has also led to the identification and sharing of best practices for equipment design. It also resulted in the creation of a prejob preparation video that highlights stretching exercises that should help reduce the potential for injury. Preliminary results of the pilot program are encouraging.
Information Architecture Strategy for the Digital Oil Field
Authors: Burda Barbara , Crompton Jim , Sardoff Hugh , Falconer John 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Digital Oilfield (i-field) technology is based on both new and existing IT platforms. Development of new tools that require a new approach to architecture has presented numerous pilot project opportunities. These pilot projects have uncovered at least one common theme revolving around the quality and completeness of local information management solutions and the difficulty of integrating new solutions into legacy applications and work processes.
Chevron's Global Upstream (Chevron) has initiated an IT program, named Level 0, to provide the technology platform for integration to drive performance improvements prescribed by i-field, base business and reservoir management initiatives. In many cases, current state information stores, applications solutions and field infrastructure are aligned with traditional functional requirements but do not easily integrate to provide a broad perspective for full asset management. The Level 0 effort is taking an approach to provide an enterprise solution through distributed efforts coordinated through corporate IT support functions.
Oil and gas production environments are diverse. Requirements in a heavy oil environment are vastly different from i-field deliverables in an offshore setting; however, they may interact with core IT systems in a similar manner. To maximize re-use of common functions and allow for priority functionality development, Level 0 teams are building a consistent information architecture, web service/interoperability architecture and real-time data architecture. Details of these architectures are being built independently by the co-located project teams but are using common technology and philosophical approaches.
Chevron Upstream Europe (CUE) and San Joaquin Valley Strategic Business Unit (SJVSBU) are the first two business units to engage in this program. CUE has proven the technology solutions and information architecture are sound. SJVSBU is widening the scope to provide additional functionality. The next wave of Level 0 projects are starting up in our Gulf of Mexico and Mid Continent business units. Agile Scrum methodology, a methodology based on short development intervals called sprints, is being utilized by both current projects. This methodology allows scoping and delivering architectural extensions or application functionality every 30 days. Processes to insure evergreen alignment of extensions are being formalized.
Viscosity Prediction of Crude Oils with Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Hajizadeh Yasin 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Modern reservoir engineering practices require accurate information on thermodynamic and transport fluid properties together with reservoir rock properties to perform material balance calculations. These calculations lead to the estimation if initial hydrocarbons, the future reservoir performance, optimum production schemes and ultimate hydrocarbon recovery. These fluid properties which are usually determined by laboratory experiments or using empirically derived correlations provide the information required to properly understand the phase behavior, evaluate various production scenarios, optimize reservoir production and IOR schemes, and to maximize ultimate recovery and optimize production economics. One of these properties is the petroleum reservoir fluid viscosity. Crude oil viscosity is an important physical property that controls and influences the flow of oil through porous media and pipes.
This paper introduces a new implementation of the genetic algorithms technology in petroleum engineering. Intelligent techniques such as genetic algorithms for data analysis and interpretation are an increasingly powerful and reliable tool for making breakthroughs in the science and engineering. The introduced model in this paper can predict the reservoir fluid viscosity data with genetic algorithms technique.
Prediction results of the proposed model have been tested against the measured reservoir fluid viscosity data. Results indicate that the proposed prediction model can successfully predict and model reservoir fluid viscosity.
Enhanced Thermal Desorption Process Can Extend Life of Base Oil and Reduce Energy Costs
Authors: Fang Cindy C. , Oronite Chevron , Seaton Simon , Shumway William 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In many cases, the primary waste management challenge facing operators is drilled cuttings generated using oil- or synthetic-based fluids (OBF, SBF). Low temperature thermal desorption units (TDUs) are commonly used treatment systems for removing oil from cuttings. The oil recovered from the thermal desorption process is often reused to make oil-based fluids. However, base oils change during the thermal desorption process, and these changes can have a detrimental impact on the performance of the base oil. In some cases the base oil can break down.
Typically the base oil used to formulate an OBF or SBF is selected for economical, drilling and logistical reasons and rarely, if ever, the thermal properties of the base oil. The thermal treatment company is left to determine how best to recover the oil so that the thermal degradation is minimal and the oil is suitable for reuse. To lower energy consumption and preserve the performance of the base oil, it is important to identify a base oil that has either a lower temperature for desorption or higher resistance to thermal degradation during the thermal desorption process. Ideally, a base oil would be chosen that incorporated both properties. The results of this study show that by correctly evaluating and selecting the base oil, the operator can benefit from using a fluid that may be much more suitable for reuse and will require much less energy to thermally treat.
This paper describes how to achieve both of these goals using Thermal Gravimetric Analysis, Gas Chromatography / Mass Spec and a low-temperature retort. Determining the optimal desorption temperature is also an important factor. The oils recovered using these methods contain no oxygenated products and exhibit little thermal degradation. Residual oil from on cuttings is less than 1% (w/w). A practical methodology for base oil selection also is included in this discussion.
Maintaining Observer Skills Through an Effective Coaching Structure
Authors: Whitney Paula , Schafer Harold Christian 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Behavior observation and feedback processes change behavior in two ways: by giving feedback to workers immediately after an observation and through the development of improvement plans that utilize the data captured during the observation. If the quality of the feedback given to workers is poor or the quality of the data captured deficient, the effectiveness of the behavior-based safety (BBS) process will be compromised.
Observer coaching can be used to build and maintain observation skills. Coaching is applied in the same way as observations, by providing feedback immediately after the observation. It reinforces behaviors performed correctly and highlights potential consequences of incorrect behaviors. Coaching feedback is most effective when it happens soon after the observation occurs and when it is conducted in a positive manner. Immediate, certain, and positive coaching feedback acts as a reinforcement that can both build observer skills and motivate observers to perform more observations.
The steering team, a group of employees who own the BBS process, should develop the coaching process and structure. Results from the implementation of a coaching process in a large organization have demonstrated improvements in observer participation and an increase in the number of observations. Observation quality has also improved as a result of the maintenance of observer skills and controls put in place to help ensure good quality observations.
Coached observers develop feedback communication skills needed to change behavior and writing skills needed to document observations accurately. Good written documentation, or observer commentary, is needed to help ensure that high quality observation data is available for action planning. Use of observer coaching is an effective way to help ensure the high quality needed to maintain a strong and healthy BBS process.
The Development and Trial Use of Oil Exploration Drill-Cutting Waste as an Aggregate Replacement in Cold-Mix Asphalt
Authors: Allen Bob , Day Dennis , Armstrong Stephen , Page Paul , Murdoch Keith , Beardsley Ron 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The safe disposal and minimisation of offshore drilling waste has been a major environmental concern for the petroleum industry over many years. This paper presents the collaborative work between; oil drill cuttings generator, road authority and asphalt technologists to produce a cold mix asphalt solution to the problem of disposal.
The drill cuttings are high in moisture content and contain some hydrocarbon residues, the preliminary design identified that the addition of drill cutting waste into asphalt reduced the stiffness and inherent stability of the mixtures examined.
These two problems were overcome by redesigning the binder and by replacing up to 20% of the virgin aggregate with incinerator bottom ash. Use of the ash increased the aggregate pore structure within the mixture and accommodated the relatively high moisture contents whilst the binder modification allowed for the inherent low viscosity oils.
The project concluded with a plant/quarry trial of the Laboratory developed mixture to assess suitability for full scale production and any eventual application. This process promises to be an effective method of reducing offshore drilling waste in a cost effective and environmentally sound way.
Implementation of a Management System Execution Framework To Establish a Culture of Accountability and Improved Safety Performance
Authors: Cadigan Michael F. , Stough Joe 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
A management system is a company's corporate-wide standardized framework of processes and practices used to ensure that an organization can fulfill all tasks required to achieve its objectives. For example, an operational excellence management system provides standardized guidelines and practices to enable continuous improvement of the organization's operational risk mitigation competence. The simplest frameworks include the ability to execute – "Plan, Do, Check, Act." A more complete management system would include accountability and a schedule for activities to be completed, as well as auditing tools to implement corrective actions in addition to scheduled activities, creating an upward spiral of continuous improvement facilitating operational risk management across the enterprise.
As a startup drilling contractor, implementing a management system and defining a corporate culture can be a daunting task. Part of the culture that must be nurtured is an environment of accountability. One such contractor, hereafter known as the "Company" employed a preferred practice enterprise risk management tool already utilized by many major operators. The idea is simple; develop a culture of accountability by using proven business processes already employed by many major operators. Starting with a small scope of functionality using incident reporting and action item tracking, this Company has formed the backbone of a true accountability system. With initial success in tracking closure of action items, the Company is now posed to expand the tool with dedicated modules to govern other processes within the management system including:
Management of Change Training Requests Audit/Assessment Module High Value Learning Events Behavior Based Safety Observations Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Metrics
Many companies use different software technology toolsets to strengthen their execution of various management system processes with the goal to reduce costs incurred from loss events (injuries, spills, asset damage, operation shut-downs, etc.) on a global scale. A successful management system framework should enable transparency and accountability across all facets of the organization using centralized tools.
Many of these management systems have similarities and a common intent. However, often the case is management systems exist in the form of three-ring binders that sit on the shelf and therefore scarcely reflect the realities of how business is run in the field.
Worldwide Coalbed Methane Overview
Authors: Chakhmakhchev Alex 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Recent coal bed methane (CBM) success in North America has been due to a number of coincidental factors such as the existence of extended coal basins, strong gas prices, a dense distribution network, and little competition with declining conventional gas production. Strong demand for both oil and gas is pushing the rest of the world (especially Australia, China and India) to speed up CBM developments. However favorable geological factors such as occurrence of thick gas-rich coal seams with good porosity/permeability characteristics do not necessarily coexist with an ideal business environment in many of these countries. Outside of the North America, Australia has the most commercially advanced CBM industry. The country contains about 30 coal-bearing basins, mostly Permian and Mesozoic in age. Based on IHS data, proven reserves in Australia have been estimated at nearly 9 tcf. In China, an estimate size of CBM resources is very impressive at about 1,200 tcf. The question is: What portion of these resources is commercially recoverable? Today most of the CBM projects in China are in exploration or initial development phases. Key International CBM players in China are Chevron, Greka, BP, Far East Energy, ConocoPhillips and Canadian companies - Terra, Ivana, Verona. India is also making an effort to attract both local and international companies to explore CBM potential in the country. Three bid rounds held in 2001, 2003 and 2006 were successful. Under the latest 2006 bid round, CBM exploration blocks were awarded to Australian, U.S. and European companies. Indonesia is currently preparing new legislation regarding the exploitation of CBM. The new legislation is expected to be completed in 2007. The government had been expected to open to tender the first acreage specifically designed for CBM exploration and production in order to exploit Indonesia's as yet untapped resources of CBM, estimated at 453 tcf. Both Vietnam and Mongolia signed CBM contracts with Canadian companies. Definitely these countries have geologic potential for CBM, however, lack of infrastructure and uncertain gas price raise many questions. From a commercial standpoint, West Europe is favorable for CBM developments; however, environmental issues and lack of gas-saturated coal seams extended over large areas may slow down full-scale production from coal beds. Much less is known about CBM potential in Eastern Europe including Poland, Romania, Ukraine, and Bulgaria. In several Latin American countries CBM exploration efforts are in their initial phases. Some countries are offering incentives to CBM investors, which make CBM exploration and production a feasible alternative to conventional gas. On the other side, there are fiscal regimes designed for conventional hydrocarbons that do not provide investors reasonable returns under traditionally low gas prices in those countries.
Introducing Predictive Analytics: Opportunities
Authors: Stone Paul 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Energy companies' data bases hold the potential for tremendous advantage. Moreover, they are growing exponentially, fed by a mounting array of sources including ERP systems, sensory networks, machine instrumentation, credit card transactions, loyalty programs, and increasing multi-media and other unstructured data. Yet analyzing and extracting value from large datasets has always been a problem due to the sheer volume of data and consequent "signal to noise" problems.
To unlock some of this value, BP have launched a "predictive analytics" initiative, investigating pattern recognition techniques that find correlations and relationships in large datasets. This form of analysis is not new, but pilots in previous years have not resulted in significant implementation. However, recent advances in computing power coupled with more sophisticated applications, easy-to-use interfaces and easier access to data, have made predictive analytics a more valuable, practical tool for wide scale corporate adoption. And now, with more data available from sensor enabled applications, predictive analytics presents an opportunity to make all aspects of our field operations more efficient and effective.
A particular distinction of these techniques is that the models used are data-driven, and do not rely on a fundamental understanding of the first principles involved. This means that predictive analytics can be particularly useful where the underlying scientific principles are complex and difficult to model precisely. Data driven models can be created with reduced effort and often without the need for in-depth skills used to create models from first principles.
To take advantage of these techniques, the Digital & Communications Chief Technology Office (CTO) has been leading a program to introduce predictive analytics across all business segments and operations in BP. In so doing, we have been working closely with our segment specific technology teams, FIELD OF THE FUTURE, Refining Technology and our Exploration and Production Digital & Communications Technology teams. Having established connections with over 50 "predictive analytics" vendors, CTO is working with business units and functions and have completed a number of proof of concept (POC) trials utilizing a variety of innovative vendor solutions
This paper describes a number of these POCs and presents the value proposition for data driven predictive analytics.
Ultradeep Extended-Reach Stimulations
Authors: Tongs Taylor , Hinrichs Angela , Spickett Rae , Robertson Les 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Recent advances in drilling technology have resulted in longer horizontal wells being drilled to more efficiently exploit reservoirs. However, these long open hole horizontals are often problematic when using coiled tubing as the well intervention conveyance system during stimulation.
Coiled tubing, a commonly used intervention tool for open hole horizontals, is considerably less stiff than jointed drill pipe and cannot reach TD on many wells due to friction. Assistance from friction reducers, well tractors or other devices have helped, but can be potentially damaging, expensive and/or high risk.
This poster details the use of a simple agitation tool placed in the coiled tubing bottom hole assembly during the stimulation. This results in decreased friction which in turn increases reach for coiled tubing thereby allowing full horizontal open hole stimulation treatment.
The case study that is presented on the performance of the agitation tool used in coiled tubing stimulations in long horizontal open hole sections of a hot, sour reservoir with a total measured depth up to 7 kilometers.
Suncor Energy has utilized this process in the development of its Panther River reservoirs in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin with excellent results. Benefits discussed include reduced completion cost and reduced environmental impact.