bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Applications of Xanthan Gum in Fluid-Loss Control and Related Formation Damage
Authors: Navarrete R. C. , Himes R. E. , Seheult J. M. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Xanthan gum has been used extensively in the oil industry as a viscosifier for different applications due to its unique rheological properties. In this paper we explore how the rheological behavior of xanthan-based fluids can be used to control fluid loss. Linear and radial flow tests were performed in 100-1,000 md rocks. The rheological characteristics of xanthan gum were measured in linear core flow tests. This constitutive flow behavior was used in a radial flow simulator to predict the invasion profile of xanthan gum in the formation. Radial flow tests were performed to validate the predictions from the simulator and to observe the effect of fluid loss additives such as starch and ground Berea.
A laboratory scale drilling simulator was used to determine the leakoff and formation damage of xanthan-based drilling fluids. The fluid was circulated through tubing and cuttings were removed from the annulus. Thin section analysis and environmental SEM were performed on rock samples taken at different distances from the wellbore to determine the nature and depth of the damage.
Results show that fines generated during the drilling process form an external filter cake which in combination with xanthan gum results in considerable fluid loss reduction. Damage due to xanthan gum is small and limited to a narrow thickness around the wellbore, resulting in negligible skin factors. The use of starch can lead to considerable damage and large skin factors if allowed to invade the formation.
Analysis of Production Data to Improve Characterization of In-situ Megascopic Reservoir Permeability
Authors: Chugh Shelin , Herweijer Joost , Kuppe Frank 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Critical to the success of history matching a 3D geoscience model is a link between coreplug scale permeability and megascopic scale reservoir permeability. This paper demonstrates how permeabilities derived from production data, complement core data and relatively short duration pressure transient analysis.
Heterogeneities related to the fluvial deltaic geology typically result in spatially heterogeneous permeability patterns that degrade or enhance the average permeability within the area of influence. In addition, the area of influence may not be radial (or elliptical) but rather a network of connected channels. The analysis presented for a tight multi-layered gas reservoir in the South Australian Cooper Basin shows aspects that reflect all these issues, hence contributing to further understanding of the dynamic behaviour of the 3D geo model.
Modelling the productivity and recovery in such heterogeneous reservoirs requires a good understanding and representation of the permeability distribution. Analytical work done prior to simulation of a multi-layered tight gas field in the South Australia Cooper Basin shows that the permeability is a function of the scale of measurement. Advanced decline methods such as the Inverted Decline Curve1 (IDC) and the Reciprocal Productivity Index2 (RPI), which use production data, have been used to estimate the megascopic reservoir permeability. This is particularly useful when little pressure transient analysis is available.
Furthermore, conventional pressure transient analysis can be misleading in tight gas reservoirs with heterogeneities.
Specifically, the work done demonstrates how to:
Interpret core and well test kh relative to production kh Generate effective kh values for a megascopic scale in fluvial environments Take into account hydraulic fractures and/or naturally occurring high permeability streaks Properly upscale the core plug permeability to the megascopic simulation scale
so that the reservoir simulation model can be pre-conditioned thereby reducing the time required to achieve a history match.
New Scale Inhibitor for Harsch Field Conditions
Authors: Pirri Rosangela , Hurtevent Christian , Leconte Philippe 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The aim of the work presented in this paper is to developp the best polymer usable for BaSO4 and CaCO3 scale inhibition in harsh field conditions (3 ≤ pH ≤ 6, 130 °C ≤ T°C ≤ 200°C, 2 ≤[Ca2+] ≤ 20 g/l, adsorption on the reservoir to allow injection by squeeze). The first objective was the thermal stability. It is known that sulfonated group permits to obtain it. Thus homopolymers made with different sulfonated monomers have been aged three week at 200°C and it has been checked by Infra Red measurements that their structure were not damaged by the test. Because in some cases after degradation of the polymer, the obtained oligomers can have scale inhibition behaviour but not adsorption. Then the monomers leading to the more stable polymers have been copolymerized with monomers bearing carboxylate function and their thermal stability have been checked. The second objective was the scale inhibition and the third was the neutral behaviour in contact with high levels of Ca2+. Series of copolymers have been synthesized in order to define what compositions and molecular weights were convenient to obtain the simultaneous inhibition of BaSO4 and CaCO3 scale and no precipitation when in contact with high levels of calcium ions. The last objective but not the least is the adsorption of the copolymer on the rock. This property is necessary for using the anti-scale additive in squeeze. For the polymers which answered at the first three conditions, injections in rock sample have been made to check the adsorption ability.
High-Pressure/High-Temperature Coiled Tubing Casing Collar Locator Provides Accurate Depth Control for Single-Trip Perforating
Authors: Connell Michael L. , Howard Robert G. , Glennon Christopher J. , Ligertwood John 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
A North Sea operator required a precise depth control method to enable coiled tubing (CT) conveyed perforating guns to be deployed in a single trip on a HPHT development project. During the initial development phase, the preferred method identified was to use CT logging reels to convey the perforating guns. This solution was however considered expensive and had associated concerns regarding electric-connection problems. It was determined that the use of a wireless coiled tubing collar locator (CTCL) would eliminate the need for CT logging reels. However, the CTCLs available at that time were not suitable for operation in these extremely high pressure/ high temperature (HPHT) wells.
This paper discusses the perforation technologies available to the operator, and the development of a wireless (HPHT) CTCL which solved the operator’s depth-control concerns.
Bit and Mill Selection and Design for Coiled Tubing Applications
Authors: Portman Lance , Short Bill 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper will identify the increasingly stringent requirements of bit and mill design associated with small holes (particularly &lt;3½") for use with coiled tubing. Recommendations are made on the correct slim hole bit/mill design to use when drilling a variety of different targets. In essence, this paper will show that as the bit/mill size decreases, the bit/mill choice becomes driven more by coil and downhole motor considerations; as the bit size increases, the bit choice becomes driven more by the properties of the target to be drilled.
Controlling Small Positive-Displacement Motors when used with Coiled Tubing and Compressible Fluids
Authors: Portman Lance , Ravensbergen John , Salim Paul 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper presents a method of overcoming some of the problems associated with drilling with positive displacement motors (PDM’s) using compressible fluids. The specific problems addressed are:
motor over-speeding resulting from sudden drops in motor load, often leading to stator "chunking". repeated stalls resulting from poor feedback of motor performance to the operator, resulting in poor effective rates of penetration (ROP’s) and reduced motor life.
Transient flow conditions dictate the phenomena listed above. This paper explains the theory behind the transient conditions that occur when the load on the motor suddenly changes due to inevitable changes in drilling conditions. A methodology is given that predicts the PDM’s rotational speed resulting from these sudden load changes. A solution is put forward that ensures that the total drilling "system" of the coil, the bottom hole assembly (BHA) and the motor is stable, efficient, controllable and not liable to self-destruct.
The Implementation of an Integrated Environment, Quality, Health and Safety Management System in the Brazilian Oil Industry
Authors: Amaral Sergio Pinto 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The implementation of an integrated Environment, Quality, Health and Safety Management Systems (EQHS) in an organisation is a rational and efficient manner of increasing performance and optimising resources in the management of these functions. In Brazil, the subject is new and has aroused controversy, and only a few enterprises are adopting integrated management systems. In this paper are presented some examples of integrated EQHS management systems that are being implemented in the Exploration and Production (E&P), Transportation, Refining and Distribution sectors of the operational units of Petrobras, the State-Owned Brazilian Oil Company. Corporate actions about the integration of EQHS management systems being adopted by the Company, including policies, guidelines, manuals and audits, are discussed. In our Company, the certification process will for the time being continue independent, with separate certifications, until ISO adopts a single integrated management system standard that is well accepted world-wide. Finally, our intention in this paper is to encourage the use of integrated environment, quality, health and safety management systems by companies inside and outside the oil business.
Safety Control in Offshore E&P Contractor Operations
Authors: Gourh Ramesh C. , Chakraborty Ashok B. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Safety and Environment Protection are not only critical but also extremely important in the offshore exploration and production operations. A large number of offshore operations particularly in the area of engineering, construction, drilling and production, repair, maintenance, logging, house keeping / catering and O & M contract of supply vessels etc. are some major activities which are undertaken by the contractors and their employees. Engagement of contractors and contracting out the activities / services, maintained an upward trend which is likely to continue in future as well. The overall safety of offshore operations are dependent significantly on ensuring safety control which is required to be exercised by the E & P contractors. In the absence of offshore statutory regulations or with the existing minimal legal requirements, the task of monitoring and controlling the contractor activities to ensure safety control becomes an onerous task.
In this paper, the execution, monitoring and the control of safety and environment aspects pertaining to the contractor activities at the operational sites of engineering & construction have been covered. The areas requiring control, assessment of the situation, its analysis and control procedures / mechanism, were reviewed and studied. Based on the review, the changes required in the procedures and practices were initiated for an overall improvement. The nature of work undertaken during the improvement process, was to ensure that the thrust on safety control was mainly performance oriented instead of a prescriptive one. The other related aspects were the issuance of guidelines on the preparation of safety report by the contractors of offshore activities and its implementation.
Both, the company engaging the contractors and the contractor company, attached great importance to the health, safety and environment management at its project sites which resulted in considerable reduction in the accident rate and near miss incidents. A "Booster Compressor" project in ONGC, costing 316 million (approx.) and engaging 1200 persons during construction has been completed recently without any hazard incident. The emphasis was laid mainly on the assessment of hazards, its control measures and the emergency preparedness. The main thrust in this paper is on the sharing and review of experience.
Field Trial of Alternative Weight Material with Improved Occupational Hygiene and Environmental Performance
Authors: Fjogstad A. , Saasen A. , Hagen R. , Tanche-Larsen P. B. , Ree R. , Melgren H. , Rostad E. , Hoset H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Barite has to date been the most common weighting material for drilling fluids. Several heavy metal components are associated with the barite. During discharge of drilled cuttings from the use of water based drilling fluid some parts of these heavy metals can be dissolved into the sea. If oil based drilling fluid is used no discharge of drilled cuttings is allowed into the sea on the Norwegian Continental shelf. This cuttings can be re-injected into the formation or can be brought onshore for treatment. If barite is heated to more than 850°C during this treatment, the toxic component barium oxide may be released. The negative impacts from the use of barite in drilling fluids can be avoided if an alternative weight material is used.
On the Norne field in Norway a field trial was performed using ilmenite as the weighting material. The paper describes the improved heavy metal content of the ilmenite compared to the barite. Furthermore, it is shown that the heavy metals present are not as biologically available in ilmenite as in barite.
The paper describe how the ilmenite improved the ability for the fluid to be recycled and reused. Ilmenite is more resistant to grinding during the drilling process, resulting in more stable particle size distribution. This implies a reduced need for dilution of the drilling fluid. This leads to reduced discharges to the sea if water based drilling fluid is used, and less volume to handle and treat in the case of oil based drilling.
The dark color of the ilmenite made it easier to detect and repair any leaks in the transport and bulk handling systems offshore. This will lead to reduced dust problems and an improved occupational hygiene. No significant dust problems were observed during the test at Norne.
Prioritising Environmental Investment through Sustainable Development Targets
Authors: Holgate M. J. M. , Kerr S. A. , King A. , Wilson J. L. J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Which is worse - emitting 100 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere or discharging 1 tonne of oil into the sea? This paper will show how sustainable development targets can provide a common basis for comparing different types of environmental impact. The cost of meeting corporate sustainable development targets for different environmental themes is derived. The results are then used to prioritise environmental investment decisions. Specifically, this paper describes: the use of environmental effects (such as Global Climate Change) rather than activities (such as flaring) for measuring environmental performance;how to derive corporate targets for exploration and production operations from sustainable development targets in international and national sources;the determination of annual environmental budgets by spreading the implementation cost of a sustainable development programme over an agreed timeframe;attracting support from business units and using their input to estimate the cost of meeting sustainable development targets for current and planned activities;deriving a price tag for different environmental themes;the use of results to prioritise environmental investment decisions.
Use of a Recently Developed Model System in Oil Spill Response Analysis
Authors: Singsaas Ivar , Reed Mark , Daling Per S. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper describes how simulations with a recently developed model system have been used as input to a Net Environmental Benefit Analysis, to evaluate a strategy for use of chemical dispersants as an integrated part of the initial response at two Norwegian oil fields. A scenario with release of 100 m3 crude oil has been used as an example.
The results indicate that the use of chemical dispersants generally gives a faster removal of oil from the sea surface, as compared to mechanical recovery. On the other hand, dispersant application increases somewhat the concentrations of dispersed oil and dissolved oil components in the water column. The dispersed and dissolved oil dilutes to low levels within a few hours in deep water. Based on a NEBA evaluation it is suggested that mechanical recovery be given priority during the fish spawning season, while dispersant application should be prioritised during periods with high sea bird activity in the area.
Bilateral Russian-Norwegian Co-Operation on Environmental Impact Assessment
Authors: Dahle S. , Shagarova L. , Sander G. , Larsen L-H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Major hydrocarbon reserves have been identified offshore in the Russian part of the Barents Sea, and hydrocarbons have also been discovered in the Norwegian sector. Sharing environmental responsibility of the Barents Sea, and with the ESPOO convention of transboundary pollution impacts in mind, a need for common understanding and addressing the environmental challenges connected to offshore petroleum development in this region became apparent. As part of the ongoing environmental co-operation between Russia and Norway, the Norwegian - Russian environmental commission in 1998 initiated a process aiming at exchange of experience and knowledge, and harmonisation of the two countries' guidelines and practise within Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of offshore oil and gas activities.
During spring 1999 two expert seminars were carried out, one in Archangel and one in Murmansk. The seminars were attended by a broad spectre of representatives from several levels of Russian and Norwegian environmental administration, environmental specialists and representatives from oil companies. At both seminars the two countries' guidelines and regulating systems were thoroughly presented and evaluated. Working groups summed up strengths and weaknesses in the two systems, and four major themes were pointed out for further studies:
Comparison and evaluation of a specific Norwegian and a specific Russian EIA of an off-shore oil or gas development project Conduct a joint EIA of a model field development in the Barents Sea Feasibility study for a joint Russian - Norwegian regional EIA for the Barents Sea Develop a regional Norwegian - Russian oil spill contingency plan
Systematic Analysis of Operational Safety of FPSOs Reveals Areas of Improvement
Authors: Vinnem J. E. , Hauge S. , Huglen Ø. , Kieran O. , Kirwan B. , Rettedal W. K. , Skåren T. , Thomas J. J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Floating installations in general and FPSO systems in particular, combine traditional process technology with marine technology, and are thus quite dependent on operational safety control. It is essential that scenarios involving potential loss of operational control are assessed at an early stage in the design of new facilities, in order to optimise technical and operational solutions. The paper briefly reviews the safety characteristics and records for FPSOs, focusing on operational safety aspects. This is followed by a discussion of possible approaches to predictive assessment of operational safety.
Integrated Environmental Risk Management of Future Produced Water Disposal Options at Draugen on the Norwegian Continental Shelf
Authors: Vik E. A. , Bakke S. , Stang P. , Edvardsson T. , Gadeholt G. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
Cost/environmental benefit comparisons of different produced water disposal options were performed for the Draugen platform on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. Comparison of the environmental risk for the year of maximum water production, as well as the integrated environmental risk for the predicted lifetime of the field was made for the different produced water disposal options. Discharges of natural constituents, as well as residual production and injection chemicals in produced water were included in the risk assessment. High level cost environmental benefit evaluations have been carried out. A Base Case, meeting the present oil in water discharge permit was defined. Differences in cost/environmental benefit of the potential disposal options were quantitatively compared to the Base Case. Uncertainties in the figures are discussed. The work presented here is one of the inputs to the Draugen produced water disposal programme. Feasibility studies will develop more reliable cost and performance data. Decisions on future produced water disposal at Draugen will be based on the final results and recommendations in the produced water programme. An approach has also been suggested and used for weighting potential long-term effects of the discharges. This provides important additional information to the risk assessment results.
Competency Based Training for Drilling Contractors
Authors: Ahern Dan 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
The difficulties of demonstrating competency of drilling personnel are discussed as well as the opportunity to improve the level of competency assurance within the industry. The benefits of competency based training are explained in terms of cost effectiveness, practicality, safety and productivity. A brief description is given of the various competency assurance schemes, and an argument is put forward to develop internationally recognised standards of competency for the drilling industry.
Crew Resource Management for Offshore Teams: Development and Evaluation
Authors: O'Connor P. , Flin R. H. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
This paper describes a project sponsored by 13 companies and the HSE (OSD) to apply a form of human factors training called Crew Resource Management (CRM), which is widely used in aviation, to the training of offshore platform teams. The aim of the project was to design, deliver and evaluate the training. 104 offshore workers from five different production platforms have participated in the course. Their feedback was generally positive. However, it also indicated a need to incorporate more offshore case studies and to place emphasis on the skills, rather than the theoretical concepts of the topics covered in the training.
10 Years of Environmental Monitoring at Danish North Sea Platforms
Authors: Robson M. , Petersen S. , Birklund J. 
Published: December 2007

Abstract
In 1989 Mærsk Olie og Gas AS (Maersk Oil) initiated a monitoring programme at selected North Sea platforms, focusing on sediment chemistry and benthic fauna composition and abundance. In 1998 the results of the first 10 years' monitoring were reviewed and analysed.
The main conclusions of the study are:
– drilling discharges are the cause of local impact at the localities investigated, but the major changes in the bottom fauna during the 10-year period are linked to natural factors varying in space and time. – variations in bottom fauna composition are correlated to barium and hydrocarbon concentrations in the sediment, leading to a characteristic zonation pattern with major impacts mainly at the 100 m and some 250m stations, and minor impacts observable at some 750m and 1500m stations. – spreading and mixing of the bottom sediment reduce chemical contamination after cessation of discharge. Hydrocarbon levels decline more rapidly than barium levels, possibly due to natural degradation of hydrocarbons. – the reduced contamination after cessation of discharges leads to reductions in the biological impact, but the recovery of some species such as the brittle star Amphiura filiformis is slow. This species appears to be the most sensitive to contamination.