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Vol. 231 No. 12 |
Drilling problem prediction
Verdande Technology AS and Shell Upstream Americas have begun using unique case-based reasoning technology to predict and identify drilling problems in difficult Middle East wells. The launch of Verdande’s DrillEdge software follows extensive testing from a global set of wells with challenges including drill pipe twist-off, stuck pipe and stick-slip. DrillEdge uses case-based reasoning to achieve computerized intelligent behavior. When a new event is recognized, such as symptoms leading to twist-off, stuck pipe or lost circulation, the software retrieves past cases that are most relevant to the current situation and displays them on a “radar” screen. This information allows an engineering team to better interpret the new situation and provide mitigation advice based on company best practices and lessons learned. Additional datasets are being developed to increase the types of problems that can be diagnosed and number of examples of each that can be recalled. Shell plans to deploy DrillEdge through its network of real-time operating centers.
Man-overboard indicator BriarTek’s Orca TX-103IS man-overboard indicator is a safety beacon designed specifically for dangerous and volatile environments. Certified as a UL913 intrinsically safe apparatus for use in Class I, II and III, Division I hazardous locations, the indicator is activated within 3 to 5 seconds of submersion in freshwater or saltwater. The transmitter signals the Orca receiver aboard the ship or drilling platform and illuminates its integrated strobe light. Once activated, it has a 36-hour battery life. Factory-programmed to signal all other Orca receivers within range, the indicator broadcasts the user’s relative bearing and identification information. The beacon can be tracked by any search-and-rescue assets using radio direction finders, and provides continuous relative bearing to the user’s location. An effective range of up to 18 nautical miles has been documented. The device measures 3.18 by 2.2 in., and weighs 6.6 oz.
Environmental evaluation of oilfield chemcals
Multi-Chem, a provider of oilfield production and completion chemicals, has introduced its new NaturaLine service targeted at providing sound environmental practices to its customers’ oilfield applications. The service enables Multi-Chem to collaborate with customers to develop the most effective and environmentally conscious options to their completion challenges by using product evaluation processes that account for environmental effects and provide comprehensive analysis to make informed decisions and product selections. All recommended products receive a ranking based upon selected environmental and health-based criteria, and this information is provided along with technical and cost performance information. The customers can independently evaluate the products, demonstrating a commitment to the communities in which they operate.
Hydraulic IBOP actuator GDS International has announced the release of a new hydraulic actuator for inside blowout preventers (IBOPs). The advanced actuator’s unique design allows it to open or close the top drive while the top drive is in rotation. This feature eliminates a problem associated with other actuator models, which must stop rotating before opening or closing. The compact body of the actuator also allows ample room for the elevator links to pass by, and its simple design has fewer parts and seals. The IBOP actuator is designed to fit any major brand of top drive.
Sand-handling system
Industrial services provider BIS Salamis and topsides process technology company Merpro Ltd. have partnered to launch Restore, an all-encompassing sand-removal system for the offshore oil and gas industry. The mobile system, which has a substantially smaller footprint than other products available, allows for online solids removal at operating pressure, eliminating the requirement for production shutdown. The system combines the usual separate stages of sand washing, solids removal, storage and disposal, effectively making it an integral part of the production system.
Real-time accounting of personnel
Marine Rescue Technologies has released the MusterGuard system for use in oil rigs, vessels and plants. The system was designed in response to recent offshore and chemical plant explosions. MusterGuard provides automated real-time accounting of personnel during an emergency evacuation or a muster drill. Muster drill, reports and record keeping are mandatory maritime requirements. The system provides a list of personnel on board or on premises, including key data, trade certificates, cabin number, work area and primary duties during an evacuation or muster drill. At the check-in point, the muster officer and captain receive a real-time report of who is expected, who is missing and who has shown up at the wrong station. In the event that first responders are called in, management can direct them to the work areas or cabin numbers of missing personnel. The IT-based system installs on a standard local area network, uses standard communication protocols, and runs on standard devices such as PCs, laptops and servers, all network addressable.
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