Issue: August 2015
Special Focus
Results of testing, to evaluate different mechanisms that could damage the product in the presence of a sour environment, indicate a positive effect from full-body heat treatment.
A detailed, comprehensive approach, addressing all of the involved uncertainties, should help simulate a more actual scenario and improve the accuracies of wear estimation.
Features
Although this year’s major upstream downturn is inflicting considerable pain on producers and equipment/service companies, alike, it also is stimulating additional technical creativity and progress across all disciplines of the North American industry.
In response to the prolonged oil slump, operators have slashed spending, postponed large-scale projects and laid off staff. Canada’s industry associations have downgraded their 2015 forecasts, as well.
Less than a year after the enactment of Mexico’s new energy reform law, which was promulgated in June 2014, the Director General of national oil company Pemex, Emilio Lozaya, announced significant new oil and gas discoveries in the country.
SAGD oil recovery requires the most efficient use of the generated steam. Researchers set out to build a steam-injection flow-control device capable of operating reliably throughout the life of a well.
Although the upstream industry is mired in tough market conditions, its future depends on drawing and retaining the proper people, as well as developing more advanced technologies, both of which can be a challenge.
The drop in oil price has had a significant negative impact in a region with already many challenges. The UK has been hit hardest, with Norway suffering less; but, still forced to delay projects.
Fewer rigs, less production
Now, more than ever before, operators must identify best practices for subsea decommissioning of wells and infrastructure, to reduce cost and minimize the risk of pollution.
Columns
Wall Street giveth, taketh away
Let us not drown our sorrows
The latest in exploration is older than dirt
Old-school can’t be ignored
Automation’s imperative
ROVs play increasing role in offshore development
In Latin America, PDVSA adjusts to price uncertainty
Retention of key personnel is a major challenge
F. Tim Pease: From dry land to the high seas
Unconventional operators use technology as antidote to industry downturn
News & Resources
World of oil and gas
Industry at a glance
People in the industry
New products and services
Companies in the news
