Sunday, February 19, 2012

What to Expect from an Exploration Pipeline Supplier



Petroleum exploration relies on advanced techniques used in places believed to contain hydrocarbon resources. Evaluation of an area's magnetic and seismic properties helps explorers find sub-surface geological features indicating the possible presence of hydrocarbons. After geophysical tests, an exploration well is drilled to determine definitively whether oil or gas is present in these areas.

Expense and Risk in Oil Exploration

Finding new oil reserves is expensive, and involves considerable risk. When it comes to exploring remote areas or potential offshore oil fields, usually only major petroleum companies or national governments are involved. Finding the type of shallow shelf wells that are found in the North Sea costs up to $30 million, and exploring deep water sources can easily cost $100 million. Even the smallest oil exploration projects on land cost upward of $100,000.

How Pipes are Used in Oil Exploration

Drill pipe is thick-walled pipe made of steel that is used on rigs to create a wellbore. Drill pipe manufacturers typically make it in lengths of about 30 feet. Drilling fluid is pumped through drill pipe into the hole, and back up in the space between the drill pipe and drill stem, a wider pipe surrounding the drill pipe. The drill pipe assembly, collectively known as a drill string, must penetrate the earth's crust to depths of a mile or more.

What an Exploration Pipeline Supplier Should Provide

Drill pipe manufacturers cannot cut corners due to the risk and expense of oil exploration. Your supplier should have extensive experience in oil exploration, and should have a keen understanding of your schedule and delivery needs. All pipes used in petroleum exploration should adhere to the applicable standards of the American Petroleum Institute (API) and other industry standard organizations.

Choosing your Supplier

The best supplier for exploration pipeline is one with engineers on staff with experience in the oil industry who understand exactly what is needed and when it is needed. Your supplier should have the inventory necessary to fill your needs, and should have a distribution network that can get the product to you on time and on budget.

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