Drilling Contractor | Archive

‘Multi machine control’ enhances automation

Posted on 08 September 2010 in 2010, Automation, Rig Equipment, September/October

Drillfloor equipment controls and associated equipment on the latest generation of floating drilling vessels have evolved into a “system” of computer-controlled machines that are currently operated by multiple operators…

Control systems integration an ongoing challenge

Posted on 04 February 2010 in 2010, Automation, Deepwater Operations, Global Market Trends, January/February, Offshore Operations, Opinion

Critical D&C issues with Tim Juran, Seadrill Americas. Seadrill has delivered eight modern, highly sophisticated deepwater newbuilds in the last 15-18 months. What are the key challenges you’ve faced in doing that? …

Smart drilling a must as wells push technical limit

Posted on 04 February 2010 in 2010, Automation, Deepwater Operations, January/February, Offshore Operations, Opinion

Critical D&C issues with Ron Toufeeq, Pride International. Ron Toufeeq is senior vice president of operations, asset management and engineering for Pride International. What are some of the most critical issues facing the drilling and completion industry in…

Automation’s learning curve must be overcome

Posted on 04 February 2010 in 2010, Automation, Global Market Trends, January/February, Land Operations, Opinion, Rig Equipment

Critical D&C issues with Ed Kautz, Ensign Energy Services. Implementing automation technologies and equipment on land drilling rigs is still not universally accepted. Are you a believer in technology and automation? …

Top drives key to better jackup performance

Posted on 04 February 2010 in 2010, Automation, Global Market Trends, HSE & Training, January/February, Land Operations, Offshore Operations, Opinion

Matt Ralls is president and CEO of Rowan Companies. He is also the 2010 IADC vice chairman. What do you see as some of the most critical technology challenges facing the drilling and completion industry today? Rowan is a jackup and…

Automated system provides well control for extreme drilling environments, enhances MPD

Posted on 10 November 2009 in 2009, Automation, Innovating While Drilling, MPD & UBO, November/December, Well Control

The essence of well control is information. Ideally, downhole information facilitates a knowledgeable, expert response to prevent a costly or even…

Automated drilling and real-time drilling process monitoring optimize RSS underreamer technology

Posted on 30 October 2009 in 2008, Automation, July/August

By Junichi Sugiura, Steve Jones, PathFinder Energy Services The advancement in deeper drilling programs and directional wells with multiple casing strings have urged the use of an expandable reamer in which casing pass-through ceases to be a restriction. Significant cost savings on enlarging the hole can be obtained by drilling with a rotary steerable system [...]