1 MB pdf - Saudi Aramco

We operate in very remote areas in the Kingdom, andsome of these remote operations are mobile, suchas for exploration, drilling and marine activities. Thecommunication needs for these activities can be metonly with specialized satellite systems known asVSATs (Very Small Aperture Terminals). We haveused this technology since 2001, but as our drillingschedule has accelerated, the need for greater highcapacitycommunications links has grown. To meetthis need, we have tripled the amount of bandwidthwe lease, raising the total from 72 to 216 megahertz.The new VSAT system provides robust communicationsto 300 remote sites and allows higher transmissionspeeds in support of powerful computing applicationssuch as real-time well log data and remote monitoringof seismic activities.... we arealso utilizingtechnologiesbelow groundas we seekto maximizeultimate recovery.In addition to our efforts to leverage technologyabove ground, we are also utilizing technologiesbelow ground as we seek to maximize ultimaterecovery from our fields.We are widely recognized as an industry leader in usingadvanced technology throughout our upstreamoperations. Today, Intelligent Well technology,geosteering, MRC wells and the revolutionary i-Fieldor “Intelligent Field” concept are routinely applied inour new crude oil developments.A key indicator of the role improved technology canplay in maximizing production is that, for the seventhstraight year, we lowered the aggregate water-cut inour producing fields to an overall average of less than25 percent.Recent advances in drilling technology are helpingus meet our commitment to increased production —faster, better and at lower cost. For example, modificationof the 18-5/8-inch casing point has enabled us to drilla smaller 16-inch hole section in certain reservoirs witha better rate of penetration. Net savings are 15 daysof rig time.OUR STATE-OF-THE-ART GEOSTEERING OPERATIONS CENTER IS STAFFEDROUND THE CLOCK BY GEOLOGISTS AND ENGINEERS WHO REMOTELYGUIDE DRILLING ACTIVITIES IN REAL TIME.ANNUAL REVIEW 2006 17