Oil/Gas Field

What it is

Oil and gas fields are characterized by the geological structure of the field, as well as by the quality and composition of the production streams. Each set of conditions requires unique recovery processes. New discoveries of oil and gas reserves generally require drilling of very deep wells. As a consequence, the wellhead equipment must be capable of handling high temperature/high pressure hydrocarbons, with a high degree of reliability.

How it works

Oil and gas reserves are brought to the surface through piping that runs the entire depth of the well, and is hung within a steel casing. Since the casing diameter is larger than that of the piping, there is a void space or "annulus" between the tubing and the casing.

In many oil reservoirs the naturally occurring pressure is sufficient to force the crude oil to the surface of the well. This production process is called "primary recovery" and generally does not require the use of a compressor. But the duration of the primary recovery is limited because at a certain point the natural energy to lift the oil is no longer sufficient. After this point, a compressor and choke valve combination is used to restore or increase the pressure in the field. This phase of the well's life, known as Gas Depletion, is a form of secondary recover.

In situations where the oil reservoir pressure is not sufficient to ensure the desired level of production, pumping systems may also be added. Enhanced recovery systems are often installed to increase production and/or to avoid decline of production over the years and increase the recovery ratio (See Re-injection Plant).

GE Oil & Gas Offerings

  • Gas Turbine packages for power generation (10 to 34 MW)
  • Mechanical Drive Gas Turbines (10 to 34 MW)
  • Centrifugal Compressors
  • Field Reciprocating Compressors
  • Oil-free Screw Compressors and Rotary Vane Compressors
  • Centrifugal Pumps
  • Compression/Pumping packages
  • Compression and/or PowerGen islands
  • Air Cooled Heat Exchangers
  • Control and Safety Valves
  • Product Installation & Maintenance Services
  • Revamps & Rerates
  • Contractual Service Agreements
  • Technical Training