Jerry L. Logan

A study of bulk cement handling and testing procedures

The variation between thickening-time test results from test on pilot blends cement-blend sample tests has been a subject of frequent investigation. Disagreement between these test results is often blamed on improper additive proportioning, inadequate blending, or incorrect sampling techniques. A study of blending, sampling, and testing variables was conducted. This paper describes the results of this research testing with a full-scale laboratory bulk plant. It also includes the results of a south Texas field study in which thickening time test results from more than 300 cement-blend samples were examined. Results of these studies suggest that significant statistical variations may be involved in blending, sampling, and testing procedures under deep-well conditions. The variabilities are used as guidelines for determining thickening-time acceptance windows. Variabilities or uncertainties can be minimized by optimization and standardization of these procedures.

Alliances and Partnering: A New Relationship Between Oil/Gas Producing Companies and Service Companies

Abstract The current state of the energy industry finds both the operating and service companies squeezed by lower prices and higher costs. Investment in exploration, equipment and technology has been severely restricted. Many operators are responding to these harsh market conditions by re-engineering their work processes and focusing on core business activities. Re-engineered work processes encourage operators and service companies to work closely together. This motivates both parties to eliminate duplication, simplify processes, increase efficiency and capitalize on combined expertise to enhance production and optimizing total system cost. Alliances and partnering are based on mutual trust and the commitment to add value to both organizations. Aligning interests is fundamental in establishing a lasting and mutually beneficial relationship. This paper presents an overview of these new relationships. The benefits and concerns of changing from traditional bidding agreements to new business arrangements between producing companies and service companies is discussed. Evaluation criteria for potential candidates, how to structure an alliance or partnering agreement and a discussion of the key issues in the application of incentive contracts is presented.