About This Item

Share This Item

The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 53 (1969)

Issue: 3. (March)

First Page: 705

Last Page: 706

Title: Summary of Offshore Exploration and Production: ABSTRACT

Author(s): Thomas D. Barrow

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

During the last decade, the continental offshore has emerged as a major petroleum-producing province and the leading area for future growth. The petroleum industry has invested more than $7 billion in exploration of the shelves of the continental United States. Major offshore areas produce approximately 1 MM b/d of oil, more than 10% of U.S. production. Spurred by increased demands, gas production will assume a more important role in future offshore operations. In 1968, gas gatherers filed six major pipeline applications for 1969 construction of 800 mi of big-inch pipeline that will cost $290 million.

Early offshore activity adapted onshore techniques to shallow-water installations. Gradual evolution to greater water depths and more hostile environments followed. Industry has developed designs for offshore structures and spent more than $5 million to gather oceanographic data; several major programs currently are active.

Exploration technology has been sharpened because of intense competition and high costs. New sources of seismic energy for marine exploration have almost supplanted dynamite. To improve exploratory drilling, many types of mobile rigs have been developed, the first of which became operational in 1950. Industry continually has extended its capability and in 1968 drilled in 1,300 ft of water.

Although production facilities take many forms, including single-well templates, the most common is the large multiwell platform. During 1967, a 12-well platform was installed in 340 ft of water. Current designs suggest that platform construction is feasible to depths of 1,000 ft. Through continued development, underwater completions may evolve as a major producing method.

The large amount of bidding at 1968 offshore sales emphasized industry's need to develop new reserves. This need will continue into the foreseeable future;

End_Page 705------------------------------

thus our continental margin will become increasingly important as a source of supply for new oil and gas.

End_of_Article - Last_Page 706------------

Copyright 1997 American Association of Petroleum Geologists