Since the late 1990s, remote operations centers have focused on infrastructure and remote data gathering as some of the key resources in the intelligent oil field. Data gathering has low direct value unless used to mitigate risk and enhance operational efficiency. Rigsite experts work under the framework of health safety and environment (HS&E) and operational progress, with limited ability to analyze data. There is limited value in data gathering without real-time analysis of the information. This analysis is becoming one of the most important factors of daily work in remote operations centers. Real-time analysis is performed by multi-disciplinary teams, and remedial action can be taken immediately to mitigate risk. This is the strength and force of the operational centers; available interpretation technologies and time to perform the tasks in an environment without the rigsite stress factors.
During traditional operations, the wellsite personnel are responsible for the well and for ensuring nothing hazardous occurs, or taking action before or after an unwanted occurrence. In many cases, this is too late. Operations center planning, modeling and analysis – to avoid unwanted situations - are all part of the operational procedure, providing trends and thresholds for procedure change prior to an incident.
The wellsite personnel determine indications of well instability with potential to lead to extensive use of resources to ensure stable conditions. This is often based on experience and local knowledge.
The onshore team focuses on proactive processes to ensure the overall operational progress is conducted in a safe manner.
To illustrate data gathering and risk mitigation of a remote operational center, the BEACON center concept is used to display rigsite workflow, data analysis and feedback for maximum progress and minimum risk. Subsurface knowledge through drilling optimization and BHA reliability will be covered.
