Innovative satellite control software developed by Chippenham-based specialist IT firm SciSys is to be used in a trial to automate oil and gas pipeline drilling processes.
SciSys’ APEX software has been chosen by the European Space Agency (ESA) for the project. Originally designed to control in-flight satellite telemetry, it has now been adapted to monitor operating procedures in oilfield drilling and has been successfully trialled on a live oil rig.
ESA is funding the project as part of a technology transfer initiative to see if routine parts of the drilling business can be automated
Drilling operators work in very challenging conditions, often on 12-hour shifts, and can have so much information coming back at them they’re often overwhelmed with data.
By installing automation software, hard-pressed drill operators would be able to focus on the key actions that require human decision-making and leave repetitive tasks to the computer.
SciSys’ APEX tool is ideal for this situation and is already well established in satellite control rooms that face similar challenges.
SciSys is working with global oilfield services provider Schlumberger on the project.
So far APEX has been successfully tested in a number of ESA-funded trials (including the live trial) to prove the concept and ESA has just formally announced the success of the project. Schlumberger engineers will shortly commence further training in the tool for a more detailed trial later this year. Should this also prove successful then it could be fully deployed next year.
SciSys business development manager Chris Lee said: “It is this type of technical innovation that will result in cost savings and environmental progress in an industry which is both competitive and often politically sensitive.
“SciSys has been focussed on transferring technology across its divisions and this is a very good example of that initiative in practice.”
SciSys recently announced an 83% rise in pre-tax profits to £1.1m in the six months to June 30 against the same period last year with revenue up 5% to £22m. However, remains cautious that some of its key markets will remain tough due to government spending cuts.
