In the era of rapid technological advancements, the oil and gas industry is undergoing a transformational shift by embracing the concept of the digital oilfield. As a leading player in the energy sector, Cairn Oil and Gas recognises the potential of technology to revolutionise operations, enhance efficiency, and optimise resource utilisation.
Let us explore the groundbreaking innovations and transformative impact of the digital oilfield, shedding light on how Vedanta Cairn Oil and Gas is undergoing a digital revolution.
3D Seismic
Cairn employs advanced 3D seismic technology in the complex central basin of the Rajasthan block. This technology enables detailed mapping, reduced drilling risks, and improved reservoir prediction. Through innovative workflows, such as merging seismic vintages and utilising local angle domain imaging, Cairn enhances fault definition and minimises drilling risks in various fields. Additionally, stochastic inversion technology helps delineate thin beds and build detailed reservoir models for reduced drilling risks. Mega merge seismic processing integrates multiple 3D surveys, facilitating the identification and de-risking of new exploration prospects in the Rajasthan block.
Enhanced Oil Recovery
Polymer flooding is a groundbreaking technology for enhancing oil recovery in older reservoirs. Cairn Oil and Gas has achieved significant milestones in the Cairn Oil and Gas Barmer’s Mangala field, including successful full-field polymer injection and the operation of the world's largest centralised polymer mixing facility. This approach has led to reduced water cuts and improved oil production. The success in Mangala has prompted the expansion of polymer EOR to the Bhagyam and Aishwariya fields, resulting in initial positive results. Cairn Oil and Gas continues to push boundaries in maximising oil recovery and unlocking the potential of mature reservoirs.
Artificial Lift
Artificial lift plays a crucial role in enhancing well productivity by providing the necessary energy to bring fluids to the surface. Across the globe, over 90% of the approximately one million oil and gas wells rely on artificial lift methods. Cairn Oil and Gas stands out as a leader in this field, with more than 95% of their hydrocarbon production utilising fit-for-purpose artificial lift technologies. Cairn remains at the forefront of implementing a diverse range of advanced artificial lift techniques to optimise and extend production. The organisation employs various methods, including jet pump, Electric Submersible Pump (ESP), Progressive Cavity Pump (PCP), Sucker Rod Pump (SRP), and gas lift, to meet the unique requirements of their operations.
Hydraulic Fracturing
Cairn has become a leader in hydraulic fracturing, utilising the technique to appraise and develop tight oil and gas fields. They have successfully employed fracking in volcanic gas reservoir systems, achieving one of the largest commercial developments of its kind globally. Through advanced fracture diagnostics and limited entry fracturing, Cairn has increased reservoir pay coverage from 60% to 85%. They have also set impressive milestones, such as executing the largest frac job in India, implementing innovative technologies, and drilling the longest onshore lateral section in the country. Cairn's relentless pursuit of excellence in hydraulic fracturing has revolutionised oil and gas extraction from low permeability reservoirs, showcasing their commitment to cutting-edge techniques and superior reservoir characterisation.
Alkaline Surfactant Polymer
ASP (Alkaline-Surfactant-Polymer) flooding is a technique that involves injecting alkali, surfactant, and polymer into the reservoir to enhance crude oil extraction. Polymers increase water viscosity for better sweep efficiency, while surfactants reduce interfacial tension, improving microscopic displacement. Alkaline chemicals generate soap to reduce surfactant adsorption. This synergistic approach maximises oil recovery and unlocks the reservoir's potential.
The digital oilfield is reshaping the oil and gas industry, and Cairn Oil and Gas stands ahead in this transformative journey. The digital oilfield enables the company to optimise production, enhance efficiency, minimise environmental impact, and ensure sustainable resource utilisation. As technology continues to advance, Cairn Oil and Gas remains committed to driving innovation and leveraging the power of the digital oilfield to shape a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future for the oil and gas industry.
