Drilling rigs keep the pace: Land rig development prepares for current and future demand

摘要

Drilling success in land operations depends on a number of variables. Aside from drilling time and downhole tool performance, land rigs are defined primarily by the level to which equipment can automate portions of the drilling process and the speed at which the equipment can move. According to Douglas-Westwood's recent "World Land Drilling Rig Market Report 2011-2015," North American demand has been re-incentivized through growth commodity prices. According to the report, drilling activity is likely to reach historic levels in North America, but internationally there will be less growth. Douglas-West-wood analysts estimate an excess of 5% growth in rig demand per year through 2015 within key markets on each continent. Key players who can deliver compact, highly automated rigs with increased mobility will remain at the top of the food chain through this growth period.