• Oil & Gas,Pipeline
“Our Biggest Expense Is Produced Water”
Catch produced water leaks early, reduce remediation costs.
Précis
- Problem: Brine leaks are expensive.
- Solution: Catch them early.
- Benefit: Less damage, less remediation, less cost.
While the topic of methane is front and center in the boardroom, another challenge faced by oil and gas operators often carries a heftier price tag. A recent conversation with a potential customer started with a deep dive on the topic of methane emissions, but it slowly morphed into a revelation that our ability to identify produced water leaks in their infancy would address a much bigger business and financial challenge than that presented by methane.
Produced water, or brine, is the natural byproduct of oil and gas production, as shale rock releases the hydrocarbon molecules contained within the mineral. In many basins, the ratio of brine-to-crude oil produced is six to one or more. Similarly, gas wells also produce brine that must be disposed of safely and cost-effectively. This is typically accomplished via a system of gathering lines that transport brine to a central re-injection well.
Satelytics’ produced water algorithm analyzes 30- to 50-centimeter spatial resolution satellite imagery, returning alerts hours after overpassing. Specifically, the algorithm looks for the spectral signature of chlorides and other chemicals found in produced water. This solution has been deployed across multiple basins worldwide with great success.
Produced water leak alert example.
Here are a few common questions and answers surrounding produced water identification from satellites.
Q: Does the algorithm distinguish between a pool of melt or rainwater and brine?
A: Yes. The algorithm specifically looks for the high-salinity constituents mentioned above.
Q: Does the algorithm identify produced water leaks below grade?
A: No. However, Satelytics can identify small leaks through vegetative uptake, which results in the death of the grass or plants surrounding the source.
Q: Does there have to be a pool of produced water for the algorithm to correctly identify the leak?
A: No. Exposed soil or well pad gravel that the brine has wetted will yield a signature and can be positively identified.
Satelytics has numerous case studies of customers using our produced water algorithm to catch leaks early, thus avoiding expensive remediation efforts. Let’s schedule a time today for a produced water advanced leak detection discussion to reduce a common oil and gas business expense!
