Posted on: 02. 28. 20
The oil and gas industry is one that is filled to the brim with terminology. From the inner workings of local facilities to the swarm of activity at an active drill site, there are several terms we throw around that would leave the average person scratching their heads.
At Pro-Gas, LLC, we understand that the community as a whole is what makes our industry go ‘round, and have decided to let you in on some of our ‘top secret’ jargon. Here are seven terms that are old hat to us but could be a fun conversation topic the next time you use an appliance powered by American oil and gas.
1. Blowout
No, this isn’t in reference to a baby’s diaper, but a blowout in the oil and gas industry can still actually get quite messy. When gas or other mined fluids flow from a well uncontrollably, this is called a blowout. When this happens oil can shoot up to 200 feet in the air. This is primarily caused by a pressure control system failure.
2. Bottom Hole Assembly
Ever wonder what connects the bit from a drill to the drill pipe at a site? Well, now you know! The bottom hole assembly is an important piece of a drilling rig that extends from the bit of the drill to the pipe itself. These assemblies come in numerous variations which are selected based on the drill site’s needs.
3. Doglegs
A well for drilling is meant to be a steady, straight location. However, sometimes when a well is created there can be crooked sections that pop up. While it doesn’t impact how well we can drill from the site, it does give the section this special name.
4. Chainhand
Have you ever wondered what a drill worker who knows their way around the entire rig is called? Wonder no more, and allow us to introduce you to what we call the “chainhand.” This worker is someone with a wide range of experience across a rig. They are essential to the functionality of a site and are able to help out offshore and onshore managers where needed.
5. Pig
Although the term “pig” isn’t one that is widely used as a compliment in most situations, a pig is actually an extremely important device that is used at every drill site. Oil and water being pumped through a well will eventually create some messy build-up. A pig is a tool that we have that is a cleaning device for clearing out the pipes. One could say it literally has its snout in the ground!
Cut Past the Jargon with the Help of Pro-Gas, LLC
There is so much more terminology beyond these five favorites we’ve provided. If you have any questions about a term on the job, reach out to us, we are here to be the industry’s number one local source for site products and relative information! We are eager to help you make your facility or site a more effective environment with our leading products and services. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our current product lines.
