Abandonment

A method of tracking an underground drill head's position by walking the surface above it with a handheld receiver. The receiver picks up a signal from a transmitter housed in the drill head. Subcontractors use this to guide directional boring and confirm depth in real time.

A light liquid hydrocarbon that separates from natural gas during production and processing. Subcontractors handling condensate must follow strict hazmat protocols, as it is highly volatile and flammable. It is often measured and valued separately from crude oil on production sites.

The heaviest category of commercial trucks, rated at over 33,001 lbs gross vehicle weight. Common in oil and gas field work for hauling heavy equipment, frac sand, and pipe. Operators require a Class 1 licence in Canada.

A high-voltage transformer exceeding 100 MVA used in electrical substations and large industrial facilities. Subcontractors are often mobilised for LPT installation, maintenance, or emergency replacement work. These units require specialised rigging, permitting, and certified electrical crews due to their size and criticality.

A control system combining electrical signals and hydraulic power to operate valves, actuators, and process equipment. Subcontractors working on commissioning or maintenance must be qualified to work on both electrical and hydraulic components. Specialised certification and intrinsically safe tools are typically required on-site.

The planned order in which construction tasks must be completed before the next trade can begin work. Subcontractors depend on accurate sequencing to schedule crews and avoid costly downtime. Delays in one phase can push back your mobilisation and affect your invoicing schedule.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.