CPF (Central Processing Facility)

Structures used to drill for oil and gas, either onshore or offshore. For subcontractors, they are primary worksites where specialised services like maintenance, inspection, and equipment supply are contracted. Mobilisation requirements, safety certifications, and site access protocols vary significantly between rig types.

A tie-in is the physical connection of new pipeline or equipment to an existing operational system. For subcontractors, tie-in work often requires strict scheduling around shutdowns and may involve additional safety and permitting requirements. Scope changes during tie-ins can affect billing, so clear change-order terms are essential.

A formal business arrangement where two or more companies partner to pursue a specific project or contract, which can affect subcontractors by changing who issues purchase orders, approves invoices, or holds liability on site. Field service companies should confirm early which JV partner is the contracting entity to avoid payment delays or scope disputes.

A temporary halt to oil or gas production at a well or facility, ordered by the operator. For subcontractors, this often means suspended work orders and delayed revenue until operations resume. Standby rates and demobilisation terms in your contract become critical during a shut-in.

A centralised facility or region where hydrogen is produced, stored, and distributed at scale. For subcontractors, these projects generate long-term work in pipefitting, instrumentation, and equipment installation. Expect strict safety certifications and specialised trade requirements on site.

A facility where oil, gas, or LNG is transferred from pipelines or storage for shipment to buyers. Subcontractors are often mobilised here for maintenance, inspection, and commissioning work. Security clearances and site-specific safety certifications are typically required.

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.