Frac Fleet

A specialised ship used to perform maintenance, repair, or remediation work on subsea wells and pipelines. Subcontractors are often mobilised to these vessels for ROV operations, well work, or equipment installation. Scheduling and access are tightly controlled by the operator.

A system that tracks vehicle and equipment location, usage, and performance data in real time. Subcontractors use it to monitor fleet activity, verify hours worked, and support billing accuracy. It also aids compliance with safety and maintenance requirements.

An unmanned, tethered underwater robot used to inspect, survey, or perform work on subsea pipelines, wellheads, and structures — subcontractors providing ROV services typically require specialised operators and vessels, and should account for mobilisation costs and standby rates when bidding these scopes.

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.

Operations performed on an existing well to restore, maintain, or improve production. Includes activities like recompletions, artificial lift installation, and remedial cementing.

The slow, permanent deformation of metal components under sustained stress at elevated temperatures. Subcontractors must watch for creep in pressure vessels, piping, and structural welds during high-heat operations. Missed signs can lead to equipment failure, costly shutdowns, and liability exposure.

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.