Drilling rigs specifically configured to drill natural gas wells, requiring crews and equipment rated for high-pressure gas formations. For subcontractors, gas rigs often demand specialised certifications and H2S training. Work volumes typically follow natural gas commodity prices and seasonal heating demand.
Gas Rigs
Related Terms
Vam Connections
IndustryPremium threaded pipe connections used in oil and gas drilling and completion operations. Subcontractors handling, installing, or inspecting VAM connections must follow strict torque specs and handling procedures. Improper makeup can result in costly downhole failures and liability exposure.
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing)
IndustryRefers to the three core building systems subcontractors install and maintain on construction and industrial facility projects. MEP scopes are often divided among specialised trades, each holding separate contracts or working under a prime contractor. Understanding MEP divisions helps subcontractors define their scope, avoid overlap disputes, and price work accurately.
FFS (Fitness-for-service)
IndustryA structured engineering assessment that determines whether ageing or damaged equipment is safe to keep operating. Subcontractors are often hired to collect inspection data, run integrity tests, or execute repairs recommended by FFS evaluations. Understanding FFS scope helps field crews prioritise work orders and meet client fitness thresholds before returning assets to service.
Sole-Source Contract
IndustryA contract awarded directly to one subcontractor without a competitive bidding process. Operators use this when your firm has specialised expertise, proprietary equipment, or an urgent mobilisation is required. It can mean faster contract execution but often comes with tighter scope and pricing scrutiny.
Cook Inlet
IndustryA major oil and gas producing basin in southcentral Alaska with active offshore and onshore operations. Subcontractors working here face remote logistics, tidal extremes, and strict environmental regulations. Mobilisation costs and specialised marine requirements significantly affect bid pricing.
Switchgear
IndustryElectrical equipment used to control, protect, and isolate power systems on job sites. Subcontractors working near switchgear must follow strict lockout/tagout procedures. Installation and maintenance work often requires certified electricians and site-specific safety permits.
Latest Industry News
U.S. Rig Count Up Four to 599; Gas Rigs Climb to Highest Level Since July 2023
Baker Hughes reports the US oil and gas rig count rose to 599 for a third straight weekly gain, with gas rigs at their highest since 2023 as EIA forecasts rising output into 2026.
14 days agoIndustryUS Rig Count Edges Down to 562 for Week Ending June 12
The US rig count slipped by one to 562 for the week ending June 12, with mixed movement across basins and gas rigs falling to their lowest level since October.
3 months agoIndustryCanadian Rig Counts Climb Above Five-Year Seasonal Highs on Oil and Gas Strength
Canadian active drilling rigs hit 191 as of mid-June 2026, above the prior five-year seasonal high of 170, with oil rigs at 129 and gas rigs at 57, both outpacing every comparable week from 2021 to 2025.
3 months agoIndustryUS rig count rises for first time in month, signaling potential uptick in field services demand
Baker Hughes reports first weekly increase in oil and gas rigs after four weeks of declines, though total count remains 7% below last year.
7 months agoRelated Guides
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.
Industry GuideHow 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.
Industry GuideWhat 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.
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