A well that is drilled vertically to a certain depth then curved to run horizontally through a target formation, requiring subcontractors to mobilise specialised equipment and crews for extended-reach drilling, completions, and stimulation work that typically involves more complex logistics and longer on-site durations than conventional vertical wells.
Horizontal Well
Related Terms
Cryogenic Processing
IndustryA method of separating natural gas into valuable components by cooling it to extremely low temperatures. Subcontractors may be required to hold specialised certifications and use cryogenic-rated equipment on these sites. Strict handling protocols apply, as cryogenic materials pose serious safety risks to field crews.
Concrete Ties
IndustryHeavy precast concrete blocks or collars used to anchor pipelines and prevent buoyancy in wet or unstable ground. Subcontractors install them during pipeline construction, often requiring specialised lifting equipment and crews. Scope and quantity directly affect labour hours and equipment costs in your bid.
Sand Management
IndustryThe process of controlling, monitoring, and removing sand produced alongside oil and gas to protect wellbore equipment and surface facilities. Subcontractors may be hired to install sand screens, separators, or erosion monitoring systems. Poor sand management accelerates equipment wear and increases maintenance callouts.
Transfer Point
IndustryThe designated location where responsibility for equipment, materials, or personnel shifts from one party to another. For subcontractors, this determines when liability and custody officially change hands. It is critical for documenting handoffs and avoiding billing disputes.
Infill Drilling
IndustryDrilling new wells between existing producers to recover bypassed reserves in a developed field. For subcontractors, it means shorter mobilisation windows and back-to-back well programmes. Expect high crew utilisation but tight scheduling with little downtime between jobs.
Natural Hydrogen
IndustryHydrogen gas that occurs naturally underground, now being explored as a clean energy source. Subcontractors may encounter exploration and drilling projects targeting natural hydrogen deposits. It is an emerging sector creating new field service opportunities across Canada.
Latest Industry News
Permian Judge Rules Old Lease Agreements Control Horizontal Wells Drilled Across Legacy Boundaries
A Midland court ruling that legacy oilfield contracts govern horizontal wells could reshape how subcontractors interpret surface access rights, easement terms, and contract scope across the Permian Basin.
7 months agoIndustryArrow Exploration Lines Up Horizontal Well and Exploration Drilling After Colombia Discovery
Arrow Exploration is moving toward horizontal drilling at its Mateguafa field in Colombia after the M-11 well confirmed oil-bearing sands in two Carbonera formations, extending the field to the south and unlocking additional development targets.
7 months agoIndustryEON Kicks Off 92-Well Horizontal Drilling Program in New Mexico
EON Resources subsidiary LH Operating has spudded the first of 92 planned horizontal wells in the Grayburg-Jackson Field in Eddy County, New Mexico, with drilling set to continue into 2027 and beyond.
2 months agoIndustryFluor Eyes 25 Megaprojects Averaging $4.5B Over Next Two Years
Fluor told investors it is pursuing 25 megaprojects averaging $4.5 billion, about $112 billion combined, with power and mining leading. Most are negotiated deals, and client board approval is the main hurdle.
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Industry GuideHow Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It
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