Whether you’re new to the oil and gas industry or a seasoned veteran in the field, you’ve likely encountered the terms “conventional oil” and “unconventional oil.” While these terms are common, their meanings can be a bit elusive. The distinctions lie not in the oil itself but in the extraction methods used to bring it to the surface.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the fundamental differences between conventional and unconventional oil, explore the methods used in each, and discuss how both play critical roles in maximizing production in the oil and gas industry.
When most people think of oil drilling, they picture towering rigs and pumps extracting oil from vast underground reservoirs. This traditional method, which has been the backbone of the oil industry since the late 19th century, taps into large pools of oil trapped in permeable rock formations like sandstone or limestone.
The extraction process for conventional oil is relatively straightforward. Natural pressure within the well forces the oil to the surface, where it can be collected with minimal intervention. In cases where the pressure decreases over time, secondary recovery methods such as water or gas injection can be employed to maintain production.
Despite its long history, the availability of conventional oil is diminishing. Many of the world’s largest and most accessible oil fields have been heavily exploited, leading to a decline in easy-to-reach reserves. This reality has driven the industry to explore alternative methods and resources, giving rise to unconventional oil extraction techniques.
Unconventional oil refers to oil that is not accessible through traditional drilling methods. The key difference lies in the characteristics of the rock formations where the oil is found. Unlike the porous and permeable reservoirs that house conventional oil, unconventional oil is trapped in formations with low permeability, such as shale, tight sands, or tar sands.
The extraction of unconventional oil presents unique challenges. These formations do not allow for easy oil flow, requiring advanced technologies and techniques to access the trapped resources.
Shale Oil Extraction: Shale formations, with their low permeability, require hydraulic fracturing (commonly known as “fracking”) to release the oil. This method involves injecting a mixture of water, sand, and chemicals at high pressure to create fractures in the rock, allowing the oil to flow to the surface.
Oil Sands Mining: In regions like Canada’s Athabasca oil sands, bitumen (a heavy, viscous form of oil) is extracted using surface mining or in-situ techniques. The oil sands are processed to separate the bitumen from the sand and water, after which it is upgraded to synthetic crude oil.
Tight Oil Drilling: Similar to shale oil, tight oil is found in formations with very low permeability. Horizontal drilling and fracking are often used in tandem to maximize recovery from these challenging reservoirs.
Unconventional oil extraction is more resource-intensive, both in terms of energy and cost, compared to conventional methods. The environmental impact is also greater, as techniques like fracking have raised concerns about water usage, chemical contamination, and induced seismic activity.
However, the potential rewards are significant. Unconventional oil has unlocked vast reserves that were previously considered uneconomical, extending the life of existing fields and opening up new opportunities in the oil and gas sector.
There is a common misconception that conventional and unconventional oil extraction methods are in competition. In reality, they often complement each other. As conventional oil fields mature and their production declines, unconventional methods can be employed to extract the remaining resources.
One notable example is the Mississippi Lime play. After decades of conventional drilling, this field saw a resurgence with the application of unconventional techniques, such as horizontal drilling and fracking. This approach not only revitalized production but also demonstrated the effectiveness of combining both methods to maximize oil recovery.
Many companies today recognize the value of integrating conventional and unconventional methods. By doing so, they can optimize production, extend the life of oilfields, and continue to meet global energy demands.
Conventional Reservoirs: Found in highly permeable rocks that allow oil to flow easily to the wellbore.
Unconventional Reservoirs: Located in low-permeability formations where oil is trapped in small pores and requires stimulation to flow.
Conventional Methods: Primarily vertical drilling with secondary recovery techniques like water or gas injection as needed.
Unconventional Methods: Advanced techniques such as horizontal drilling, hydraulic fracturing, and oil sands mining.
Conventional Oil: Generally less costly and environmentally disruptive to extract but limited by declining reserves.
Unconventional Oil: More expensive and resource-intensive, with greater environmental concerns, but provides access to vast new reserves.
The terms “conventional” and “unconventional” oil might suggest a stark difference, but in practice, they represent two sides of the same coin in the oil and gas industry. Understanding the nuances of each method and how they can be leveraged together is crucial for maximizing productivity and ensuring a sustainable energy future.
At Keystone Energy Tools, we understand that success in the oil and gas industry requires a deep understanding of both conventional and unconventional resources. Our commitment to innovation and excellence allows us to provide the tools and expertise needed to optimize extraction processes and maximize your oilfield’s potential.
Whether you’re tapping into traditional reservoirs or exploring the possibilities of unconventional oil, Keystone Energy Tools is your partner in navigating the complexities of the oil and gas landscape. By combining the strengths of both methods, we help you unlock the full potential of your resources, ensuring continued productivity and growth in an ever-evolving industry.
For more insights and industry-leading solutions, visit our website and discover how Keystone Energy Tools can support your oil and gas operations.
By using the latest in 3D modeling for product design and by staying current with the rapid advances in manufacturing technology and quality-assurance standards, Keystone is able to manufacture and produce the most reliable products on the market today. All Keystone Handling Tools are manufactured according to API 8C and API 7K Standards.
