Radio Communications in the Petroleum Industry

Communication is the nervous system of industry and it takes many forms. Letters, memos, telephone, telegraph, and personal conferences all play their important part in the control and direction of industrial operations. This is particularly true in petroleum operations where time is often of the essence. A paradox has existed, however, because in field operations, where time usually reaches its greatest value, the ability to communicate has often been severely restricted. The advent or practicable field radio communications has now provided this essential link in the communications chain. Because its application is so widespread, petroleum engineers may frequently be called upon to consult with the radio engineer in the design of a system for an oil company's particular operation. The petroleum engineer with a detailed knowledge of his company's operations, together with a working knowledge of radio can be of material assistance in the system design. The purpose of this paper is to provide the petroleum engineer with a general description of the various types of petroleum radio systems, capabilities, limitations, cost and operating features. Drilling Operations Radio communication was initially used in drilling operations shortly after World War II, when rugged FM (Frequency Modulation) equipment suitable for the severe operating conditions of drilling rig use was developed. The basic drilling rig system consists of a station installed on the drilling rig and a mobile station installed in the toolpusher's car. This provides communication with the rig at all times, enabling the pusher to contact the rig to see what supplies are needed before driving out from town. More important, the rig is able to contact him at any time. Special extension control units can be plugged in so the toolpusher may receive and send messages from his bedside at night using the station in his car. Because the antenna of the drilling rig station is located atop the 120 ft derrick, this basic system, a rig unit and car unit, has an operating radius or approximately 35 miles, and costs approximately $1800. Oil companies or drilling contractors that operate a number or rigs within a 60 to 100 mile radius of a field office frequently install stations at the office. Drilling reports, requests for supplies, orders, etc., can be transmitted directly between the office and rig at any time. If the office is closed at night, a remote control unit is often installed in one of the employee residences to permit handling of emergency night calls. An office station with an operating radius to drilling rigs of 50 to 60 miles costs approximately $1,000. A more powerful station, with high antenna for communication range up to 100 miles, costs $6,000 to $8,000.