AI and machine learning (ML) are used as a tool in the oilfield to optimize hydrocarbon output and predict failures before they happen. But the industry still has some kinks to work out.
Engineers still have to make adjustments through trial and error to find the sweet spot between technology and human intervention, industry experts said at the Society of Professional Engineers’ (SPE) Artificial Lift Conference and Exhibition on Aug 20.
Advanced data analytics provide the necessary information to design artificial lift systems. But the complex data also shows the industry is far from being completely hands-off, Courtney Richardson, an engineer at Occidental Petroleum, said at the conference.