Offshore oil and gas technology assessment

In recent years offshore drilling and production technology has evolved in response to the challenges of deep waters and Arctic conditions. In this paper we discuss the development of offshore drilling rigs, platforms, subsea completion systems, pipelines, and tanker loading facilities. We conclude that current technologies modified to meet site-specific requirements are capable of drilling and producing oil and gas in up to 6,000 to 8,000 feet of water and in the ice conditions encountered along the shallow waters of Arctic seas. Oil spill control and containment technology has also kept pace with the challenges of new environments. The important milestones in offshore technology are reviewed and future directions explored.