Research and Development

Startec is a solution focused company. Most of the challenges we face are solved by applying existing technology. Other challenges can only be overcome by inventing new solutions. We excel at both.

Creating New Solutions

Over the years we have worked with numerous energy producers and industry service providers to develop novel solutions for some of their biggest challenges.

Startec Mud Chiller

One of the best examples of our innovation capability is the development of the revolutionary Startec Mud Chiller.

A SAGD Drilling Problem

Nexen Inc., a global energy producer, approached Startec with a drilling problem in a steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) resource play in the Canadian oil sands.

Sloughed in Bore Hole

Heat generated during the drilling process destabilized the oil sand formation. The bitumen took on the consistency of a thick porridge. The heat sloughed in the bore hole. The destabilized formation compromised the effectiveness of downhole sensors used to indicate the depth and direction of the drill bit. Overall well control was impaired.

Familiar with Startec's dual oilfield and refrigeration expertise, Nexen presented us with the problem.

A Revolutionary Solution

Startec engineers devised a revolutionary new drilling mud cooling product that combined a portable, high capacity ammonia refrigeration plant with a spiral heat exchanger.

Patent Pending Invention

This patent pending invention solved the heat issue for Nexen allowing drilling crews to maintain a low subsurface temperature and a stable bore hole.

The Startec Mud Chiller, developed by responding to a client need, is the industry's most effective solution for temperature sensitive drilling locations.

Extreme Sour Gas Compression

A top ten global petroleum producer came to Startec to solve a major technical challenge. The company was experiencing significant performance issues with screw compressors it had acquired from another vendor. The compressors, being used to transport sour gas in the Alberta foothills, were prone to frequent breakdowns. The equipment could not handle the gas composition of 40+% H2S combined with variable quantities of water and condensates.

Exacting Specifications

Startec engineers worked closely with equipment manufacturers and the client's research & specification division to develop a solution.

The research identified the compressor units, lubricants and control systems best suited to extreme sour gas applications. Startec engineers developed stringent specifications for the design, material selection and fabrication of pressure vessels, piping and all other components.

Proven in the Field

The new specifications have been proven in the field. Today, 15 compression packages based on these exacting standards are providing the client with safe, reliable service in the Alberta foothills.

Further details on this breakthrough assignment appear in the Project Gallery.

Contact Startec

Are you facing a major challenge where compression or refrigeration technology could be part of the solution? We look forward to exploring the issues. Your first step is to contact a Startec Oil & Gas Customer Representative at 403.295-5855 or toll free at 1-800-555-9439.