Surface Operations in Petroleum Production, II - Practical Field Guide

In this review of Surface Operations in Petroleum Production, II the reviewer finds a detailed, technically focused reference suited for practicing field engineers and operations managers who need direct insight into surface and near-surface oilfield practices. The book's single biggest reason to buy is its comprehensive treatment of real-world surface operations - from gas flow measurement to gravel packing - presented in a way that helps an engineer specify work, analyze problems, and supervise service companies.

Key Features

• Comprehensive surface operations: The volume presents a detailed exposition of common surface practices so engineers can understand the full operational chain.
• Measurement methodologies: Practical coverage of gas flow rate measurement gives readers the theoretical basis and applied methods needed for field evaluation.
• Well intervention techniques: Chapters on cementing, fracturing, and acidizing explain procedures and decision points useful for planning and oversight.
• Sand control practices: Gravel packing is treated with both theoretical and practical notes to help specify suitable completion approaches.
• Field-engineer focus: The book addresses the knowledge gap created by specialization, enabling company staff to supervise service providers effectively.

Who It's For

Surface Operations in Petroleum Production, II is best for experienced field engineers, operations supervisors, and company managers in oil and gas who require a technical reference to evaluate and specify surface and near-well operations. It is particularly useful for those who need to bridge the gap between engineering analysis and service-company execution.

It is less suitable for casual readers or those seeking an introductory textbook for students with no field context; the material assumes some prior technical familiarity and is geared toward practical application rather than elementary explanation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Thorough coverage of surface oilfield operations supports practical problem solving in the field.
• Combines theoretical analysis with applied procedures for measurement and intervention activities.
• Designed to equip company engineers to specify and supervise work performed by specialized service companies.

Cons

• Focused, technical content means it is not an introductory read for those without industry background.

Specifications

Title	Surface Operations in Petroleum Production, II
Author	G. V. Chilingarian
Scope	Surface and near-surface oilfield practices including measurement and intervention
Key topics	Gas flow measurement, cementing, fracturing, acidizing, gravel packing
Audience	Field engineers and company managers
Relation to prior work	Complements and amplifies Volume I (1987)

Our Verdict

For practitioners who need a practical, theory-backed reference to specify operations and supervise service companies, this volume is good value; it consolidates a wide range of surface practices in one technical resource and helps restore operational knowledge typically outsourced to specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this volume cover measurement methods?
Yes - it includes detailed treatment of gas flow rate measurement and the theory and methods used in field practice.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Not really - the book assumes technical familiarity and is aimed at practicing engineers and managers rather than introductory students.

How does it relate to the first volume?
It complements and amplifies Volume I (published 1987) by expanding on practical surface and near-well operations.