The development of offshore oil and gas fields requires robust and reliable information technology (IT) and communication networks between onshore bases, and remote offshore facilities and infrastructure.
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Oil and gas IT services are therefore of vital importance to the ongoing success of organisations within the offshore sector.
Oilfield developers mostly rely on state-of-the-art satellite communication networks, fibre-optic and microwave networks, and cellular services to facilitate offshore navigation and communication.
Finding top suppliers of oil and gas communications and IT equipment providers
Our Offshore Technology team has researched and listed some of the leading suppliers of connectivity and communications solutions for the offshore sector.
This information has been compiled based on the team’s industry intel, sector insights and decades-long experience in the sector.
Our extensive list includes suppliers of offshore navigation solutions such as document control systems, digital health, safety and environment (HSE) solutions, underwater wireless modems, and fibre-optic communication systems.
Also included is information relating to asset lifecycle management software, energy simulation modelling software, logistics software, and augmented reality solutions.
Within the professionally written download document there is a wide range of invaluable industry information.
This rigorously researched content will be of particular interest and value to offshore communications engineers and specialists, technical communication coordinators and managers, offshore radio operators, and fibre communication specialists.
The download also contains some highly detailed information on the suppliers and their product lines, alongside contact details for procurement teams, should they be needed.
Industry-leading offshore navigation and oil and gas communications solutions
The offshore sector uses satellite communication networks to transmit data over long distances.
The communication networks typically include a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) at the offshore site, a satellite connection, and a teleport antenna at the onshore base.
Cellular and microwave networks, along with fibre-optic communication networks are used for point-to-point communication, data transfer, navigation and monitoring within the field between various components such as platforms, subsea trees, manifolds, and other equipment.
All such communication networks and solutions should be able to withstand the extreme temperatures and pressures at offshore sites.
They should also be equipped with firewall and virus protection as standard.
Some of the current leading communication and navigation solutions used in the offshore sector include, without necessarily being limited to:
- VSAT systems
- Keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) extenders
- Switches, media converters and IP matrix solutions
- Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems
- Radio repeaters and testers
- Communication simulators
- Digital muster stations
- Underwater wireless modems, and
- Offshore navigation equipment such as global positioning systems, monitors, and sensors
Document management systems in oil and gas IT services
Document management systems help to easily manage, store and access the necessary documents related to regulations, policies, procedures and production reports.
Document management systems also offer easy access to project planning and development documents and help to analyse production data and support asset life cycle management.
Uses of modelling software
Modelling software including energy simulation modelling software is used for:
- Reservoir modelling and simulation
- 3D graphical models of offshore oil and gas fields
- Offshore platforms and infrastructure design, and
- Subsea simulation
FAQs
What IT services are critical for offshore oil and gas operations?
IT services crucial for offshore operations include satellite communication networks, fibre-optic solutions, and cellular systems.
These services provide reliable data transfer between onshore bases and offshore facilities, ensuring continuous connectivity for navigation, monitoring, and operational efficiency.
How do document management systems benefit offshore IT?
Document management systems streamline the storage, retrieval, and sharing of critical offshore documentation, including regulations, safety protocols, and operational reports, enhancing project management and regulatory compliance.
What role does modelling software play in offshore operations?
Modelling software supports reservoir simulation, offshore infrastructure design, and field monitoring.
It helps predict production performance and improve decision-making.
How does cybersecurity protect offshore IT networks?
Offshore IT networks face constant cyber threats.
Implementing robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls and encryption, ensures that sensitive data remains secure, protecting vital communication and operational systems.
What communication systems are used for offshore operations?
Offshore communication relies on VSAT systems, radio repeaters, and fibre-optic networks to maintain point-to-point communication between rigs, subsea structures, and onshore facilities.
These systems must withstand harsh offshore conditions to ensure continuous data flow.