The newly patented system incorporates digital signal processing (DSP) software and acquisition hardware.
The breadth and depth of potential application of this technology is simply staggering. Currently, the most widely accepted subsurface exploration technique is 3-D seismic which surveys subterranean structure, allowing geologists to identify areas that display structure of a type that has traditionally been indicative of potential hydrocarbon deposits. 3-D seismic DOES NOT detect the hydrocarbon deposits, only structures that may or may not contain hydrocarbons. Drilling test holes is still required to accurately gauge the presence of commercial quantities of hydrocarbons.
The biggest problem with seismic, however, lies in the interpretation of the data. This type of survey sends shockwaves through the earth, either from huge mechanized "thumpers" that pound the ground, or from explosive charges placed in the earth. The vibrations that result pass through different densities of rock and can show desirable structure where none exists.
Interpretation of the data gathered can require weeks of heavy computer-driven calculations-even then, the interpretation is largely subject to the skill and luck of the operator conducting the survey! Dry holes can and do still occur, even with the best 3-D seismic operators. Overall, 3-D seismic is an expensive, time consuming, labor intensive process.
Amalgamated's Electrotelluric®
survey
addresses all of these problems. The survey equipment can be carried and operated by one
man. The testing itself takes approximately fifteen minutes per location. There is no
disturbing pounding of the earth. Interpretation is not part of the process-the survey
accurately discloses hydrocarbon deposits while still on the site. Varying densities of
the earth do not affect the survey, since the device measures not vibrations but natural,
passive, extremely-low-frequency electromagnetic waves that pass through the earth.
Off-premise number crunching is not necessary. Finally, the Electrotelluric® survey is
environmentally friendly. There is no disruption from this test except the footprints of
one man.
We can help eliminate the greatest expense of the oil and gas industry: the drilling of
dry holes.