Tetra Tech provided a full range of quality control, quality assurance and audit services during this major high-production, high-fold 3D desert seismic survey in a remote region of Abu Dhabi.
Challenge
This was a detailed 3D study covering a variety of desert terrains including sand dunes and subkhat (salt) strip. There was also the added challenge of a wilderness reserve and a military firing range.
Summer-time temperatures regularly exceeded the mid-40s °C so management of heat-related stress was essential for all field workers.
The aim was to acquire a high quality full azimuth dataset at a reasonable cost to merge with previously acquired 3D data in adjacent areas.
Solution
The programme used modern high production techniques to acquire the seismic data. This included the use of up to 14 seismic vibrators operating independently in “slip sweep” mode in order to maximise production. In a subsequent phase of the programme the crew started night-time operations to further increase production rates.
Benefits
- 500,000 source points
- 13,400 live channels in template
- 12km² receiver template
- 833m² full-fold area
- 0 LTIs or major HSE incidents
At a glance
Client
Al Yasat Petroleum Operating Company
Completion date
2018 August
Location
Area1, Abu Dhabi
Services
Ad hoc UXO / ERW advice, geodetic supervision, HSE supervision, in-field processing supervision, seismic QC supervision, technical audit
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The project featured in this article was undertaken by RPS, A Tetra Tech Company and originally published on RPSgroup.com. In March 2026 RPS rebranded to Tetra Tech.
