Cambridge technology is helping US oilmen tap into a potentially massive resource in complex terrain in the Utah desert. ARKeX, a Cambridge-based world leader in geophysical remote sensing, has just completed a hi-tech  survey of the geologically challenging Utah Hingeline.

The Utah Hingeline, part of the North American thrust belt, is a complex trend that begins northeast of Salt Lake City and runs southwest across the state. There has been a lot of interest in this highly prospective area following Wolverine’s significant discovery of the Covenant Field in 2003, which is expected to produce 70 million barrels of oil.

ARKeX’s BlueQube survey technology could prove crucial in current and future prospecting in the territory. A data and interpretation report from the company have highlighted how airborne gradiometry can be used as a blueprint for exploration along the thrust and fold belt.

Conventional seismic exploration in the Hingeline has been difficult because of the tough terrain and restricted access. The BlueQube survey was able to overcome many of these challenges while still delivering a high resolution result.

BlueQube is a powerful imaging tool that gives an accurate picture of subsurface geology. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, BlueQube’s advanced gravity gradiometry technology provides a high resolution geological representation that allows companies to image structure quickly, easily and in a range of challenging geologies.

“The Hingeline is an area ideally suited to BlueQube,” said Phill Houghton, ARKeX VP of sales. “Because of the complex geology, seismic doesn’t reveal all the answers, but when combined with BlueQube, a clearer picture can be obtained that can be used to reduce the risk of exploration along the trend.

“We are planning additional surveys along the Hingeline, also on a non-exclusive basis. We feel many clients will be able to benefit from the enhanced information BlueQube can deliver.”

The initial 150-square mile BlueQube survey is Phase 1 of ARKeX’s Utah Hingeline exploration programme, for which a full interpretation report has been completed and is available. Phase 2 (300 square miles) has also been acquired, and data is currently being processed.

In addition to the first two phases, an additional 750 square miles is scheduled to be flown this summer. The multi-client survey was acquired in conjunction with JEBCO Seismic LP.

ARKeX provides geophysical surveys for the oil, gas and mineral exploration industry, using BlueQube. The gravity gradiometry inherent in the technology measures minute variations in the earth’s gravitational field to help pinpoint – from an airplane or ship – oil, gas and mineral deposits buried deep underground.
ARKeX is now so in demand that it has expanded internationally; it has a base in the oil capital of Houston and global operational capabilities.