Chemical engineers work with geologists in finding petroleum.
Engineers involved in the discovery of petroleum, known as petroleum engineers, are responsible for developing the most efficient means of identifying the location of the oil and then the best method of extracting. This requires thorough knowledge of petroleum's chemical properties.
Function
Petroleum engineers work with geologists to identify subsurface deposits of oil. While a geologist examines geological data to best estimate where the petroleum is located, the engineer works off the geologist's conclusions to design the structures necessary to drill into these areas.
Features
In the initial stages of drilling, petroleum engineers oversee a series of test wells, used to test for the presence of petroleum. He will then analyze the results of these wells, advising his employers if they indicate evidence of a deposit that can be profitably extracted.
Types
A petroleum exploration project will generally include a variety of engineers, each concentrating on a specific aspect of the work. While an engineer experienced in mechanics and structural engineering generally designs rigs, derricks and pumps, chemical engineers advise them on the behavior of crude oil under various conditions.
Tags: engineers work, engineers work with, petroleum engineers, with geologists, work with, work with geologists
