18 Jun 2008 07:00
ViaLogy partners with Texas exploration group Atascosa to analyse onshore oil fields
Pasadena, 18 June: ViaLogy PLC (LSE:VIY), a leading innovator of real-time network-centric signal processing platforms, announces that it has entered into an agreement with a Texas-based oil and gas exploration and production company, Atascosa Exploration LLC, of San Antonio, to use ViaLogy's unique technology, QuantumRD™, to analyse seismic data for more accurate definition of the extent and density of underground oil reservoirs prior to the commencement of drilling. The data analysis on three prospective Texas-based well sites will begin immediately. Complete results will be delivered by ViaLogy to Atascosa within three weeks, and exploratory drilling to prove the technology will commence soon afterwards.
The problems of predicting oil traps from coarse seismic data analysis have plagued the oil and gas industry for decades. Pinpoint accuracy is essential. Predictions that are just a few feet out can waste millions of dollars.
QuantumRD applies ViaLogy's patented and proven Quantum Resonance Interferometry (QRI™) technology to analyse coarse 2D and 3D seismic signals and extract more detailed and accurate information than has hitherto been possible. For the first three pilot wells ViaLogy and Atascosa have reached a non-operating interest participation arrangement, which is based on production in excess of their oil trap estimates prior to the QuantumRD analysis. Assuming that the analysis proves successful the two companies have agreed to form a joint venture company or other business arrangement for the commercialisation of Quantum RD within the United States.
Atascosa CEO, John D. Mullins, said, "We are delighted that Atascosa can take the lead in bringing ViaLogy's technology to market. A successful pilot should result in the widespread use of QuantumRD throughout the industry."
ViaLogy CEO, Robert W. Dean, said, "QuantumRD should increase the accuracy of existing and future seismic petroleum data reduce false positives about where to drill, and have a significant impact on the oil exploration industry. It should also offer ViaLogy opportunity to expand its sales in an adjacent market. Atascosa is the ideal partner for us."
Mr. Dean pointed out that, if the pilot analysis proves successful, the potential for QuantumRD™ is extensive. According to Energy Information Administration (EIA)'s 2006 Annual Report, US had over 21 billion barrels of proven oil reserves. Most of the newer discoveries are in smaller fields. However, the number of newer oilfield discoveries has declined from 1400 in 2001 to 30 by 2006. Just over 40 new reservoirs were discovered in known US fields in 2006 based on EIA released numbers.
"Due to the high cost of oil today, producers can now afford to bring on line reserves that were previously passed over because of production rate or quantity or quality of reservoir. QuantumRD shines in this environment because it allows a clear definition of reservoir size and shape. Based on EIA released data, wells in the US are now averaging over 5700 feet in depth. As the cost to drill wells between 5,000 and 12,000 feet is now approximately $1.5 million to $4 million dollars, making an accurate prediction of reservoir characteristics is even more of an economic necessity. ViaLogy's preferred business model is an interpretation fee and overriding royalty interest (ORRI). Our ability to accurately predict reservoir size and quality should become a required part of the search for hydrocarbons here and abroad."
For Further Information please contact
ViaLogy
Robert W Dean, President & CEO - US +1 626-296-6337 (mobile: +1 703-589-3807)
Terry Bond, Chairman - UK & Europe +44 (0) 1235-834734
Atascosa Exploration LLC
John D. Mullins, CEO (+1 210-402-3656).
Nominated Advisor (Seymour Pierce)
Mark Percy +44 (0) 20-7107-8000
PR Consultants - Redleaf Communications
Samantha Robbins / Anna Dunkin +44 (0) 20-7822-0200
About ViaLogy: Network Centric Signal Processing.
ViaLogy is a leading innovator of network-centric, real-time signal processing platforms for sensor applications. ViaLogy is currently deploying and designing computational systems, powered by its patented technologies, for applications in life sciences, public safety and security, surveillance, defense and geoseismology. Vialogy focuses on market driven problems where automation, timeliness, quality and reliability of information processing are essential. ViaLogy's core competency incorporates rapidly and accurately detecting weak signals buried in high noise background and clutter. This technology can be employed to solve problems involving sensor integration and information overload challenges involving video, telephony and control sensors, as well as for enhancement of numerous signal processing applications. For more information, visit our website at www.vialogy.com.
Except for statements of historical fact, the information presented herein constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied.