Pipeline construction equipment and well drilling equipment are major components for energy exploration and production. Well and pipeline equipment suppliers can be local or international. There are vendors to these suppliers that offer technical support or parts. Pipeline supplies are necessary for both on-shore and off-shore operations.

Local well and pipeline equipment suppliers may be able to offer you quicker delivery and assistance than an international company. Also necessary with oil well drilling equipment is pumping equipment. Many suppliers of big equipment used in drilling have on-site support for the operations. Others will supply operators for their equipment or provide training to your crew. You need to monitor all suppliers for proper safety conditions.

1. Companies rent pipeline and well drilling equipment, but you may prefer to own the equipment you use in your business.

2. Some well and pipeline equipment companies work internationally and offer non-domestic operations for U.S.-based companies working at international sites.

3. Some drilling services can supply oil wells, natural gas exploration or even water well drilling.

4. Companies must handle a variety of complex issues before they can use pipeline or well equipment. You need governmental approval and the coordination of workers, tasks, suppliers, and support teams.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider rigging in well and pipeline equipment needs

Big to minuscule equipment is necessary in energy exploration operations. One of the biggest pieces of oil pipeline equipment needed for drilling is rigging, often called rigs. Constructing pipeline requires getting approval from local and federal authorities.

I recommend: Service King Manufacturing Inc. supplies rigs for oil field explorations and customizes the rig if necessary. Moylan Construction Company, Inc. provides pipeline construction and works cross-country.

Look for multifaceted well equipment suppliers

Pipeline or well drilling operations are highly complicated ventures. There are many pipeline manufacturers and suppliers involved. For instance, drilling requires rigging and drilling systems. Many vendors specialize in one area, which means you would need to use two separate vendors for each task or find a multifaceted company. Pipeline equipment needs servicing and repairs during production.

I recommend: America West Drilling Supply manufactures drilling systems, including hammers, bits and compressors for well equipment. You can rent equipment from it. Pipeline Supply and Service Company, Inc. supplies, services and rents pipeline equipment.

Find suppliers who offer parts for well and pipeline equipment

Well and pipeline equipment are used in conjunction with other machinery or require equipment from other suppliers in order to work. Constructing a pipeline requires special springs. Off-shore work requires using a water maker when drilling underwater.

I recommend: Newcomb Spring specializes in manufacturing springs that you can use in the construction of a pipeline. Specific Equipment Company specializes in water makers that work with off-shore pipeline equipment.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use reputable well and pipeline equipment suppliers. Big projects require that you maintain the maximum safety conditions and equipment in good condition.