Offshore Drill measures formations at two frequencies.

Press Release Summary:



Operational at up to 175°C, and in flow rates of up to 1200 gpm, Centerfire Systems drills utilize frequencies of 2 and 0.4 MHz with dual transmitter spacings to measure formations at multiple depths as holes are drilled. Measurement while drilling (MWD) directional modules, enable collection of directional drilling information, transmission of directional and logging data to the surface, and storage of data and power for the system.



Original Press Release:



GE Energy Announces Enhanced Resistivity Tool for Downhole Drilling



HOUSTON, TX-April 30, 2007-Combining proven technology with greater operating flexibility for customers, GE Energy announced the availability of its enhanced Centerfire® propagation wave resistivity (PWR) system at the Offshore Technology Conference in Houston, Texas.

Downhole resistivity systems provide formation evaluation data while the hole is being drilled. Resistivity measurements are used to determine the possible existence of oil or gas and, when used in conjunction with gamma ray information, provide insight into the type of formation through which the hole is being drilled. Featuring a reliable, retrievable tool design, the enhanced Centerfire PWR offers users the ability to accurately evaluate formations while minimizing operational risks.

The Centerfire system uses GE Energy's standard measurement while drilling (MWD) directional module, which is mounted above the resistivity collar for easy retrieval and reduction of costly rig downtime. The MWD probe provides directional drilling information, transmits directional and logging data to the surface and acts as a data storage and power hub for the system. Data retrievability helps ensure that valuable formation data can be secured and retrieved even if the drill collar is lost downhole.

Building on GE Energy's high-performance MWD probe, the Centerfire resistivity system can operate at temperatures up to 175; Celsius in water and oil-based drilling fluids and in flow rates up to 1200 gpm.

The ability to investigate the formation at multiple depths ensures superior formation evaluation compared to induction-based methods. The multiple depths of investigation are achieved through the use of two frequencies (2 MHz and 400 kHz) and two sets of transmitter spacings. The Centerfire system uses the same PWR technology used by most of the major companies in the oilfield services industry and integrates it into a system that benefits oilfield service independents. All raw data is saved in the downhole system memory in addition to the MWD probe's memory. The real-time telemetry is rigsite configurable.

"Our enhanced Centerfire product enables oil field service providers to deliver world-class directional and formation evaluation services to their customers, saving time and money through proven technology that delivers better clarity, resolution and accuracy and reduces non-productive time at the rig," said Daniel Heintzelman, president of GE Energy's services business.

The industry leading, probe-based Gamma module complements GE Energy's Centerfire technology. Recognizing that every drilling application is different, this system offers the operator the choice of where the Gamma module is mounted. It can be mounted below the resistivity sub, placing it as close as possible to the drill bit or alternatively, it can be mounted above the resistivity sub in the MWD tool string for easy retrieval in challenging conditions.

The combination of robust sensor packaging and high-temperature electronics has assisted GE Energy's customers in achieving MWD/LWD (logging-while-drilling) drilling records for depth, pressure and temperature. GE Energy has a number of innovative instruments, directional systems, detectors and software that are customizable and designed to withstand extreme environments while providing accurate, reliable measurements for the upstream oil and gas industry.

About GE Energy
GE Energy (www.ge.com/energy) is one of the world's leading suppliers of power generation and energy delivery technologies, with 2006 revenue of $19 billion. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, GE Energy works in all areas of the energy industry including coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear energy; renewable resources such as water, wind, solar and biogas; and other alternative fuels. Numerous GE Energy products are certified under ecomagination, GE's corporate-wide initiative to aggressively bring to market new technologies that will help customers meet pressing environmental challenges.

For more information, contact:Betsy Mauchley GE Energy +1 775 215 1031 betsy.mauchley@ge.com Ken Darling or Gina DeRossiMasto Public Relations +1 518 786 6488kenneth.darling@ge.com

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