Abstract: In one aspect, a mud-gas separator vessel defines an internal region in which a slurry is adapted to be collected. The slurry defines a fluid level. A sensor is adapted to measure the fluid level. An electronic controller is in communication with the sensor and is adapted to receive measurement data. A control valve is in communication with the controller and is adapted to control discharge of the slurry. The controller is adapted to automatically control the control valve based on the measurement data and thus actively control the fluid level using the control valve. In another aspect, a method is provided for automatically maintaining the fluid level to prevent vent gas carry under from the separator vessel. In another aspect, a kit is provided for actively controlling the fluid level. In another aspect, a method of retrofitting a mud-gas separator apparatus is provided.

Abstract: According to one aspect, an intelligent sensor system is adapted to monitor at least a first operating parameter of a first vessel during oil and gas exploration and production operations. The system includes a first sensor housing assembly, which includes a first sensor adapted to measure a first physical property associated with the first vessel. The monitored first operating parameter is, or is based on, the first physical property measured by the first sensor. A control unit may be in communication with the first sensor. The control unit may be adapted to be in communication with an electronic drilling recorder (EDR). According to another aspect, a system is located at a drilling rig site, and includes first and second sensor housing assemblies connected to first and second vessels, respectively. According to yet another aspect, an intelligent sensor system is adapted to monitor an operating parameter of a gas vent line.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a digital display unit includes a microcontroller to process digital information received from one or more sensors, a display, and a switch in electrical communication with the microcontroller so that the microcontroller displays an output on the display that is specific to a type of sensor. The type of sensor may be selected from a position sensor, a pressure sensor, and a stroke counter. The digital display unit may be part of a choke control panel. The microcontroller and the display may be disposed in an enclosure, and an electrical power source may be disposed in the enclosure to supply electrical power to the microcontroller and the one or more sensors. A digital hydraulic choke position sensor assembly and a digital pressure sensor assembly are also described, one or both of which may be used in a system for drilling an oil or gas well.

Abstract: According to one aspect, an apparatus includes a separator vessel adapted to separate solid and liquid materials from gas materials; a flame arrestor in fluid communication with the separator vessel and through which the gas materials are adapted to flow; and a flare stack adapted to burn off the gas materials. The flare stack includes a vent pipe and an igniter. In another aspect, a system at a wellsite includes one or more separators adapted to be in fluid communication with a wellbore; one or more vent gas lines in fluid communication with the one or more separators; and an integrated vent gas separator and flare stack. In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more separators comprise at least one of a mud-gas separator and a shale-gas separator. In yet another aspect, a kit has first and second configurations. In still yet another aspect, a method is provided.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a digital display unit includes a microcontroller to process digital information received from one or more sensors, a display, and a switch in electrical communication with the microcontroller so that the microcontroller displays an output on the display that is specific to a type of sensor. The type of sensor may be selected from a position sensor, a pressure sensor, and a stroke counter. The digital display unit may be part of a choke control panel. The microcontroller and the display may be disposed in an enclosure, and an electrical power source may be disposed in the enclosure to supply electrical power to the microcontroller and the one or more sensors. A digital hydraulic choke position sensor assembly and a digital pressure sensor assembly are also described, one or both of which may be used in a system for drilling an oil or gas well.