Paper: The Oilfield Gas Engine Automation Extended Service Economics

The end of WWII marked the entrance into a new era in domestic oil production. Full capacity production gave way to curtailment and pro-ration. The necessity for drastic economies resulted in close scrutiny of all costs and practices. The Gas Engine which has long been the "work horse" in the oilfields began to feel the inroads of electrification. Wider availability of electric power and the obvious ease of automating electric motors were compelling reasons that led to wholesale electrification. Although much of the heavy duty engine industry during this same period was preoccupied with expanded markets for engines in other industries, there were a few who remained dedicated to the purpose of providing engines, accessory equipment, and controls that would meet the requirements of the changing economics in domestic oil production.