PDI's Frequently Asked Questions...

How does PDI gather, process, examine, and evaluate samples?
What kind of samples does PDI need for their examination?
What is the best way to get samples to PDI?
What is the typical turnaround time for sample exam and reporting?
Who do I contact at PDI with special urgent service requests?
Are there other levels of service?
Who do I contact at PDI with data requests?
Who is looking after my well?
What kind of interim reports can I expect on drilling wells and when?
What if my question is not answered here?

How does PDI gather, process, examine, and evaluate samples?

PDI is working on a dedicated page to effectively answer this question. Please check back for updates.

What kind of samples does PDI need for their examination?

PDI examines ditch cuttings usually collected by a mug logging service provider. PDI's preferred sample catching procedures can be downloaded here. PDI will also examine previously prepared samples. However, PDI prefers to play an intricate role in sampe prep, so that sample quality does not come into question during examination.

What is the best way to get samples to PDI?

PDI provides a sample pickup service daily. This eliminates lost or misdirected samples and assures efficient delivery. Rig personnel or a shore dispatcher can call our lab managers, Rhonda Roederer or Renee Hudson at (504) 210-7353, in advance to request a sample pickup at dock or shorebase

What is the typical turnaround time for sample exam and reporting?

PDI examines samples from 15-35 active wells at any given time. Priorities are set up each morning with specific requests for urgent results handled first. We can typically provide same day information for up to a 500’ sample interval received that morning, if we are notified in advance.

Who do I contact at PDI with special urgent service requests?

E-mail or call any of the paleontological/biostratigraphic staff with such requests. We will give an estimated turnaround time based upon your request and the current work load at hand.

Are there other levels of service?

Yes, Priority Service is available for the most efficient information turnaround while maintaining the highest level of examination accuracy. Samples are prepared on the rig and sent in daily, already processed for immediate office microscope examination. Office examination is the optimal setting for accuracy where type slides, publications and well control are available and immediate interaction with the entire PDI biostratigraphic team for consultation. Wellsite Service for nannofossil and foram examination is also available with a single specialist or a team of specialists assigned for real-time examination results.

Who do I contact at PDI with data requests?

Contact Art Waterman, Ann Hare (Office and Data Manager), or Donna Lacoste (Clerical Manager)

Who is looking after my well?

We take a team approach at PDI. We work together in the same office and the specialist examining nannos may be in the next office to the specialist working with the forams. We communicate and discuss our findings constantly among the team, and maintain consistency in interpretation and nomenclature. So the answer is, we are all looking after your well and contacting any of the paleontological staff will get the answers you need.

What kind of interim reports can I expect on drilling wells and when?

PDI prefers to report findings when all samples have been examined. Spot-examinations for quick results can sometimes be inaccurate and misleading, and we often have to revise results upon the complete examination. We will, however, report findings on the bottommost interval or any section of interest upon request, fully recognizing that these results might change. Interim reports consist of a biostratigraphic summary of marker species encountered, their quality and consistency along with comments on sample quality, stratigraphic interpretation and possible correlations. Interim abundance graphs and raw data files are available upon request. These are typically issued with the final reports in both paper and digital formats.

What if my question is not answered here?

If our website cannot answer your question, we would like to hear about it! We invite you to our Contact page and send us your question. We would be happy to answer it!

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