Explore a Fracking Operation – Virtually

Modern oil and gas extraction no longer involves just a well, pump, and tank. The process can be so overwhelmingly complex that in lieu of taking a tour in person, it helps to explore each stage through photos. On this page you will find a virtual guide to the process of unconventional oil and gas extraction, as shown through the eyes of our Community Liaison, Bill Hughes. Eventually we will add a section on frac sand mining and transport, as well as other ancillary sectors.

Scroll down this page to explore the 14 key processes by section. Use the right & left arrows in each section to advance the images.

  1. Introduction
  2. Site Prep
  3. Drilling overview
  4. Well Casing & Cementing
  5. Completions & Hydraulic Fracturing
  6. Storage & Impoundments
  7. Hydraulic Fracturing Pumps & Mixers
  1. Sand Cans, Kings, & Castles
  2. Fracturing Chemicals, Trucks, & Totes
  3. After Production: Flaring, Well Heads, Storage Tanks
  4. Production Separators
  5. Multipurpose Equipment
  6. Pipelines & Compressors
  7. Waste Disposal

1. Introduction

2. Site Prep

3. Drilling Overview

4. Well Casing & Cementing

5. Completions & Hydraulic Fracturing

6. Storage & Impoundments

7. Hydraulic Fracturing Pumps & Mixers

8. Sand Cans, Kings, & Castles

9. Fracturing Chemicals, Trucks, & Totes

10. After Production: Flaring, Well Heads, Storage Tanks

11. Production Separators

12. Multipurpose Equipment

13. Pipelines & Compressors

14. Waste Disposal