Reliable Tools Need a Reliable Team Behind Them: DSI PBL

Q: How does DSI PBL tailor its services to meet the needs of heavy oil extraction?

A: Our services can successfully address the challenges associated with heavy oil extraction in Mexico. PBL tools are essential in almost every well, particularly in exploratory drilling. Heavy oil often leads to circulation issues, and our tools allow us to continue drilling even when these problems arise. This significantly reduces downtime and mitigates risks. These tools are widely adopted in the Mexican market due to their effectiveness. We also offer BICO motors, which are specifically designed for high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. Developed by a company within the Schoeller-Bleckmann group, these motors are crucial for drilling in challenging fields. 

We also have strategic partnerships, which provides a tool for managing the depthness of the cut of the drill bit. This tool improves the rate of penetration by mitigating stick-slip and managing torsional and axial vibrations. It allows operators to drill faster and safer while protecting their equipment.

Q: Given DSI PBL's extensive global presence, why is the Mexican market particularly significant for the company?

A: Mexico is an extremely important market for us. We have four international facilities located in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Mexico. Despite being active in over 55 countries, we chose to establish facilities in only these four locations. A few years ago, we recognized the critical role Mexico plays, particularly in drilling complex and challenging wells. As a solutions provider, we understood that bringing the right solutions to this market was essential. By having a dedicated facility in the country, we can ensure that we are providing the best possible solutions and support to meet the unique needs of the Mexican market.

Q: How will DSI PBL contribute to Mexico’s incipient deepwater exploration endeavors?

A: We have a proven track record of supporting major deepwater campaigns, including Shell's deepwater projects. The reliability of our tools ensures that operators can trust us, whether they are drilling in Mexico, Brazil, Mauritania, or elsewhere. Our extensive experience in operations is demonstrated by our collaborations with all major companies operating in Mexico's deepwaters, including PEMEX and the main IOCs operating in Mexico.

Q: What challenges have you encountered in marketing and gaining acceptance for your technology?

A: We have faced minimal resistance to the PBL tool, as it is well-known and highly reliable globally. Our extensive international experience has been advantageous, and our excellent local team in Mexico has been instrumental. Our facility in Villahermosa, Tabasco, also allows us to stock and assemble tools locally, which builds trust with our customers and ensures prompt service and availability.

While the tools themselves are reliable, the team supporting them is equally crucial. We provide a comprehensive service package, ensuring that customers receive the best support when using our tools.

Q: What challenges has DSI PBL encountered in Mexico in recent years, particularly amid market uncertainties?

A: Our trajectory in Mexico has been marked by steady growth and positive evolution. Our success can largely be attributed to our dedicated local team and strategic expansion efforts. Over the past seven to eight years, we have effectively capitalized on opportunities in new fields and diversified our product portfolio with innovative solutions.

Our reputation for reliability has been instrumental. Equally important is our deep understanding of customer needs, derived from our team's direct experience in drilling operations. Our approach has not only bolstered customer satisfaction but also facilitated the adoption of new technologies. By consistently putting ourselves in our customers' shoes, we have maintained high operational standards and positioned DSI PBL as a trusted partner in Mexico's energy sector.

Q: What major trends do you observe in the market and what developments do you foresee in the short term?

A: DSI PBL is a global leader in circulating tools. We have witnessed consistent growth in global activity over the past three to four years, a trend anticipated to extend through 2025, indicating a favorable market environment.

In Mexico, we observe a notable pivot toward onshore development by PEMEX. We have proactively aligned our main facility to meet these evolving needs, enabling us to provide rapid solutions, often within hours. We are also well-prepared for potential advances in geothermal energy. Our portfolio includes tools designed for high-temperature environments, along with specialized motors and equipment. 

Q: What strategic initiatives does DSI PBL have planned for the Mexican market in the upcoming years?

A: Our objective is to continue growing our market presence and expand the range of our solutions. We are always identifying specific needs and working to develop products that meet those needs. Our goal is to grow not just in size but also in the variety of tools and solutions we offer.

We are exploring opportunities to introduce new products from within the Schoeller-Bleckmann group that could effectively address challenges in demanding fields. We are considering partnerships with external companies to bring their products to Mexico, further enhancing our solutions portfolio. Our goal is to significantly broaden our market presence and cater to diverse customer needs with innovative products.

DSI PBL is a leader in downhole bypass tool technology with manufacturing facilities in four countries, including Mexico. It operates in 44 countries and serves clients in 66 countries.