Assuming no mathematical or chemistry knowledge, this book introduces complete beginners to the field of petroleum engineering. Written in a straightforward style, the author takes a practical approach to the subject avoiding complex mathematics to achieve a text that is robust without being intimidating. Covering traditional petroleum engineering topics, readers of this book will learn about the formation and characteristics of petroleum reservoirs, the chemical properties of petroleum, the processes involved in the exploitation of reservoirs, post-extraction processing, industrial safety, and the long-term outlook for the oil and gas production. The descriptions and discussions are informed by considering the production histories of several fields including the Ekofisk field in the North Sea, the Wyburn Field in Canada, the Manifa Field in Saudi Arabia and the Wilmington Field off the Californian Coast. The factors leading up to the well blowouts on board the Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico and in the Mantara Field in the Timor Sea are also examined. With a glossary to explain key words and concepts, this book is a perfect introduction for newcomers to a petroleum engineering course, as well as non-specialists in industry. Professor David Shallcross is one of the foremost practitioners in chemical engineering education worldwide. Readers of this book will find his previous book, Chemical Engineering Explained, a useful companion.

Written for those less comfortable with science and mathematics, this text introduces the major chemical engineering topics for non-chemical engineers. With a focus on the practical rather than the theoretical, the reader will obtain a foundation in chemical engineering that can be applied directly to the workplace. By the end of this book, the user will be aware of the major considerations required to safely and efficiently design and operate a chemical processing facility. Simplified accounts of traditional chemical engineering topics are covered in the first two-thirds of the book, and include: materials and energy balances, heat and mass transport, fluid mechanics, reaction engineering, separation processes, process control and process equipment design. The latter part details modern topics, such as biochemical engineering and sustainable development, plus practical topics of safety and process economics, providing the reader with a complete guide. Case studies are included throughout, building a real-world connection. These case studies form a common thread throughout the book, motivating the reader and offering enhanced understanding. Further reading directs those wishing for a deeper appreciation of certain topics. This book is ideal for professionals working with chemical engineers, and decision makers in chemical engineering industries. It will also be suitable for chemical engineering courses where a simplified introductory text is desired.