PETROLEUM NEWS

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 318, 18 February 1910, Page 4

PETROLEUM NEWS

BLOW-OPT AT XO. 3 BORE. TREMENDOUS RUSH OF GAS. At about !>.30 yesterday morning a blow-out occurred at the Taranaki Petroleum Co.'s Xo. 3 bore. Drilling was being proceeded with, and the drill had reached a depth of 2070 feet, when a gag vein was pierced. Immediately there was a big blow-out, the workmen being drenched with salt water and oil, some of this being thrown very high in the air and covering the ground n'l round the derrick. Strenuous efforts were made, under considerable dilliculties, until the bulk of the oil was got into the tanks, and the well got under control. Oil continued to How at intervals right through the day, and was conducted into the tank direct. The roar of the gas could be heard for some distance away. It ie probably the same gas vein that was tapped m No. 2 bore at 2000 feet or thereabouts. Of course, drilling has had to •be suspended until the gas pressure eases off, and advantage is being tak-Mi of the spell to replace the bed of the engine. When the pressure of gas cases off, boring will be resumed. It is expected that an oil seam will be penetrated shortly, the experience of the drilling here beincr that after a big g'ls escape the tools have soon found an oil seam. At Xo. 2 bore, drilling is proceeding steadily. The depth of this well is approximately 2710 feet. Yesterday afternoon samples of the oil from Xo. 2 bore were despatched to the commander of 11.M.5. Fegaiuis. The directors have invited the Hon. the Premier and the of Railways to visit the bore with a view of acquainting themselves at first hand 1 with the work of development that is being carried on here.