casinghead

Casinghead is a term used in the oil and gas industry. It most commonly refers to a device installed at the top of an oil or gas well casing. This device, also known as a casinghead, serves as a structural connection point for the casing strings and allows for the attachment of well control equipment. Essentially, it is the foundation for the "Christmas tree" assembly, which regulates the flow of oil and gas from the well.

The term "casinghead" can also refer to a specific type of natural gas. Casinghead gas is produced from oil wells. It is often dissolved in crude oil under pressure and is released when the oil is brought to the surface and the pressure is reduced. This gas typically contains a higher proportion of heavier hydrocarbons, such as ethane, propane, and butane, compared to gas produced from dedicated gas wells. Historically, casinghead gas was often flared, meaning it was burned off at the wellsite due to lack of infrastructure to capture and process it. However, with advancements in technology and economic viability, much of this gas is now captured and processed for its valuable components.