Steel Products

U.S. Rig Count Increases by 4 and Canada Increases by 20

January 28, 2013

According to Baker Hughes data from January 25th, 2013, the U.S rig count for this week is 1,753 rigs exploring for or developing oil or natural gas. This number represents an increase of 4 rigs from last week. Compared to last year the 1,753 count is a decrease of 255 rigs. Canadian rigs increased by 20 to 621 rigs this week, a decrease of 61 rigs from a year ago. International rigs decreased by 14 to 1,253 rigs last month, an increase of 73 rigs from a year ago.

About the Rotary Rig Count

A rotary rig is one that rotates the drill pipe from the surface to either drill a new well or sidetracking an existing one. They are drilled to explore for, develop and produce oil or natural gas. The Baker Hughes Rotary Rig count includes only those rigs that are significant consumers of oilfield services and supplies.

The Baker Hughes North American Rotary Rig Count is a weekly census of the number of drilling rigs actively exploring for or developing oil or natural gas in the United States and Canada. Rigs considered active must be on location and drilling. They are considered active from the time they break ground until the time they reach their target depth.

The Baker Hughes International Rotary Rig Count is a monthly census of active drilling rigs exploring for or developing oil or natural gas outside of the United States and Canada. International rigs considered active must be drilling at least 15 days during the month. The Baker Hughes International Rotary Rig Count does not include rigs drilling in Russia or onshore China.