Multi-variable Cement Sheath Evaluation Workflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the integrity of cement bonds in wellbore casing to subterranean formations rely on indirect measurements from sonic or ultrasonic tools, lacking direct and accurate assessment of cement bond quality and sheath characterization.
Innovation Solution
The use of sonic, ultrasonic, and density tools to provide direct and accurate measurements of cement bond integrity by analyzing cement-casing interface density and annular equivalent density, employing deconvolution and inverse modeling to iteratively refine density calculations and detect potential gaps in the cement bond.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If indirect methods using only sonic or ultrasonic tools are used to evaluate cement bonding, then the evaluation process is simpler, but the measurement precision and accuracy of cement bond quality assessment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data from multiple independent measurement systems (sonic tools, ultrasonic tools, and density tools) into a unified evaluation framework. By merging these different measurement modalities, the system achieves more accurate cement bond quality assessment than any single tool could provide alone, while maintaining a integrated processing approach that manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that includes deconvolution operations and inverse modeling. This intermediary layer transforms raw measurements from multiple tools into refined density values and cement bond characteristics, enabling accurate assessment without requiring direct physical contact with the cement sheath.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurement systems (sonic, ultrasonic, density tools) are integrated for direct measurement, then the measurement precision of cement bond integrity improves, but the device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal evaluation framework that can process data from multiple different tool types (sonic, ultrasonic, density tools) through common deconvolution and inverse modeling operations. This multi-functional approach allows the same processing methodology to handle diverse measurement inputs, reducing the operational complexity despite using multiple measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements an iterative feedback process where density values are calculated through inverse modeling and then used to refine the evaluation of cement bond integrity. The system continuously refines its assessment by feeding back the calculated density information into the evaluation process, improving accuracy through iterative refinement rather than requiring complex real-time coordination of all tools.
3Ease of manufacture
If indirect inference methods are used to determine cement parameters, then the equipment requirements are simpler, but the reliability of cement bond evaluation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical measurement approaches with acoustic and density-based measurement systems combined with computational analysis. Instead of physically sampling or directly measuring cement properties, the system uses wave propagation and density tool measurements combined with deconvolution and inverse modeling to infer cement bond quality, maintaining equipment simplicity while improving reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances the evaluation and characterization of cement sheaths without requiring new tools, providing more accurate detection of defective bonds and preventing fluid migration, thus maintaining hydrocarbon zone integrity.
Implementation Method 1
obtain sonic data of the annular media using a sonic wave emitted by a sonic tool
Implementation Method 2
obtaining ultrasonic data of the annular media using an ultrasonic wave emitted by an ultrasonic tool
Implementation Method 3
obtaining density data of the annular media using a density tool; performing a third inverse modeling operation using the far counts, the near counts, and an energy spectrum to obtain a third density value of the annular media
Data Source
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AI summary
Sonic data, ultrasonic data, and density data of the annulus are obtained using a sonic tool, an ultrasonic tool, and a density tool, respectively, included in a tool string. A first deconvolution operation is performed to obtain an amplitude, a frequency, and a phase of the modified sonic wave. A first inverse modeling operation results in a first density value of the annular media. A second deconvolution operation is performed to obtain an amplitude, a frequency, and a phase of the modified ultrasonic wave. A second inverse modeling operation results in a second density value of the annular media. A third deconvolution operation is performed to obtain far counts, near counts, and an energy spectrum of gamma rays. A third inverse modeling operation results in a third density value of the annular media.