Perforated Core Sample Crush Zone Mapping via CT Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing subterranean formations to predict well production and design perforation tools require splitting rock core samples, which can alter the integrity of the crushed zone, leading to inaccurate assessments of permeability and interactions with explosive charges.
Innovation Solution
A method using computerized tomography (CT) scans to create 3D mappings of perforation tunnels and crush zones before and after removing permeability-impairing material, allowing for intact core sample analysis and comparison to determine the true 3D variable-thickness profile, thereby assessing permeability without splitting the core.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the core sample is split to take caliper measurements, then the two-dimensional thickness of the crushed zone can be measured, but the integrity of the crushed zone is altered and measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses CT scanning to create a digital copy (3D model) of the crushed zone geometry without physically contacting or splitting the core sample. This virtual measurement approach allows accurate determination of crushed zone thickness and shape while preserving the physical integrity of the sample, eliminating the need to split the core for measurements.
2Measurement precision
If the core sample is split for analysis, then permeability can be assessed, but the true 3D profile of the crush zone cannot be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical splitting and physical measurement with a non-contact CT scanning system. The CT scanner uses X-rays to penetrate the core sample and generate detailed 3D images of the crushed zone and perforation tunnel, allowing accurate assessment of permeability and true 3D geometry without mechanical disturbance to the sample structure.
3Measurement precision
If permeability-impairing material is present in the perforation tunnel, then the true permeability of the crush zone cannot be determined, but removing the material alters the sample
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital 3D model through CT scanning that captures the location and extent of permeability-impairing material (liner material and crushed-zone material) within the perforation tunnel. This virtual representation allows researchers to identify and account for the presence of impeding material without physically removing it, thus maintaining sample integrity while achieving accurate permeability determination.
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
This approach provides a more accurate assessment of permeability, enhancing the understanding of the crush zone's impact on pressure-flow relationships, which improves well economics and perforation effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
scanning a perforated core sample having a perforation tunnel containing a permeability-impairing material with a first computerized tomography (CT) scanning apparatus to produce a first 3D model of the perforation tunnel
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of a method for mapping a perforation tunnel and crush zone of a perforated core sample. The method may include scanning a perforated core sample having a perforation tunnel containing a permeability-impairing material with a first computerized tomography (CT) scanning apparatus to produce a first 3D model of the perforation tunnel. The method may further include forming a cleared perforation tunnel by removing at least a portion of the permeability-impairing material from within the perforation tunnel without splitting the core sample at the perforation tunnel, and scanning the perforated core sample having the cleared perforation tunnel with a second computerized tomography (CT) scanning apparatus to produce a second 3D model of the cleared perforation tunnel. The method may compare the first 3D model and the second 3D model to obtain a 3D mapping of the perforation tunnel or a crush zone.