Dual Zone NMR Logging Tool for Fluid Characterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current NMR logging tools face challenges in effectively measuring and characterizing fluid distribution and properties in subterranean formations, particularly in capturing accurate data from both external and internal zones of the wellbore, due to limitations in magnetic field generation and fluid sampling capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A dual zone NMR logging system with a tool body containing permanent magnets for generating a static magnetic field and extendable probe modules with RF coils for external and internal measurements, allowing for orthogonal magnetic field configurations and fluid sampling within the tool, enabling comprehensive NMR data collection from both external formation zones and internal fluid samples.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a single NMR measurement zone is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and comprehensiveness of fluid characterization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid characterization accuracyVSAvoiddual zone measurement system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The NMR logging tool is divided into two distinct measurement zones: an internal measurement zone within the tool body for analyzing formation fluid samples, and an external measurement zone outside the tool body for analyzing formation zones. Each zone has its own RF coil and measurement capabilities, allowing simultaneous or sequential measurements of different regions with optimized parameters for each specific measurement target.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If permanent magnets are placed inside the tool body, then the static magnetic field is stable, but the ability to measure external formation zones is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatic magnetic field stabilityVSAvoidexternal and internal measurement capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic field generation system is segmented into internal permanent magnets for stable internal measurements and external magnet assemblies for external formation zone measurements. The permanent magnets are positioned within the tool body to provide a stable reference field for internal fluid sample analysis, while separate external magnets can be extended or activated to provide the necessary magnetic field for external formation measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tool incorporates movable or extendable magnet assemblies that can be dynamically positioned. The external magnets can be extended from the tool body when external formation zone measurements are required, and retracted or deactivated when only internal measurements are needed, allowing the system to adapt its magnetic field configuration based on the measurement requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If fluid sampling is implemented, then internal NMR measurements can be performed, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinternal fluid sample measurementVSAvoidfluid sampling operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fluid sampling system incorporates automated sampling mechanisms that can autonomously collect formation fluid through the wellbore wall into internal sample containers. The system includes automated valve control, sample collection, and sealing mechanisms that reduce manual intervention requirements, allowing the tool to perform self-service fluid sampling operations during logging runs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

The system provides enhanced accuracy in formation and fluid characterization by enabling simultaneous external and internal NMR measurements, improving the understanding of fluid distribution and properties, and allowing for real-time data collection during drilling or wireline operations.

Implementation Method 1

a permanent magnet configured generating a static magnetic field B0

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

a radio frequency coil located within the tool body, wherein the radio frequency coil generates a radio frequency magnetic field B2

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

the probing module includes a probe radio frequency coil that generates a radio frequency magnetic field B1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

NMR logging, a subcategory of electromagnetic logging, measures the induced magnet moment of hydrogen nuclei (protons) contained within the fluid-filled pore space of a formation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNuclear magnetic resonance:

Data Source

PatentUS10739490B2Dual zone nuclear magnetic resonance sensing device for subterranean characterization
Publication Date: 2020.08.11 HALLIBURTON ENERGY SERVICES INC
  • US10739490B2 patent drawing
  • US10739490B2 patent drawing
  • US10739490B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A subterranean characterization and fluid sampling device includes a tool body, a probing module, and a permanent magnet. The tool body includes a fluid testing module configured to retain a fluid sample and an internal radio frequency coil disposed within the tool body and drivable to generate RF magnetic field B2. The probing module is coupled to the tool body and configured to withdraw the fluid sample from a formation and deliver the fluid sample to the fluid testing module. The probing module comprises an external antenna drivable to generate RF magnetic field B1. The permanent magnet induces static magnetic field B0. The permanent magnet is coupled to the tool body and external to the probing module.