Marking Agent Concentration for Drill Cutting Depth Estimation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for estimating the originating depth of drill cuttings in subterranean formations are inefficient, inaccurate, and costly, particularly due to limitations in correlating cutting signatures with depth, and are unsuitable for complex well geometries.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing marking agents added to the drilling fluid, where the concentration of these agents is varied to create a unique signature that can be measured and correlated with the depth of the cuttings, allowing for precise estimation of the cuttings' originating depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods (lag time correlation or signature analysis) are used to estimate cutting origination depth, then the estimation can be obtained, but the accuracy is limited and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the concentration of marking agents in the drilling fluid over time. Different concentrations create unique signatures that can be detected in cuttings, allowing precise depth estimation without complex signature correlation methods. The marking agent concentration is changed systematically to provide a time-dependent identifier for each depth interval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces marking agents as an intermediary substance between the drilling fluid and the cuttings. These agents transfer depth information to the cuttings by being incorporated into them during the drilling process. The marking agents serve as a mediator that carries the depth signature from the drilling fluid to the solid cuttings, enabling accurate depth tracking.
2Loss of information
If signature analysis methods are used to correlate cuttings with formation characteristics, then depth information can be obtained, but the method is costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of analyzing complex formation signatures, the patent simplifies the approach by changing the concentration parameter of marking agents. This creates a simple, monotonic relationship between concentration and depth that is easy to interpret and eliminates the need for complex signature correlation algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive marking agents that can be easily added to the drilling fluid and discarded after use. These agents provide a low-cost alternative to expensive signature analysis equipment and methodologies, achieving accurate depth information through simple concentration measurements.
3Productivity
If conventional depth estimation methods are used, then the process can be completed, but it is inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical and analytical processes with a simple chemical tracing method. Instead of using sophisticated signature analysis equipment and lengthy correlation procedures, the system uses chemical marking agents whose concentration can be quickly measured and directly correlated to depth, significantly reducing analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The marking agents automatically provide depth information as they are incorporated into the cuttings during the drilling process. The system is self-logging, requiring no additional active measurement or complex post-processing, which eliminates time losses associated with manual analysis and equipment operation.
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 efficient and accurate method for determining the originating depth of drill cuttings, reducing costs and complexity, and is applicable to various well geometries, including deviated wells, by using detectable parameters such as concentration ratios or color changes.
Implementation Method 1
The agent may be a solid, granular solid, liquid, gas or mixtures thereof... The originating depth may be estimated by measuring or evaluating a parameter related to the agent
Data Source
AI summary
A method for estimating a depth from which cuttings have been recovered from a well may include varying a parameter of one or more marking agents added into a drilling fluid circulated into the well and recovering the cuttings from the well. The depth may be estimated by estimating a value associated with the marking agent that marks the cuttings. A system for estimating a depth from which cuttings have been recovered from a well includes at least one marking agent configured to mark the cuttings and a marking agent dispensing device configured to add the at least one marking agent into a drilling fluid circulated into the well. The marking agent dispensing device may be further configured to vary a parameter of the at least one marking agent.