Modular Downhole Pipe Inspection for Variable Well Diagrams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electromagnetic logging tools for hydrocarbon exploration face challenges in accurately inspecting wellbore pipes due to varying well diagrams, requiring different numbers of sensors and logging speeds, which affects signal quality and tool specifications, often resulting in inaccurate data.
Innovation Solution
The development of reconfigurable electromagnetic pipe inspection tools with modular designs that allow customization based on well diagrams, including adjustable transmitter-receiver spacing, excitation current levels, and logging speeds, optimized through simulation and modeling to enhance data quality and tool performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of receivers is increased to see all pipes in one single run, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a reconfigurable tool where the number of active receivers can be dynamically adjusted based on the well diagram. The system allows selective activation of receivers to match the specific number of pipes in each well, optimizing measurement precision without permanently increasing device complexity. This dynamic configuration enables the same tool to adapt to different well scenarios.
2Productivity
If the logging speed is increased to reduce operation time, then the productivity is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to deteriorated log quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter optimization where logging speed is adjusted based on the specific well diagram and pipe configuration. The system calculates optimal logging speeds that maintain signal-to-noise ratio and log quality while maximizing productivity. Different well scenarios have different recommended logging speeds, allowing the system to balance precision and productivity dynamically.
3Measurement precision
If the tool configuration is customized for each well diagram, then the measurement precision is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to reconfiguration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated pre-planning functionality where the optimal tool configuration is calculated in advance based on the well diagram. The system determines the required number of receivers, optimal logging speed, and other parameters before the actual inspection job. This preliminary calculation eliminates manual reconfiguration efforts and simplifies field operations while maintaining optimized measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If the number of casings is increased, then the measurement precision for outer pipes is improved, but the loss of time increases due to longer response establishment time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the logging speed and acquisition parameters based on the number of casings in the well diagram. When multiple casings are present, the system automatically modifies operational parameters to account for the longer time required to establish steady responses. This dynamic adaptation maintains measurement precision for outer pipes while minimizing the time penalty through optimized logging strategies.
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 enables precise tool specifications and optimal configuration for each well, improving data quality, reducing operation time and costs, and providing accurate performance metrics for field engineers.
Implementation Method 1
when the transmitter coil emits the primary transient EM fields, eddy currents are induced in the casing
Implementation Method 2
eddy currents are induced in the casing. These eddy currents then produce secondary fields which are received along with the primary fields by the receiver coil
Data Source
AI summary
Reconfigurable electromagnetic pipe inspection tools are designed and assembled using optimized parameters determined using modeling. The reconfigurable tools include multiple modules connected to one another in a stackable fashion guided by optimized tool parameters customized based on well diagrams.