NMR Wellbore Tool for Real-Time Wettability Characterization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining sub-surface formation wettability characteristics, such as core analysis, are time-consuming, costly, and insufficient for maintaining accurate well system operation plans due to their inability to provide real-time, in-situ measurements, especially in heterogeneous formations where wettability characteristics can vary significantly within a well reservoir system.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a measuring tool equipped with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and bulk fluid measurement capabilities, inserted into a wellbore, which takes synchronized measurements at varying pump pressures to calculate wettability parameters, types, and pore-size dependent wettability variations, allowing for real-time data communication and improved well system operation planning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If core analysis methods are used to determine wettability characteristics, then measurement precision can be achieved, but time consumption and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical core analysis methods with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging technology. The NMR tool measures wettability characteristics by detecting the magnetic resonance signals of fluids in the formation, eliminating the need for physical core samples and laboratory analysis. This substitution of measurement methodology achieves both real-time in-situ measurements and accurate wettability characterization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an NMR logging tool as an intermediary device that can be deployed in the wellbore to perform measurements. This intermediary tool enables remote, real-time acquisition of wettability data without requiring retrieval of core samples, thus resolving the time and cost issues while maintaining measurement precision through advanced NMR techniques.
2Loss of information
If core analysis is performed, then wettability data can be obtained, but real-time measurement capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs wettability measurements in real-time during the drilling or logging process itself, rather than waiting for post-core-analysis results. The NMR tool is deployed in the wellbore and measures wettability characteristics as it passes through different formation zones, enabling immediate data acquisition and real-time decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the sequential process of core sampling, retrieval, and laboratory analysis with a direct in-situ NMR measurement system. This substitution enables continuous, real-time measurement of wettability characteristics as the logging tool moves through the formation, providing both complete data coverage and immediate results.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional measurement methods are used, then equipment complexity remains low, but ability to handle heterogeneous formations is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an NMR logging tool that serves multiple functions: measuring wettability characteristics, characterizing fluid saturation, determining pore size distribution, and assessing formation properties. This multi-functional tool can adapt to various formation types and conditions, providing comprehensive data for heterogeneous formations through a single versatile platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the ability of NMR measurements to detect changes in multiple physical parameters (relaxation times, diffusion coefficients, signal amplitudes) that reflect different formation properties. By analyzing these parameter variations, the system can characterize heterogeneous formations with varying wettability, fluid types, and pore structures, adapting to different geological conditions through parameter analysis rather than hardware changes.
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 reliable, real-time wettability characteristic data, enhancing well system operation planning by accurately determining wettability parameters and types, leading to improved hydrocarbon recovery strategies and more efficient well management.
Implementation Method 1
employing a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging and bulk fluid measuring tool
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a method of determining wettability characteristics of a sub-surface formation within a wellbore utilizing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and bulk fluid measurements at various stages of fluid saturation at that wellbore location. In another aspect, the pumping pressure is incrementally changed within the wellbore, measuring injection fluid and hydrocarbon saturation data values between the incremental pump pressure changes. In another aspect, a measuring and sampling tool is disclosed to execute the method and produce wettability characteristics. In another aspect, a system is disclosed that can operate NMR devices, bulk fluid equipment, pump systems, and other devices to collect data and to determine wettability characteristics on the collected data.