Wellbore Barrier Evaluation Using Vibration Measurement Data
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the integrity of wellbore barriers, such as cement, behind multiple casings are inadequate, as they primarily focus on the first annulus and fail to provide a robust evaluation of barriers behind subsequent casings.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing vibration measurement data, borehole seismic data, and wireline log data to determine boundary definitions between casings and formations, incorporating reflection-based and data-attribute-driven approaches to evaluate the integrity of barriers behind multiple casings, including the use of distributed vibration sensors and fiber optic cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sonic logging methods are used, then the acoustic impedance of the first annulus can be determined, but the barrier integrity behind subsequent casings cannot be evaluated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wellbore evaluation into multiple annular zones (first annulus, second annulus, etc.) by introducing multiple casings and evaluating each annulus separately. The system divides the evaluation task into discrete segments corresponding to each annulus behind successive casings, allowing independent assessment of barrier integrity in each zone using vibration measurement data and boundary definitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from evaluating only the first annulus (single dimension/zone) to evaluating multiple annuli (multiple dimensions/zones) by introducing additional casings. This dimensional expansion allows the system to assess barrier integrity radially outward through multiple concentric annular spaces, transforming a single-point evaluation into a multi-zonal assessment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple casings are installed to enable evaluation of subsequent annuli, then the evaluation coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by using the same vibration measurement system and boundary definition methodology across multiple annuli. The evaluation system serves universal purposes: it can assess barrier integrity in the first annulus, second annulus, and subsequent annuli using identical technical approaches, eliminating the need for different evaluation methods for each zone and reducing operational complexity.
3Measurement precision
If reflection-based boundary definition is used to evaluate multiple annuli, then the measurement precision is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vibration measurement data as an intermediary between the seismic source and the boundary definition process. This intermediary data layer helps isolate and identify reflection events corresponding to specific annular boundaries, making the interpretation of complex seismic data more manageable by providing additional contextual information about barrier locations and properties.
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
Enables comprehensive evaluation of cement integrity behind multiple casings, improving the assessment of hydraulic isolation and confidence in wellbore integrity, allowing for more accurate determination of cement presence and quality across multiple annuli.
Implementation Method 1
A method and system utilizing vibration measurement data, borehole seismic data, and wireline log data to determine boundary definitions between casings and formations
Implementation Method 2
a vibration sensor located in a wellbore having at least one casing; a vibration source of generating vibrations received with the vibration sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems of barrier evaluation are disclosed. The method includes obtaining vibration measurement data measured in a wellbore having at least one casing. In addition, the method includes determining a boundary definition of the barrier between the casing and a formation, based on the vibration measurement data. Further, the method includes evaluating the barrier based on the one boundary definition. The system includes a vibration sensor located in the wellbore having at least one casing and a vibration source for generating vibrations. The system may also include a data logging system of producing vibration measurement data received with the vibration sensor and a processor for determining at least one boundary definition of barrier between the casing and a formation, based on the vibration measurement data and evaluating the barrier based on the at least one boundary definition.