Robotic Logging Technology: The Future of Oil Well Logging

Nitin Lahkar Rishiraj Goswami

doi:10.4172/2329-6755.1000166

Abstract

The hour at hand calls for rapid innovation and drastic introduction of new technology to minimize problems in Oil and Gas Industry and to meet the growing need for Petroleum in all parts of the world. “Oil Well Logging” or the practice of making a detailed record (a well log) of the geologic formations penetrated by a borehole is an important practice in the Oil and Gas industry. Although a lot of research has been undertaken in this field, some basic limitations still exist. One of the main arenas or venues where plethora of problems arises is in logistically challenged areas. Accessibility and availability of efficient manpower, resources and technology is very time consuming, restricted and often costly in these areas. So, in this regard, the main challenge is to decrease the Non Productive Time (NPT) and Huge Mechanical Requirements involved in the conventional logging process. The thought for the solution to this problem has given rise to a revolutionary concept called the “Robotic Logging Technology”. Robotic logging technology promises the advent of successful logging in all kinds of wells and trajectories. It consists of a wireless logging tool controlled from the surface. This eliminates the need for the logging truck to be summoned which in turn saves precious rig time and in turn also reduces Bulk Mechanical Requirements by introduction of Robotics and Automation in the Oil Well Logging Technology. The robotic logging tool here, is designed such that it can move inside the well by different proposed mechanisms and models listed in the full paper as TYPE A, TYPE B and TYPE C. These types are classified on the basis of their operational technology, movement and conditions/wells in which the tool is to be used. Thus, depending on subsurface conditions, energy sources available and convenience the TYPE of Robotic model will be selected.

Highlights

Oil field technology has come a long way from Edwin Drake’s first well in 1857, the evolution of Rotary Steerable Systems with which we can drill almost any kind of well profile imaginable
As demands continue to skyrocket along with increasing population, newer technologies are required at the earnest to combat hydra headed challenges, difficult subsurface conditions and in the long run decrease Non Productive Time for maximum economic return
Robotic logging technology- breaking barriers: Robotic logging technology promises the advent of successful logging in all kinds of wells and trajectories

Summary

Introduction

Oil field technology has come a long way from Edwin Drake’s first well in 1857, the evolution of Rotary Steerable Systems with which we can drill almost any kind of well profile imaginable. Wireline logging: The oil and gas industry uses wire line logging to obtain a continuous record of a formation’s rock properties. These can be used to infer further properties, such as hydrocarbon saturation and formation pressure, and to make further drilling and production decisions. It falls freely under the control of the wireline until the deviation of the well reaches a point where friction on the tool string and cable prevents the string from progressing any further At this point, the tractor is activated. It consists of a wireless logging tool controlled from the surface

Methodology Prototype testing experiment

Limitations

Method used

Conclusion