US20190242245A1 - Deepset receiver for drilling application - Google Patents
Deepset receiver for drilling application Download PDFInfo
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- US20190242245A1 US20190242245A1 US15/887,607 US201815887607A US2019242245A1 US 20190242245 A1 US20190242245 A1 US 20190242245A1 US 201815887607 A US201815887607 A US 201815887607A US 2019242245 A1 US2019242245 A1 US 2019242245A1
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Images
Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B47/00—Survey of boreholes or wells
- E21B47/09—Locating or determining the position of objects in boreholes or wells, e.g. the position of an extending arm; Identifying the free or blocked portions of pipes
- E21B47/092—Locating or determining the position of objects in boreholes or wells, e.g. the position of an extending arm; Identifying the free or blocked portions of pipes by detecting magnetic anomalies
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B47/00—Survey of boreholes or wells
- E21B47/12—Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling
- E21B47/13—Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling by electromagnetic energy, e.g. radio frequency
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- E21B47/122—
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B17/00—Drilling rods or pipes; Flexible drill strings; Kellies; Drill collars; Sucker rods; Cables; Casings; Tubings
- E21B17/02—Couplings; joints
- E21B17/023—Arrangements for connecting cables or wirelines to downhole devices
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B47/00—Survey of boreholes or wells
- E21B47/12—Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling
- E21B47/125—Means for transmitting measuring-signals or control signals from the well to the surface, or from the surface to the well, e.g. for logging while drilling using earth as an electrical conductor
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates in general to logging tools and particularly to receivers used in electromagnetic logging tools.
- Measurement-while-drilling (MWD) tools and logging-while-drilling (LWD) tools capture information during the process of drilling a wellbore.
- MWD Measurement-while-drilling
- LWD logging-while-drilling
- MWD tools typically provide drilling parameter information such as weight on the bit, torque, temperature, pressure, direction, and inclination.
- LWD tools typically provide formation evaluation measurements such as resistivity, porosity, and NMR distributions (e.g., T1 and T2).
- MWD and LWD tools often have characteristics common to wireline tools (e.g., transmitting and receiving antennas), but MWD and LWD tools must be constructed to not only endure but to operate in the harsh environment of drilling.
- FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary drilling telemetry system in a subterranean formation according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electromagnetic tool of the telemetry system of FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 3 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view exemplary signal receiving system of the telemetry system of FIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of the exemplary signal receiver according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5 is a flow chart diagram of at least a portion of a method according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- first and second features are formed in direct contact
- additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact.
- the system and method employ a transmitting element on a drill string that communicates electromagnetic signals through subterranean formations to a receiver disposed in a separate auxiliary borehole.
- the receiver may be particularly arranged to detect and receive signals, even weak signals, passed through the subterranean formation.
- the receiver is particularly designed without exterior material that may insulate or dampen signals that may be received through the subterranean formation. That is, in some exemplary implementations, the receiver comprises a conductive material forming an external surface of the receiver and disposed in direct contact with the subterranean formation.
- the conductive material may be in direct communication with a center core or wire forming a portion of the wireline cable. Signal processing may occur at the surface.
- FIG. 1 shows an example of a drilling telemetry system 100 for signaling in a subterranean formation.
- the drilling telemetry system 100 is formed of a drilling rig system 102 and a signal receiving system 104 .
- the drilling rig system 102 includes, among other components, a transmitter, and the signal receiving system 104 includes, among other components, a receiver.
- the drilling rig system 102 may electromagnetically communicate information to the receiving system 104 .
- the drilling rig system 102 may transmit information, such as information relating to the status of the drilling rig system 102 , the wellbore, or other information to the receiving system 104 .
- the drilling rig system 102 may emit electromagnetic signals that may be captured by the receiving system 104 that may allow the receiving system 104 to detect geological formation characteristics or other information relating to the geographic material through which the signals are transmitted.
- the drilling rig system 102 may be, for example, a land-based drilling rig system—however, one or more aspects of the present disclosure are applicable or readily adaptable to any type of drilling rig system (e.g., a jack-up rig, a semisubmersible, a drill ship, a coiled tubing rig, a well service rig adapted for drilling and/or re-entry operations, and a casing drilling rig, among others).
- the drilling rig system 102 includes a mast 106 that supports lifting gear above a rig floor 108 , which lifting gear may include a crown block and a traveling block. The crown block may be disposed at or near the top of the mast 106 .
- the traveling block may hang from the crown block by a drilling line.
- the drilling line may extend at one end from the lifting gear to drawworks, which drawworks are configured to reel out and reel in the drilling line to cause the traveling block to be lowered and raised relative to the rig floor 108 .
- the drilling rig system 102 may include a top drive 110 suspended from the bottom of the traveling block.
- a drill string 112 may be suspended from the top drive 110 and suspended within a wellbore 113 .
- the drill string 112 may include interconnected sections of drill pipe 114 , a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) 116 , and a drill bit 118 .
- the BHA 116 may include stabilizers, drill collars, and/or measurement-while-drilling (“MWD”) or wireline conveyed instruments, among other components.
- the drill bit 118 (also be referred to herein as a tool) is connected to the bottom of the BHA 116 or is otherwise attached to the drill string 112 .
- the downhole MWD or wireline conveyed instruments may be configured for the evaluation of physical properties such as pressure, temperature, torque, weight-on-bit (“WOB”), vibration, inclination, azimuth, toolface orientation in three-dimensional space, and/or other downhole parameters. These measurements may be made downhole, stored in solid-state memory for some time, and downloaded from the instrument(s) at the surface and/or transmitted real-time to the surface. In the implementations described herein, data may be transmitted electromagnetic pulses. In some implementations, in addition to transmission capability, the MWD tools and/or other portions of the BHA 116 may have the ability to store measurements for later retrieval via wireline and/or when the BHA 116 is tripped out of the wellbore 113 .
- WOB weight-on-bit
- the top drive 110 is utilized to impart rotary motion to the drill string 112 .
- aspects of the present disclosure are also applicable or readily adaptable to implementations utilizing other drive systems, such as a power swivel, a rotary table, a coiled tubing unit, a downhole motor, and/or a conventional rotary rig, among others.
- the drilling rig system 102 also includes a control system 120 configured to control or assist in the control of one or more components of the drilling rig system 102 —for example, the control system 120 may be configured to transmit operational control signals to a drawworks, the top drive 110 , the BHA 116 and/or additional equipment.
- the control system 120 includes one or more systems located in a control room proximate the drilling rig system 102 , such as the general purpose shelter often referred to as the “doghouse” serving as a combination tool shed, office, communications center, and general meeting place.
- the control system 120 may be configured to transmit the operational control signals to the drawworks, the top drive 110 , the BHA 116 , and/or other equipment via wired or wireless transmission (not shown).
- the control system 120 may also be configured to receive electronic signals via wired or wireless transmission (also not shown) from a variety of sensors included in the drilling rig system 102 , where each sensor is configured to detect an operational characteristic or parameter.
- Some example sensors from which the control system 120 is configured to receive electronic signals via wired or wireless transmission may include one or more of the following: a torque sensor, a speed sensor, and a WOB sensor.
- the BHA 116 may also include sensors disposed thereon.
- Some exemplary sensors include for example, a downhole annular pressure sensor 122 a , a shock/vibration sensor 122 b , a toolface sensor 122 c , a WOB sensor 122 d , a surface casing annular pressure sensor 124 , a mud motor delta pressure (“ ⁇ P”) sensor 126 a , and one or more torque sensors 126 b .
- the sensors are merely examples of any of a variety of sensors that may be included on the BHA 116 , the drill bit 118 , and/or otherwise disposed about the drilling rig system 102 .
- the BHA 116 also includes an EM tool 130 .
- the EM tool 130 may be configured to propagate an electromagnetic signal to convey information from the BHA for receipt and analysis by drilling rig personnel. Although identified as a part of the BHA 116 , in some implementations, the EM tool 130 is disposed elsewhere along the drill string 112 and down in the wellbore 113 . Some implementations include multiple EM tools 130 arranged to propagate a signal through the subterranean formations.
- the EM tool 130 may form a part of the measurement while drilling MWD tool. In some implementations, the EM tool 130 may form a part of a collar or stabilizer of the drill string.
- the EM tool 130 feature 2-way EM communication, while other implementations include only transmission capability.
- the power, the data rate, and the carrier wave may be adjustable while drilling to help transmit through changing formations.
- the EM tool may operate using batteries or a turbine alternator.
- the turbine alternator may enable longer downhole times, and higher transmitting power for longer periods.
- Some implementations may include backup batteries for operation during periods of no flow.
- FIG. 2 shows an example of an EM tool 130 that may form a part of the BHA 116 .
- the EM tool 130 may include an electrode 131 , a downlink receiver 132 , a transmitter 133 , and the power source 134 , such as batteries.
- the electrode 131 may enable the EM tool 130 to communicate with other downhole systems such as, for example, sensing systems that may be carried on the BHA.
- the downlink receiver 132 may be configured to receive signals and information from the surface, from other EM tools, or other equipment that may be in communication with the EM tool 130 .
- the transmitter 133 transmits EM signals through geological formations.
- the transmitter 133 is a high-voltage transmitter configured to automatically select the necessary power usage for the formation resistance. This may help extend the life of the power source 134 by reducing the need to transmit at full power in certain situations.
- the signal receiving system 104 may be disposed in an auxiliary borehole 138 .
- the signal receiving system 104 may include a cable antenna 140 and a signal processing system 142 .
- the cable antenna 140 includes a wireline cable 144 , an electrical cable head 146 , and a signal receiver 148 .
- the wireline cable 144 may extend or be wound around a cable coil or reel 150 disposed on steerable equipment, such as a working vehicle 152 , such as a truck. In the deployed configuration shown, the wireline cable 144 may extend from the cable coil 150 through a bore head 154 , and into the auxiliary borehole 138 .
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-section of a portion of the signal receiving system 104 , including a portion of the wireline cable 144 , the electrical cable head 146 , and the signal receiver 148 .
- the wireline cable 144 may include a center core 160 , a polymer jacket 162 surrounding the center core 160 , and a protective or armor layer 164 disposed about the polymer jacket 162 .
- the center core 160 may be formed of a conductive material and may extend the length of the wireline cable 144 .
- the center core 160 may be configured to communicate signals from the electrical cable head 146 and the signal receiver 148 to the processing system 142 .
- the polymer jacket is a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material, and in some implementations, the polymer jacket is or includes TEFLON® material.
- the polymer jacket 162 may insulate or isolate the center core 160 from the armor layer 164 .
- the protective or armor layer 164 may be formed of any material that provides protection and strength to the wireline cable 144 .
- it may comprise a metal or metal-clad, hollow cable that provides sufficient tensile strength to the wireline cable 144 . It may be formed of a plurality of braided wires or otherwise formed. It may be metal or some other material, including non-conductive materials. It may be designed to carry the weight of electrical cable head 146 and the signal receiver 148 .
- the armor layer 164 may form the outer surface of the wireline cable 144 .
- the armor layer is a steel armor layer.
- the electrical cable head 146 may be disposed between the wireline cable 144 and the signal receiver 148 . It may electrically connect the center core 160 to the conductive material of the signal receiver 148 .
- electrical cable head 146 may include a housing 168 , an electrical conductor 170 , and a cable anchor 172 .
- the housing 168 extends from a proximal end 174 to a distal end 176 .
- the proximal end 174 may include an opening 178 through which the wireline cable 144 may extend.
- the opening 178 may lead to an anchor cavity 180 in communication with a passage 182 .
- the distal end 176 of the housing 168 may include a threaded tip 184 .
- the electrical conductor 170 may be in electrical communication with the center core 160 of the wireline cable 144 .
- the electrical conductor 170 may extend in the passage 182 from the proximal end 174 to the distal end 176 and may terminate at the threaded tip 184 .
- the electrical conductor 170 comprises a spring-loaded contact 186 projecting from the distal end 176 that contacts the signal receiver 148 .
- the cable anchor 172 may be disposed within the anchor cavity 180 and may be connected to the wireline cable 144 . In some implementations, the cable anchor 172 is attached to the armor layer 164 of the wireline cable 144 . In some implementations, the center core 160 is electrically connected with the electrical conductor 170 through the cable anchor 172 . Some implementations include an insulative cover about the electrical conductor 170 . The insulative cover may be for example a ceramic or polymeric material that prevents electrical communication between the electrical conductor 170 and the housing 168 .
- the signal receiver 148 is connected to the distal end 176 of the housing 168 .
- the signal receiver 148 may be formed of a heavy, conductive material.
- the signal receiver 148 is formed of a solid stainless steel material.
- the signal receiver 148 is formed of copper, silver, or other highly conductive material and with features aiding deployment and contact with formation or casing it is deployed in.
- the signal receiver 148 is formed of a solid bulbous head 190 with sides 192 that taper toward the housing 168 , forming a frustum.
- a threaded bore or threaded cavity 194 is disposed in the end of the frustum and receives the threaded tip 184 of the housing 168 .
- the signal receiver 148 is formed to abut in direct contact with the walls or sides of the auxiliary borehole 138 ( FIG. 1 ) through which it is introduced. Accordingly, the signal receiver 148 is in contact with the natural geological formation of the auxiliary borehole 138 . In some embodiments, signal receiver 148 may contact the hole casing in case of cased holes. As such, the signal receiver 148 also acts as the signal receiver from the EM tool 130 . Because the signal receiver 148 is in direct contact with the subterranean formation, the signal receiver 148 is configured and arranged to receive EM signals from the EM tool 130 without interference or dampening from unnatural components about the signal receiver 148 .
- the signal receiver 148 is free of insulative or protective materials that may interfere or dampen reception of signals. Also, it is deployed deeper relative to a conventional EM antenna at the surface which is prone to signal attenuation for long reach wells and signal loss in case of salt domes in certain basins. Because of this, the signal receiver 148 may be particularly sensitive to even weak signals emitted from the EM tool 130 and propagated through the subterranean formation. Furthermore, the electrically conductive outer surface (the exterior surface) of the signal receiver 148 is in direct electrical communication with the electrical conductor 170 of the cable anchor 172 , and with the center core 160 of the wireline cable 144 . This electrical connection may be free of filtering or other signal distorting components so that the signal communicated to the ground surface is the complete and natural signal received at the signal receiver 148 .
- the shape of the signal receiver 148 may contribute to the receptivity of the EM signals.
- the bulbous head having a diameter greater than the diameter of the electrical cable head 146 insures that a significant portion of the signal receiver 148 is in contact with the natural subterranean formation.
- the signal receiver 148 has the largest cross-sectional diameter of any of the wireline cable 144 or the electrical cable head 146 . This may help increase the likelihood that the signal receiver 148 will be in contact with the subterranean formation whether disposed in a vertical auxiliary borehole or in a curved or a horizontal auxiliary borehole.
- FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an example of a signal receiver 148 .
- the signal receiver 148 in this implementation includes a rounded leading end 196 and a trailing end 198 .
- the tapering sides 192 taper toward the trailing end 198 .
- the signal receiver 148 has a substantially teardrop-shape, with the rounded leading end 196 forming the large diameter bulbous head.
- a notch 199 may be formed in a side to enable the signal receiver 148 to be grasped by a tool for threading onto the electrical cable head 146 .
- the signal receiver 148 has a diameter in the range of about 2 to 12 inches, and has a length in a range of about 3 to 18 inches, although larger and smaller diameters and lengths are contemplated. In some implementations, the signal receiver 148 has a diameter in the range of about 2 to 4 inches and has a length in the range of about 4 to 8 inches. Furthermore, the rigidity of the bulbous signal receiver reduces the likelihood of hang-up when the signal receiver 148 is introduced and fed through the auxiliary borehole 138 . For example, a loose cable or other flexible component at the distal end may interfere with advancement of the signal receiving system 104 .
- an insulative covering may isolate the signal receiver 148 from the housing 168 of the electrical cable head 146 .
- the signal receiver 148 is still in electrical communication with the electrical conductor 170 projecting from the threaded tip 184 of the housing 168 .
- the electrical conductor 170 is the only component in electrical communication with the signal receiver 148 .
- the signal processing system 142 may be disposed at the surface adjacent the bore hole and may be configured to receive and process signals detected or received at the signal receiver 148 .
- the processing system 142 is in direct communication with the center core 160 of the wireline cable 144 . Accordingly, signals detected at the signal receiver 148 may be communicated through the electrical cable head 146 and the wireline cable 144 to the processing system 142 .
- the processing system 142 is a computer having software configured to interpret EM signals received from the EM tool 130 .
- the cable antenna 140 implementation shown in FIG. 3 may be a retrievable type and may be easily deployable by means of coil tubing or wireline or the center conductor can be isolated or connected to the polymeric material. In some implementations, this receiver may be used for a multitude of wells being drilled across the pad as well as nearby pads.
- the wireline cable 144 , the electrical cable head 146 , and the signal receiver 148 form a simple conductive connection having no control feedback or logic system. It may receive and relay the signal to the surface.
- the system does not require electric/magnetic isolation between the center core and the polymeric jacket. Furthermore, in some implementations, the system does not require insulation between the signal receiver 148 , the electrical conductor 170 , and the center core 160 .
- FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a process of using the drilling telemetry system 100 according to an exemplary implementation.
- a user may introduce the EM tool 130 to the wellbore.
- the EM tool 130 may form a part of or be disposed adjacent to a BHA during a drilling operation carried out by the drilling rig system 102 .
- the EM tool 130 may be spaced apart from the BHA, but may be downhole in the subterranean formation.
- a user may introduce the signal receiving system to an auxiliary borehole. Because of the size and shape of the signal receiver 148 , the signal receiver may be in direct contact with the natural subterranean formation. That is, because the signal receiver 148 forms the distal most tip of the signal receiving system, and because the signal receiver 148 may, in some implementations, have a diameter larger than other components around the signal receiver 148 , the signal receiver 148 may be in direct contact with the natural subterranean formation. Since the signal receiver 148 is also un-insulated, EM signals propagated through the subterranean formation may be detected or picked up directly from the subterranean formation without interference or dampening from insulative or isolating materials other than the natural subterranean formation.
- the signal receiving system 104 may be introduced to the auxiliary borehole with the electrical cable head 146 and the signal receiver 148 suspended from the wireline cable 144 .
- the signal receiver and the electrical cable head 146 each include direct electrical contact with each other.
- the EM tool 130 may transmit EM signals through the subterranean formation.
- the signals may relate to detected parameters of the wellbore and its surrounding environment, of the drilling equipment, or of the subterranean formation. Accordingly, the transmitted EM signals may include MWD or LWD information.
- the EM signals may be transmitted while actual drilling is occurring, or may be transmitted during down times of the drilling process, such as when stands are being introduced to the drill string or during other stoppages in actual drilling.
- the signal receiver 148 may detect the EM signals directly from the subterranean formation. Since the signal receiver 148 is particularly shaped to provide a large amount of surface contact area, as well as have a wider diameter than other components of the downhole signal receiving system, the signal receiver 148 may receive signals left otherwise undetected by conventional telemetry systems. In some implementations, the EM signals are received only at the signal receiver. In such implementations, the electrical cable head 146 and the wireline cable 144 may include insulative or protective materials disposed about their respective conductive portions that may inhibit reception of EM signals transmitted or propagated through the subterranean formation.
- the detected signals may be communicated directly from the signal receiver through the electrical cable head 146 and the wireline cable 144 to the processing system 142 . Since the signal receiver is in direct electrical communication with the electrical conductor of the electrical cable head 146 , and since the electrical conductor 170 is in direct electrical communication with the center core 160 of the wireline cable 144 , signals may be communicated directly to the processing system 142 , even when the processing system 142 is disposed above ground. At 512 , the processing system 142 may interpret the signals at the surface.
- the present disclosure is directed to a drilling telemetry system that may include an EM tool sized and configured to be disposed on a drill string and introduced into a wellbore in a subterranean formation.
- the EM tool may comprise a transmitter configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal through the subterranean formation.
- the drilling telemetry sytem may also include a cable antenna sized and configured to be introduced into an adjacent auxiliary borehole in the subterranean formation and arranged to receive the electromagnetic signal transmitted from the EM tool.
- the cable antenna may comprise a wireline cable having a center core, an insulated electrical cable head in direct electrical communication with the center core, and an uninsulated signal receiver in direct electrical communication with electrical cable head.
- the uninsulated signal receiver may have an outer surface formed of a conductive material and configured to engage against a natural subterranean formation.
- the uninsulated signal receiver has a teardrop shape forming a bulbous head.
- the uninsulated signal receiver comprises a threaded cavity formed therein for receiving a portion of the electrical cable head.
- the cable antenna comprises a polymeric jacket around the center core, and a protective layer disposed around the polymeric jacket.
- the armor layer is embedded within and fixedly attaches the insulated electrical cable head to the cable.
- the conductive material of the uninsulated signal receiver comprises stainless steel.
- the EM tool comprises a transmitter and a power source.
- the uninsulated signal receiver has a diameter of about 2 to about 12 inches, and a length of about 3 to about 18 inches.
- a method of using a drilling telemetry system may include introducing an EM tool to a wellbore; introducing a signal receiving system to an adjacent auxiliary borehole; transmitting an EM signal from the EM tool in the wellbore; detecting the transmitted EM signal with the signal receiver having a conductive exterior surface in direct contact with walls of the auxiliary borehole, the conductive exterior surface being in direct electrical communication with an electrical cable head and a wireline cable; and communicating the detected EM signal to a signal processing system in communication with the wireline cable.
- detecting the transmitted EM signal with the signal receiver comprises detecting the transmitted EM signal only at the signal receiver.
- the method may include performing a drilling operation, and wherein transmitting the EM signal from the EM tool occurs during the drilling operation.
- the method may include insulating or isolating a conductive center core in the wireline cable and a conductor in the electrical cable head from contact with the walls of the auxiliary borehole.
- communicating the detected EM signal comprises communicating the detected EM signal through a conductor in the electrical cable head and through a conductive center core of the wireline cable.
- the exterior surface of the signal receiver is in direct conductive electrical communication with the conductor in the electrical cable head.
- the method may include threading the signal receiver on to a distal end of the electrical cable head to place a spring-loaded contact in electrical communication with the signal receiver.
- the uninsulated signal receiver has a teardrop shape forming a bulbous head.
- transmitting an EM signal comprises transmitting an EM signal representative of one or more detected parameters of the wellbore, an environment surrounding the wellbore, of the drilling equipment, of the subterranean formation, or a combination thereof.
- the present disclosure is directed to a drilling telemetry system that includes an EM tool sized and configured to be disposed on a drill string and introduced into a wellbore in a subterranean formation.
- the EM tool may include a transmitter configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal through the subterranean formation.
- the drilling telemetry system may also include a cable antenna sized and configured to be introduced into an adjacent auxiliary borehole in the subterranean formation and to receive the electromagnetic signal transmitted from the EM tool.
- the cable antenna may include a wireline cable having a center core, a polymeric insulative layer disposed about the center core, and an outer protective layer disposed about the polymeric insulative layer.
- the cable antenna also may include an electrical cable head having a housing, an electrical conductor in electrical communication with the center core of the wireline and extending through the housing, and a cable anchor attached to the outer protective layer and configured to secure the electrical cable head to the wireline cable.
- the housing may have a distal end having a spring-loaded contact.
- the cable antenna also may include an uninsulated signal receiver disposed at a distal-most end of the cable antenna and formed of a rigid, conductive material having a diameter of about 2 to about 12 inches.
- the uninsulated signal receiver may have a conductive outer surface exposed to engage against a natural subterranean formation when the cable antenna is disposed in borehole.
- the uninsulated signal receiver may be in direct electrical communication with the spring-loaded contact to provide uninterrupted electrical communication between the conductive outer surface and the electrical conductor of the electrical cable head.
- the uninsulated signal receiver has a teardrop shape forming a bulbous head. In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver comprises a threaded cavity formed therein for receiving a portion of the electrical cable head.
- the elements and teachings of the various illustrative exemplary embodiments may be combined in whole or in part in some or all of the illustrative exemplary embodiments.
- one or more of the elements and teachings of the various illustrative exemplary embodiments may be omitted, at least in part, and/or combined, at least in part, with one or more of the other elements and teachings of the various illustrative embodiments.
- any spatial references such as, for example, “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” “between,” “bottom,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “angular,” “upwards,” “downwards,” “side-to-side,” “left-to-right,” “right-to-left,” “top-to-bottom,” “bottom-to-top,” “top,” “bottom,” “bottom-up,” “top-down,” etc., are for the purpose of illustration only and do not limit the specific orientation or location of the structure described above.
- steps, processes, and procedures are described as appearing as distinct acts, one or more of the steps, one or more of the processes, and/or one or more of the procedures may also be performed in different orders, simultaneously and/or sequentially. In several exemplary embodiments, the steps, processes and/or procedures may be merged into one or more steps, processes and/or procedures.
- one or more of the operational steps in each embodiment may be omitted.
- some features of the present disclosure may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features.
- one or more of the above-described embodiments and/or variations may be combined in whole or in part with any one or more of the other above-described embodiments and/or variations.
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Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates in general to logging tools and particularly to receivers used in electromagnetic logging tools.
- Measurement-while-drilling (MWD) tools and logging-while-drilling (LWD) tools capture information during the process of drilling a wellbore. However, the ability of current receivers to receive signals using MWD tools typically provide drilling parameter information such as weight on the bit, torque, temperature, pressure, direction, and inclination. LWD tools typically provide formation evaluation measurements such as resistivity, porosity, and NMR distributions (e.g., T1 and T2). MWD and LWD tools often have characteristics common to wireline tools (e.g., transmitting and receiving antennas), but MWD and LWD tools must be constructed to not only endure but to operate in the harsh environment of drilling.
- The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.
-
FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary drilling telemetry system in a subterranean formation according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an exemplary electromagnetic tool of the telemetry system ofFIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 3 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view exemplary signal receiving system of the telemetry system ofFIG. 1 according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of the exemplary signal receiver according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5 is a flow chart diagram of at least a portion of a method according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. - It is to be understood that the following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of various embodiments. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact.
- This disclosure is directed to an improved system and method for obtaining downhole information during a well drilling process. In some implementations, the system and method employ a transmitting element on a drill string that communicates electromagnetic signals through subterranean formations to a receiver disposed in a separate auxiliary borehole. The receiver may be particularly arranged to detect and receive signals, even weak signals, passed through the subterranean formation. In this implementation, the receiver is particularly designed without exterior material that may insulate or dampen signals that may be received through the subterranean formation. That is, in some exemplary implementations, the receiver comprises a conductive material forming an external surface of the receiver and disposed in direct contact with the subterranean formation. In addition, the conductive material may be in direct communication with a center core or wire forming a portion of the wireline cable. Signal processing may occur at the surface.
-
FIG. 1 shows an example of adrilling telemetry system 100 for signaling in a subterranean formation. In this implementation, thedrilling telemetry system 100 is formed of adrilling rig system 102 and asignal receiving system 104. Thedrilling rig system 102 includes, among other components, a transmitter, and thesignal receiving system 104 includes, among other components, a receiver. Thedrilling rig system 102 may electromagnetically communicate information to thereceiving system 104. For example, thedrilling rig system 102 may transmit information, such as information relating to the status of thedrilling rig system 102, the wellbore, or other information to thereceiving system 104. In other examples, thedrilling rig system 102 may emit electromagnetic signals that may be captured by thereceiving system 104 that may allow thereceiving system 104 to detect geological formation characteristics or other information relating to the geographic material through which the signals are transmitted. - The
drilling rig system 102 may be, for example, a land-based drilling rig system—however, one or more aspects of the present disclosure are applicable or readily adaptable to any type of drilling rig system (e.g., a jack-up rig, a semisubmersible, a drill ship, a coiled tubing rig, a well service rig adapted for drilling and/or re-entry operations, and a casing drilling rig, among others). Thedrilling rig system 102 includes amast 106 that supports lifting gear above arig floor 108, which lifting gear may include a crown block and a traveling block. The crown block may be disposed at or near the top of themast 106. The traveling block may hang from the crown block by a drilling line. The drilling line may extend at one end from the lifting gear to drawworks, which drawworks are configured to reel out and reel in the drilling line to cause the traveling block to be lowered and raised relative to therig floor 108. - In some implementations, the
drilling rig system 102 may include atop drive 110 suspended from the bottom of the traveling block. Adrill string 112 may be suspended from thetop drive 110 and suspended within awellbore 113. - The
drill string 112 may include interconnected sections ofdrill pipe 114, a bottom-hole assembly (“BHA”) 116, and adrill bit 118. The BHA 116 may include stabilizers, drill collars, and/or measurement-while-drilling (“MWD”) or wireline conveyed instruments, among other components. The drill bit 118 (also be referred to herein as a tool) is connected to the bottom of theBHA 116 or is otherwise attached to thedrill string 112. - The downhole MWD or wireline conveyed instruments may be configured for the evaluation of physical properties such as pressure, temperature, torque, weight-on-bit (“WOB”), vibration, inclination, azimuth, toolface orientation in three-dimensional space, and/or other downhole parameters. These measurements may be made downhole, stored in solid-state memory for some time, and downloaded from the instrument(s) at the surface and/or transmitted real-time to the surface. In the implementations described herein, data may be transmitted electromagnetic pulses. In some implementations, in addition to transmission capability, the MWD tools and/or other portions of the
BHA 116 may have the ability to store measurements for later retrieval via wireline and/or when the BHA 116 is tripped out of thewellbore 113. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1 , thetop drive 110 is utilized to impart rotary motion to thedrill string 112. However, aspects of the present disclosure are also applicable or readily adaptable to implementations utilizing other drive systems, such as a power swivel, a rotary table, a coiled tubing unit, a downhole motor, and/or a conventional rotary rig, among others. - The
drilling rig system 102 also includes acontrol system 120 configured to control or assist in the control of one or more components of thedrilling rig system 102—for example, thecontrol system 120 may be configured to transmit operational control signals to a drawworks, thetop drive 110, the BHA 116 and/or additional equipment. In some embodiments, thecontrol system 120 includes one or more systems located in a control room proximate thedrilling rig system 102, such as the general purpose shelter often referred to as the “doghouse” serving as a combination tool shed, office, communications center, and general meeting place. Thecontrol system 120 may be configured to transmit the operational control signals to the drawworks, thetop drive 110, the BHA 116, and/or other equipment via wired or wireless transmission (not shown). Thecontrol system 120 may also be configured to receive electronic signals via wired or wireless transmission (also not shown) from a variety of sensors included in thedrilling rig system 102, where each sensor is configured to detect an operational characteristic or parameter. Some example sensors from which thecontrol system 120 is configured to receive electronic signals via wired or wireless transmission (not shown) may include one or more of the following: a torque sensor, a speed sensor, and a WOB sensor. In some implementations, the BHA 116 may also include sensors disposed thereon. Some exemplary sensors include for example, a downholeannular pressure sensor 122 a, a shock/vibration sensor 122 b, atoolface sensor 122 c, aWOB sensor 122 d, a surface casingannular pressure sensor 124, a mud motor delta pressure (“ΔP”)sensor 126 a, and one ormore torque sensors 126 b. The sensors are merely examples of any of a variety of sensors that may be included on theBHA 116, thedrill bit 118, and/or otherwise disposed about thedrilling rig system 102. - In this exemplary embodiment, the BHA 116 also includes an
EM tool 130. TheEM tool 130 may be configured to propagate an electromagnetic signal to convey information from the BHA for receipt and analysis by drilling rig personnel. Although identified as a part of the BHA 116, in some implementations, theEM tool 130 is disposed elsewhere along thedrill string 112 and down in thewellbore 113. Some implementations includemultiple EM tools 130 arranged to propagate a signal through the subterranean formations. TheEM tool 130 may form a part of the measurement while drilling MWD tool. In some implementations, theEM tool 130 may form a part of a collar or stabilizer of the drill string. Some implementations of theEM tool 130 feature 2-way EM communication, while other implementations include only transmission capability. In some implementations, the power, the data rate, and the carrier wave may be adjustable while drilling to help transmit through changing formations. In some implementations, the EM tool may operate using batteries or a turbine alternator. The turbine alternator may enable longer downhole times, and higher transmitting power for longer periods. Some implementations may include backup batteries for operation during periods of no flow. -
FIG. 2 shows an example of anEM tool 130 that may form a part of theBHA 116. TheEM tool 130 may include anelectrode 131, adownlink receiver 132, atransmitter 133, and thepower source 134, such as batteries. Theelectrode 131 may enable theEM tool 130 to communicate with other downhole systems such as, for example, sensing systems that may be carried on the BHA. Thedownlink receiver 132 may be configured to receive signals and information from the surface, from other EM tools, or other equipment that may be in communication with theEM tool 130. Thetransmitter 133 transmits EM signals through geological formations. In some implementations, thetransmitter 133 is a high-voltage transmitter configured to automatically select the necessary power usage for the formation resistance. This may help extend the life of thepower source 134 by reducing the need to transmit at full power in certain situations. - Returning to
FIG. 1 , thesignal receiving system 104 may be disposed in anauxiliary borehole 138. Thesignal receiving system 104 may include acable antenna 140 and asignal processing system 142. In the implementation shown, thecable antenna 140 includes awireline cable 144, anelectrical cable head 146, and asignal receiver 148. In this example, thewireline cable 144 may extend or be wound around a cable coil or reel 150 disposed on steerable equipment, such as a workingvehicle 152, such as a truck. In the deployed configuration shown, thewireline cable 144 may extend from thecable coil 150 through abore head 154, and into theauxiliary borehole 138. -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-section of a portion of thesignal receiving system 104, including a portion of thewireline cable 144, theelectrical cable head 146, and thesignal receiver 148. Thewireline cable 144 may include acenter core 160, apolymer jacket 162 surrounding thecenter core 160, and a protective orarmor layer 164 disposed about thepolymer jacket 162. Thecenter core 160 may be formed of a conductive material and may extend the length of thewireline cable 144. Thecenter core 160 may be configured to communicate signals from theelectrical cable head 146 and thesignal receiver 148 to theprocessing system 142. In some examples, the polymer jacket is a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) material, and in some implementations, the polymer jacket is or includes TEFLON® material. Thepolymer jacket 162 may insulate or isolate thecenter core 160 from thearmor layer 164. The protective orarmor layer 164 may be formed of any material that provides protection and strength to thewireline cable 144. For example, it may comprise a metal or metal-clad, hollow cable that provides sufficient tensile strength to thewireline cable 144. It may be formed of a plurality of braided wires or otherwise formed. It may be metal or some other material, including non-conductive materials. It may be designed to carry the weight ofelectrical cable head 146 and thesignal receiver 148. Thearmor layer 164 may form the outer surface of thewireline cable 144. In some implementations, the armor layer is a steel armor layer. - The
electrical cable head 146 may be disposed between thewireline cable 144 and thesignal receiver 148. It may electrically connect thecenter core 160 to the conductive material of thesignal receiver 148. In some implementations,electrical cable head 146 may include ahousing 168, anelectrical conductor 170, and acable anchor 172. Thehousing 168 extends from aproximal end 174 to adistal end 176. Theproximal end 174 may include anopening 178 through which thewireline cable 144 may extend. Theopening 178 may lead to ananchor cavity 180 in communication with apassage 182. Thedistal end 176 of thehousing 168 may include a threadedtip 184. - The
electrical conductor 170 may be in electrical communication with thecenter core 160 of thewireline cable 144. In some implementations, theelectrical conductor 170 may extend in thepassage 182 from theproximal end 174 to thedistal end 176 and may terminate at the threadedtip 184. In some implementations, theelectrical conductor 170 comprises a spring-loadedcontact 186 projecting from thedistal end 176 that contacts thesignal receiver 148. - The
cable anchor 172 may be disposed within theanchor cavity 180 and may be connected to thewireline cable 144. In some implementations, thecable anchor 172 is attached to thearmor layer 164 of thewireline cable 144. In some implementations, thecenter core 160 is electrically connected with theelectrical conductor 170 through thecable anchor 172. Some implementations include an insulative cover about theelectrical conductor 170. The insulative cover may be for example a ceramic or polymeric material that prevents electrical communication between theelectrical conductor 170 and thehousing 168. - The
signal receiver 148 is connected to thedistal end 176 of thehousing 168. Thesignal receiver 148 may be formed of a heavy, conductive material. In some implementations, thesignal receiver 148 is formed of a solid stainless steel material. In other implementations, thesignal receiver 148 is formed of copper, silver, or other highly conductive material and with features aiding deployment and contact with formation or casing it is deployed in. In the implementation shown, thesignal receiver 148 is formed of a solidbulbous head 190 withsides 192 that taper toward thehousing 168, forming a frustum. A threaded bore or threadedcavity 194 is disposed in the end of the frustum and receives the threadedtip 184 of thehousing 168. Thesignal receiver 148 is formed to abut in direct contact with the walls or sides of the auxiliary borehole 138 (FIG. 1 ) through which it is introduced. Accordingly, thesignal receiver 148 is in contact with the natural geological formation of theauxiliary borehole 138. In some embodiments,signal receiver 148 may contact the hole casing in case of cased holes. As such, thesignal receiver 148 also acts as the signal receiver from theEM tool 130. Because thesignal receiver 148 is in direct contact with the subterranean formation, thesignal receiver 148 is configured and arranged to receive EM signals from theEM tool 130 without interference or dampening from unnatural components about thesignal receiver 148. For example, thesignal receiver 148 is free of insulative or protective materials that may interfere or dampen reception of signals. Also, it is deployed deeper relative to a conventional EM antenna at the surface which is prone to signal attenuation for long reach wells and signal loss in case of salt domes in certain basins. Because of this, thesignal receiver 148 may be particularly sensitive to even weak signals emitted from theEM tool 130 and propagated through the subterranean formation. Furthermore, the electrically conductive outer surface (the exterior surface) of thesignal receiver 148 is in direct electrical communication with theelectrical conductor 170 of thecable anchor 172, and with thecenter core 160 of thewireline cable 144. This electrical connection may be free of filtering or other signal distorting components so that the signal communicated to the ground surface is the complete and natural signal received at thesignal receiver 148. - In this implementation, the shape of the
signal receiver 148 may contribute to the receptivity of the EM signals. For example, the bulbous head, having a diameter greater than the diameter of theelectrical cable head 146 insures that a significant portion of thesignal receiver 148 is in contact with the natural subterranean formation. In the implementation shown, thesignal receiver 148 has the largest cross-sectional diameter of any of thewireline cable 144 or theelectrical cable head 146. This may help increase the likelihood that thesignal receiver 148 will be in contact with the subterranean formation whether disposed in a vertical auxiliary borehole or in a curved or a horizontal auxiliary borehole. -
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an example of asignal receiver 148. Thesignal receiver 148 in this implementation includes a roundedleading end 196 and a trailingend 198. The taperingsides 192 taper toward the trailingend 198. In this implementation, thesignal receiver 148 has a substantially teardrop-shape, with the roundedleading end 196 forming the large diameter bulbous head. Anotch 199 may be formed in a side to enable thesignal receiver 148 to be grasped by a tool for threading onto theelectrical cable head 146. In some implementations, thesignal receiver 148 has a diameter in the range of about 2 to 12 inches, and has a length in a range of about 3 to 18 inches, although larger and smaller diameters and lengths are contemplated. In some implementations, thesignal receiver 148 has a diameter in the range of about 2 to 4 inches and has a length in the range of about 4 to 8 inches. Furthermore, the rigidity of the bulbous signal receiver reduces the likelihood of hang-up when thesignal receiver 148 is introduced and fed through theauxiliary borehole 138. For example, a loose cable or other flexible component at the distal end may interfere with advancement of thesignal receiving system 104. - In some implementations, an insulative covering may isolate the
signal receiver 148 from thehousing 168 of theelectrical cable head 146. In such implementations, thesignal receiver 148 is still in electrical communication with theelectrical conductor 170 projecting from the threadedtip 184 of thehousing 168. In some implementations, theelectrical conductor 170 is the only component in electrical communication with thesignal receiver 148. - The
signal processing system 142 may be disposed at the surface adjacent the bore hole and may be configured to receive and process signals detected or received at thesignal receiver 148. In some implementations, theprocessing system 142 is in direct communication with thecenter core 160 of thewireline cable 144. Accordingly, signals detected at thesignal receiver 148 may be communicated through theelectrical cable head 146 and thewireline cable 144 to theprocessing system 142. In some implementations, theprocessing system 142 is a computer having software configured to interpret EM signals received from theEM tool 130. - Because the
signal receiver 148 is able to directly contact the subterranean formations, and there is no isolation or insulative elements between thesignal receiver 148 and thecenter core 160, EM signals may be more easily received and captured for processing. Thecable antenna 140 implementation shown inFIG. 3 may be a retrievable type and may be easily deployable by means of coil tubing or wireline or the center conductor can be isolated or connected to the polymeric material. In some implementations, this receiver may be used for a multitude of wells being drilled across the pad as well as nearby pads. In some implementations, thewireline cable 144, theelectrical cable head 146, and thesignal receiver 148 form a simple conductive connection having no control feedback or logic system. It may receive and relay the signal to the surface. In some implementations, the system does not require electric/magnetic isolation between the center core and the polymeric jacket. Furthermore, in some implementations, the system does not require insulation between thesignal receiver 148, theelectrical conductor 170, and thecenter core 160. -
FIG. 5 is a flow diagram showing a process of using thedrilling telemetry system 100 according to an exemplary implementation. At 502, a user may introduce theEM tool 130 to the wellbore. TheEM tool 130 may form a part of or be disposed adjacent to a BHA during a drilling operation carried out by thedrilling rig system 102. In some implementations, theEM tool 130 may be spaced apart from the BHA, but may be downhole in the subterranean formation. - At 504, a user may introduce the signal receiving system to an auxiliary borehole. Because of the size and shape of the
signal receiver 148, the signal receiver may be in direct contact with the natural subterranean formation. That is, because thesignal receiver 148 forms the distal most tip of the signal receiving system, and because thesignal receiver 148 may, in some implementations, have a diameter larger than other components around thesignal receiver 148, thesignal receiver 148 may be in direct contact with the natural subterranean formation. Since thesignal receiver 148 is also un-insulated, EM signals propagated through the subterranean formation may be detected or picked up directly from the subterranean formation without interference or dampening from insulative or isolating materials other than the natural subterranean formation. Thesignal receiving system 104 may be introduced to the auxiliary borehole with theelectrical cable head 146 and thesignal receiver 148 suspended from thewireline cable 144. The signal receiver and theelectrical cable head 146 each include direct electrical contact with each other. - At 506, the
EM tool 130 may transmit EM signals through the subterranean formation. The signals may relate to detected parameters of the wellbore and its surrounding environment, of the drilling equipment, or of the subterranean formation. Accordingly, the transmitted EM signals may include MWD or LWD information. The EM signals may be transmitted while actual drilling is occurring, or may be transmitted during down times of the drilling process, such as when stands are being introduced to the drill string or during other stoppages in actual drilling. - At 508, the
signal receiver 148 may detect the EM signals directly from the subterranean formation. Since thesignal receiver 148 is particularly shaped to provide a large amount of surface contact area, as well as have a wider diameter than other components of the downhole signal receiving system, thesignal receiver 148 may receive signals left otherwise undetected by conventional telemetry systems. In some implementations, the EM signals are received only at the signal receiver. In such implementations, theelectrical cable head 146 and thewireline cable 144 may include insulative or protective materials disposed about their respective conductive portions that may inhibit reception of EM signals transmitted or propagated through the subterranean formation. - At 510, the detected signals may be communicated directly from the signal receiver through the
electrical cable head 146 and thewireline cable 144 to theprocessing system 142. Since the signal receiver is in direct electrical communication with the electrical conductor of theelectrical cable head 146, and since theelectrical conductor 170 is in direct electrical communication with thecenter core 160 of thewireline cable 144, signals may be communicated directly to theprocessing system 142, even when theprocessing system 142 is disposed above ground. At 512, theprocessing system 142 may interpret the signals at the surface. - In an exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a drilling telemetry system that may include an EM tool sized and configured to be disposed on a drill string and introduced into a wellbore in a subterranean formation. The EM tool may comprise a transmitter configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal through the subterranean formation. The drilling telemetry sytem may also include a cable antenna sized and configured to be introduced into an adjacent auxiliary borehole in the subterranean formation and arranged to receive the electromagnetic signal transmitted from the EM tool. The cable antenna may comprise a wireline cable having a center core, an insulated electrical cable head in direct electrical communication with the center core, and an uninsulated signal receiver in direct electrical communication with electrical cable head. The uninsulated signal receiver may have an outer surface formed of a conductive material and configured to engage against a natural subterranean formation.
- In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver has a teardrop shape forming a bulbous head. In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver comprises a threaded cavity formed therein for receiving a portion of the electrical cable head. In some aspects, the cable antenna comprises a polymeric jacket around the center core, and a protective layer disposed around the polymeric jacket. In some aspects, the armor layer is embedded within and fixedly attaches the insulated electrical cable head to the cable. In some aspects, the conductive material of the uninsulated signal receiver comprises stainless steel. In some aspects, the EM tool comprises a transmitter and a power source. In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver has a diameter of about 2 to about 12 inches, and a length of about 3 to about 18 inches.
- In an exemplary implementation, a method of using a drilling telemetry system may include introducing an EM tool to a wellbore; introducing a signal receiving system to an adjacent auxiliary borehole; transmitting an EM signal from the EM tool in the wellbore; detecting the transmitted EM signal with the signal receiver having a conductive exterior surface in direct contact with walls of the auxiliary borehole, the conductive exterior surface being in direct electrical communication with an electrical cable head and a wireline cable; and communicating the detected EM signal to a signal processing system in communication with the wireline cable.
- In some aspects, detecting the transmitted EM signal with the signal receiver comprises detecting the transmitted EM signal only at the signal receiver. In some aspects, the method may include performing a drilling operation, and wherein transmitting the EM signal from the EM tool occurs during the drilling operation. In some aspects, the method may include insulating or isolating a conductive center core in the wireline cable and a conductor in the electrical cable head from contact with the walls of the auxiliary borehole. In some aspects, communicating the detected EM signal comprises communicating the detected EM signal through a conductor in the electrical cable head and through a conductive center core of the wireline cable. In some aspects, the exterior surface of the signal receiver is in direct conductive electrical communication with the conductor in the electrical cable head. In some aspects, the method may include threading the signal receiver on to a distal end of the electrical cable head to place a spring-loaded contact in electrical communication with the signal receiver. In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver has a teardrop shape forming a bulbous head. In some aspects, transmitting an EM signal comprises transmitting an EM signal representative of one or more detected parameters of the wellbore, an environment surrounding the wellbore, of the drilling equipment, of the subterranean formation, or a combination thereof.
- In an exemplary aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a drilling telemetry system that includes an EM tool sized and configured to be disposed on a drill string and introduced into a wellbore in a subterranean formation. The EM tool may include a transmitter configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal through the subterranean formation. The drilling telemetry system may also include a cable antenna sized and configured to be introduced into an adjacent auxiliary borehole in the subterranean formation and to receive the electromagnetic signal transmitted from the EM tool. The cable antenna may include a wireline cable having a center core, a polymeric insulative layer disposed about the center core, and an outer protective layer disposed about the polymeric insulative layer. The cable antenna also may include an electrical cable head having a housing, an electrical conductor in electrical communication with the center core of the wireline and extending through the housing, and a cable anchor attached to the outer protective layer and configured to secure the electrical cable head to the wireline cable. The housing may have a distal end having a spring-loaded contact. The cable antenna also may include an uninsulated signal receiver disposed at a distal-most end of the cable antenna and formed of a rigid, conductive material having a diameter of about 2 to about 12 inches. The uninsulated signal receiver may have a conductive outer surface exposed to engage against a natural subterranean formation when the cable antenna is disposed in borehole. The uninsulated signal receiver may be in direct electrical communication with the spring-loaded contact to provide uninterrupted electrical communication between the conductive outer surface and the electrical conductor of the electrical cable head.
- In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver has a teardrop shape forming a bulbous head. In some aspects, the uninsulated signal receiver comprises a threaded cavity formed therein for receiving a portion of the electrical cable head.
- In several exemplary embodiments, the elements and teachings of the various illustrative exemplary embodiments may be combined in whole or in part in some or all of the illustrative exemplary embodiments. In addition, one or more of the elements and teachings of the various illustrative exemplary embodiments may be omitted, at least in part, and/or combined, at least in part, with one or more of the other elements and teachings of the various illustrative embodiments.
- Any spatial references such as, for example, “upper,” “lower,” “above,” “below,” “between,” “bottom,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “angular,” “upwards,” “downwards,” “side-to-side,” “left-to-right,” “right-to-left,” “top-to-bottom,” “bottom-to-top,” “top,” “bottom,” “bottom-up,” “top-down,” etc., are for the purpose of illustration only and do not limit the specific orientation or location of the structure described above.
- In several exemplary embodiments, while different steps, processes, and procedures are described as appearing as distinct acts, one or more of the steps, one or more of the processes, and/or one or more of the procedures may also be performed in different orders, simultaneously and/or sequentially. In several exemplary embodiments, the steps, processes and/or procedures may be merged into one or more steps, processes and/or procedures.
- In several exemplary embodiments, one or more of the operational steps in each embodiment may be omitted. Moreover, in some instances, some features of the present disclosure may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features. Moreover, one or more of the above-described embodiments and/or variations may be combined in whole or in part with any one or more of the other above-described embodiments and/or variations.
- Although several exemplary embodiments have been described in detail above, the embodiments described are exemplary only and are not limiting, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many other modifications, changes and/or substitutions are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications, changes and/or substitutions are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the claims, any means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures.
- The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that a person of ordinary skill in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Such features may be replaced by any one of numerous equivalent alternatives, only some of which are disclosed herein. One of ordinary skill in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. One of ordinary skill in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
- The Abstract at the end of this disclosure is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
- Moreover, it is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6 for any limitations of any of the claims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly uses the word “means” together with an associated function.
Claims (20)
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RU2019102787A RU2019102787A (en) | 2018-02-02 | 2019-01-31 | BOREHOLE SIGNAL RECEIVER USED IN DRILLING |
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US15/887,607 US10385683B1 (en) | 2018-02-02 | 2018-02-02 | Deepset receiver for drilling application |
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Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN111335884A (en) * | 2020-03-04 | 2020-06-26 | 中国地质大学(武汉) | Bidirectional electromagnetic measurement while drilling signal transmission assisting method |
CN112228048A (en) * | 2020-09-29 | 2021-01-15 | 中铁大桥局集团有限公司 | Wireless communication method for drilling while-drilling instrument for bridge pile foundation |
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CN111335884A (en) * | 2020-03-04 | 2020-06-26 | 中国地质大学(武汉) | Bidirectional electromagnetic measurement while drilling signal transmission assisting method |
CN112228048A (en) * | 2020-09-29 | 2021-01-15 | 中铁大桥局集团有限公司 | Wireless communication method for drilling while-drilling instrument for bridge pile foundation |
Also Published As
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CA3031536A1 (en) | 2019-08-02 |
US10385683B1 (en) | 2019-08-20 |
RU2019102787A (en) | 2020-07-31 |
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