Professional Documents
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Training Curriculum
CRCM_175_revF_0705
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LWD I Operations
Course #175
Course Description:
This 6-day introductory level course prepares the field engineer to perform the duties
required of a “second man” on an LWD job. The course objectives require the student to
demonstrate competence in the use of the basic applications of the LWD Spectrum
software. Database management, tool communications, real-time detection, data
processing, and log plotting are covered. In addition to the software training, the course
provides hands-on instruction in the proper assembly, disassembly, and testing procedures
for a LWD Directional/Gamma/Resistivity toolstring. Written and practical assessments
will be performed during the course to measure the student’s understanding of the subject
matter.
NOTE: Some field experience with the LWD tools and Spectrum software is strongly
recommended prior to attending this course.
Course Outline:
Day One
Spectrum Software 8 hours
Spectrum Software Applications Demonstration and Practice
o Software Installation, RegFixer
o Starting a Database
Database Structure
Units Preference Select
Run Changer
o Well / Sensor Parameter Inputs
Tool Data Editor
o Database Interface
Mnemonic Viewer
Database Archive
Data Editor
LAS Export & LAS Interpolator
ASCII Import
Event Log Viewer
Image Import
Time/Depth Editor
CROL_175_revE_0511
Day Two
Spectrum Software (continued) 8 hours
o Data Plotting and Reporting
TVD Calculator
Survey Report
AESI Reports
• Daily, Bit Run, Failure
Battery and Pulser Usage Logs, Pipe Tally, Tool Build Sheets
Data Plotting
• Creating and Modifying Log Templates
• PDF Composite
• Log Printing Options
Day Three
Spectrum Software (continued) 8 hours
o Real-time Data and Sensor Interface
Run User Interface
• Real-time Detection
• Real-time Data Recording and Playback
• Surface Sensor Calibration Interface (with barrier box)
Real-time Table
Rig Floor Display
AZD Rig Floor Display
RST Rig Floor Display
Vibration Rig Floor Display
WITS IN / WITS OUT / WITS PASON
Units Conversion
Pressure Drop
Air Hang Report
Seelog
Geodec / County Lookup
Day Four
Spectrum Software (continued) 8 hours
o Tool Communications
Tool I/O
Tool Communications (all components)
• General
• Operating Parameters
• Memory
• Test
• Diagnostics
Process for Initializing and Reading a Toolstring
CROL_175_revE_0511
Day Five
Spectrum Software Applications Assessment 4 hours
Each student will demonstrate competence in the required Spectrum applications by
successfully completing the following practical exercises:
o Restore and save a database
o Generate a hardcopy log plot as per specification
o Create a new job
o Verify data in the Tool Data Editor
o Generate a hardcopy survey report
o Achieve detection and real-time data processing from specified playback file
o Generate an actively updating real-time log on screen as per specification
o Display an actively updating RT Display and RT Table
o Export specified data from the log plot to a LAS file
o Import specified data from an ASCII file into the database
Day Six
Toolstring Assembly Procedures and Testing Practical Assessment 8 hours
Each student will demonstrate competence in the required Spectrum applications by
successfully completing the following practical exercises:
o Interconnect / Extension Compression Calculation and Verification
o Buffer stack computations
o Toolface Offset Determination
o Insert insertion / removal
o Pulser Orifice Changeout
o Surface to Tool Communication Configuration
o Complete Toolstring Testing
CROL_175_revE_0511
CROL_175_revE_0511
Field Instruction
Section 2
SURFACE RIG UP
Version 2
© 2002 Contents of this document are proprietary to Computalog Drilling Services and may not be Page 1 of 28
reproduced or otherwise used in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission of Computalog.
COMPUTALOG DRILLING SERVICES Field Instruction
Surface Rig Up FI0002 Rev. A
Revision History
CONTENTS
8.0 Checklists 25
8.1 Unit Rig-Up Checklist ……………………………………………………….…….………….. 25
8.2 Sensor Rig-Up Checklist ……………………………………………………………………… 26
8.3 Cabling Rig-Up Checklist …………………………………………………………………….. 26
8.4 Tool Preparation Checklist …………………………………………………………………… 27
9.0 Troubleshooting 28
When spotting a Logging Unit at the rig site try to avoid hazardous zones. Every rig will be divided into
areas of relative hazard from gaseous mixtures. The zone classification will vary from country to country.
A typical classification for rig floor proximity is as follows:
RIG
FLOOR
25’
Zone 1
Zone 2
Depending on the zone, different safety regulations apply as to the equipment able to be used in that
area. Intrinsically Safe devices (IS) require a small amount of power. Their design includes the use of
certified manufacturing, correct cabling and safety barriers which limits the voltage, current and power
and ensures the amount of energy in normal use and in every possible fault condition is too low to ignite a
gas air mixture. These devices can be rigged up, with only a few precautions, in hazardous areas. This
makes for a relatively cheap and flexible system. Explosion proof devices require or contain higher
power. These devices can contain an explosion within them and any flames have to travel through long,
narrow flanges to the outside. This means the device will not break or eject a flame if an internal
explosion occurs and thus prevents any gaseous mixture surrounding the device from igniting. Purged
devices are typically larger and require higher power. This device must be made from substantial
material but also has a continuous stream of clean air passed throughout the device. The stream of air
maintains a positive pressure inside the device, preventing gaseous mixtures from entering. Also,
contained within the device is a pressure and flow monitor that will shut the device down if the air supply
fails or the exhaust is blocked.
Close to the rotary table, near the shale shakers and machinery exhausts, or where the flow line meets
the header tank will always be the most dangerous. The pipe deck is less likely to be hazardous
however, it may be depending on operations and wind direction. Also, try to avoid areas of high traffic
and activity. If working offshore, consider the overhead crane. If possible, do not place the Logging Unit
such that you will have to enter and exit under suspended loads. It is good to have the door facing away
from sources of potential explosions such as the BOPs. Consider the prevailing wind, when the wind is
blowing at 60 knots it becomes very difficult to close or open the door if the unit has been sited
incorrectly. Also consider noise, such as the generator room and welders area.
Before power is distributed to the transformer and then on to the electrical outlets in the Logging Unit, the
unit must be safe from gas. If the Logging Unit has been placed in a hazardous location it must be
purged as described above. This is done by pressurizing the unit with a blower fan, sucking in air from a
safe zone on the rig. The extra pressure is very low but it is enough to allow a positive flow of air through
the Logging Unit flushing any hazardous gas out before allowing power to be switched on.
Step 1 – Run the inlet (suction) hose to a safe zone. Beware of exhausts, shakers, and work/high traffic
areas.
Step 3 – Turn the pressurization fans on (usually on the roof of the Logging Unit).
Step 4 – Inside the Logging Unit, turn “On” the primary fan (light will turn green).
Step 7 – Outside the Logging Unit, cycle the power through the breaker.
The Logging Unit should now be purged. With the Alarm System operational, if the differential
pressure inside the Unit is lost an alarm will sound. After 20 seconds of continuous differential pressure
loss, the breaker will trip and the Unit will lose power.
The safety barrier consist of three main parts which ensure intrinsic safety is achieved. A fuse limits the
maximum current flowing through the diodes. Resistance limits current entering hazardous areas. A
Zener diode limits the voltage between the ground and the signal lines.
A zener barrier is not sufficient to make something intrinsically safe. An intrinsically safe sensor involves
all of the components in the hazardous area (sensor, cable, junction box). In all cases the intrinsically
safe barriers and equipment must be wired per an approved drawing. Capacitance and inductance of the
wiring and capes must be included in the loop evaluation. All cables have a self-capacitance and
inductance and are therefore likely to store energy. However, certified cables which do not store energy
and then release it as a burst must be used for intrinsically safe systems.
Operation of the UCS is very simple. The Sensor Pigtails are connected directly into the various Surface
Sensors. They mate to either the 25’, the 75’, or the 150’ Sensor Cables which in turn connects to the 8-
Sensor Junction Boxes. Typical locations of the Junction Boxes are one on the rig floor and one near the
mud pumps. One UCS is sufficient to support an MWD/LWD job utilizing Hookload, Depth, Heave, up to
4 Pump Pressures, and up to 4 Pump Stroke Counters.
Sensor cables should be run along the rig cable trays and securely tie-wrapped with metal ties (this is in
case of fire as the plastic tie-wrap will melt and the cable may fall and could impede exit). Avoid running
the cables right next to large rig power cables or even your own Logging Unit power cables due to
electromagnetic interference.
To enter a pressurized room or pass through a bulkhead a cable needs to pass through a MCT (multi-
core transit) frame. This MCT frame is a series of fire resistant rubber blocks that come in various sizes
and are clamped around the cables. The rubber frames or blocks are then compressed resulting in a gas
tight seal.
Measurement:
A pump pressure sensor is designed to pick up the pressure fluctuations in the line pressure caused by
the MWD pulser and the static (pump) and absolute pressure on the standpipe. Pump pressure is
important for both drilling efficiency and safety. For drilling efficiency the hydraulics are optimized when a
certain pressure is exerted across the bit. It is important to monitor the circulating pressure at all times to
maintain the optimum performance. From a safety viewpoint, it is important that the pump pressure does
not exceed the pressure ratings of the surface equipment. Also, high pump pressure might lead to other
problems such as erosion of the bit or formation breakdown. Another surface pressure measurement,
casing pressure, utilizes a similar device. Casing pressure sensors are mounted on the choke manifold
and are used to monitor the annular pressure for well control.
Operation:
The pump pressure sensor is the transducer which detects mud pressure pulses on the standpipe
manifold or other lines in the rig’s circulating system. The sensor uses 4 mA to 20 mA on a 1 – 4 VDC
rand (uses Ohm’s Law) and delivers 1 – 4 VDC signal directly proportional to the pressure.
Specification:
Voltage Supplied to the Sensor 1 - 4 VDC
Signal Returned from the Sensor to the Barrier Box 4 – 20 mA
Signal Output from the Barrier Box 1 - 4 VDC
Installation:
A pump pressure sensor can be installed using a hydraulic quick-connect (snap-tight fitting) or a threaded
union. The threads must be wrapped with Teflon (PTFE) tape before installing. The ¼” thread which
mates to the pump pressure sensor is torqued to 50 ft-lbs. The areas of the pump pressure sensor to be
gripped for torque are the two flats on either side of the sensors body. Be sure to fill the sensor with
hydraulic oil and grease pack all of the bull plugs or unions before installing sensors. Install the threaded
end down to avoid settling solids build up.
Consult with the rig crew prior to installing a pump pressure sensor. Before installing, beware of trapped
pressure. A pressure head consists of a thick rubber diaphragm in a housing (bull plug) separating mud
from hydraulic fluid. The surface system pressure is transmitted through the diaphragm to the hydraulic
fluid. A quick-fit connection allows easy attachment and removal of the transducer to and from the bull
plug. Changes in standpipe pressure are transferred to the transducer which converts the pressure
changes to an electrical signal. When using hydraulic quick-connects (snap tight fightings) to fit your
pump pressure sensor to a pressure head, only attempt to connect the sensor when the pumps are off.
When using threaded unions, check the valve and make certain the standpipe has been drained before
removing the bullplug (I.e. the hydrostatic head of the mud column). The bull plug is attached or removed
from the manifold with the cooperation of the Driller or Toolpusher. If at all possible, use an existing bull
plug on the rig. If one is not available, verify the threads of the unions are the correct type (example:
Wedco 1502) an it is rated to the maximum pressure. Whenever possible, place the sensor behind a
valve on the standpipe manifold. As always, keep the sensor away from tongs and traffic.
Wire Rope
Wrap
Angle
W
F = 2T * Sin (W/2)
Measurement:
On the rig, the tension on the drill line is directly proportional to the load on the traveling block. When the
block is holding the Kelly, drill pipe and BHA the tension or load equals the weight of all those items (less
the borehole friction and mud buoyancy). With this sensor it is possible to measure the surface drillstring
weight independent of the rig deadline load cell. Then, when the total hookload is known, changes in the
string weight can be used to calculate the WOB for drilling optimization. Also, drillstring weight can be
used for the “in/out of” slips logic applied to the AESIDev depth tracking system. Additionally, hookload
can be used to measure swab/surge while tripping and the over-pull for “sticking/stuck” pipe situations.
Operation:
The Clamp Line Tensionmeter clamps directly onto the deadline. The signal is linearly proportional to
single-line tension.
Specification:
Voltage Supplied to the Sensor +24 VDC
Signal Returned from the Sensor to the Barrier Box 4-20 mA
Signal Output from the Barrier Box 2-10 VDC
Installation:
The Clamp Line Tensionmeter is placed on the deadline, it should be located in a place which is easily
accessible as it needs to be removed when the rig “slips and cuts” the drilling line. The clamp should be
tightened until the rope touches the body of the sensor. Whenever it is removed then replaced a
calibration must be performed.
Measurement:
Another type of hookload sensor commonly used is the hookload transducer.
Operation:
This transducer is identical to the pump pressure transducer w/ one exception. The hookload transducer
uses 4 mA to 20 mA on a 1 – 4 VDC and (uses Ohm’s Law) and delivers 1 – 4 VDC signal directly
proportional to the pressure.
Specification:
See Pump Pressure Transducer.
Installation:
The hookload transducer is installed using a quick-fit connection on the deadline. A quick-fit connection
allows easy attachment and removal of the transducer. Changes in hookload are transferred to the
transducer which then converts the changes to an electrical signal. When using hydraulic quick-connects
to fit your hookload sensor to the deadline, only attempt to connect the sensor when there is no weight in
the blocks or the rig is in-slips.
Measurement:
If the pump output per stroke is known (discharge) and the strokes per minute can be measured, the
volumetric output in gallons per minute (gpm) can be calculated.
Volumetric Output per Minute = Strokes per Minute * Pump Output per Stroke
The pumps output per stroke is a function of the liner size and the number of pistons acting (duplex or
triplex).
Also for pump harmonic cancellation, the frequency of the pump noise and its harmonics are calculated
using the stroke rate as follows:
Additionally, pump stroke counters enable us to calculate circulating and bit hydraulic efficiency in
realtime. Washout detection is also possible when used in conjunction with turbine RPM and surface
pump pressure.
Operation:
The pump stroke counter consists of a mechanically actuated microswitch housed in a steel box mounted
on a 5-inch “C” clamp. This is then connected to a long aluminum rod outside the housing by a series of
plungers. The microswitch assembly can be set up to allow the plunger to depress in only one direction
of travel of the switch arm or in both directions. Make sure you are familiar with the method to change
back and forth.
Specification:
Voltage Supplied to the Sensor +12 VDC
Signal Returned from the Sensor to the Barrier Box 0-12 VDC
Signal Output from the Barrier Box 0-6 VDC
Installation:
The pump stroke counters (you will need to rig up as many as there are rig pumps to monitor) are fitted to
the frame of the pump with a “C” clamp and positioned so that the pump piston will operate the pump
stroke arm once per cycle. You should avoid close proximity to other pump stroke counters as the arms
may hinder each other. The cables from the stroke counters should be installed out of walkways and
allow for access to the pumps as repairs to pumps often require movement of heavy components.
Measurement:
The rotation of the draw-works can be related to the height of the traveling block then coupled with “in/out
of slips” logic to determine and track the bit depth.
Operation:
The Draw-works Depth Encoder connects directly into the shaft of the draw-works and measures the
movement (rotation) of the shaft. Two square wave signals are generated 90 degrees out of phase. This
relationship determines the direction of travel.
Specification:
Voltage Supplied to the Sensor +12 VDC
Signal Returned from the Sensor to the Barrier Box Signal 1 -4 to +5 VDC
Signal 2 -4 to +5 VDC
Signal Output from the Barrier Box Signal 1 -4 to +5 VDC
Signal 2 -4 to +5 VDC
Installation:
The Depth Encoder is installed in-line with the end of the draw works. First, select an encoder shaft that
is the right size for the air line and the rotary seal on the rig. The encoder shafts are available in three
© 2002 Contents of this document are proprietary to Page 17 of 28
Computalog Drilling Services and may not be reproduced
or otherwise used in any manner whatsoever without prior
written permission of Computalog.
COMPUTALOG DRILLING SERVICES Field Instruction
Surface Rig Up FI0002 Rev. A
thread sizes: 1”, 5/8”, and 3/8”. Additional adaptors will be machined if the rig is known to require a
different connection type.
The Depth Encoder placement is specific to the direction of the Draw-works line and the available space.
In other words, the Depth Encoder will be placed either to the right or the left of the spool, with the Blue
Ring facing towards to away from the Draw-works.
Prior to starting installation, make sure the Driller knows you need to remove the air line. Depending on
the rig’s policies, the rig mechanic may also be required to assist in the installation.
Next, using a crescent wrench, disconnect the air line hose from the Draw-works shaft as shown:
Clean and wrap each thread with Teflon tape. Then screw the encoder shaft into the Draw-works shaft.
Hand-tighten the shaft, being careful not to over torque the thread.
Slide the Depth Encoder body over the Encoder shaft in the appropriate direction.
Secure the Depth Encoder body to the shaft using the two screws through the Blue Ring.
Once installed, the body of the Depth Encoder must be secured with tie-wraps such that it cannot slip or
turn.
Troubleshooting:
If depth tracks in the opposite direction (the block is physically moving up but Spectrum shows it to be
going down), verify that the barrier box is wired correctly as shown below:
Pumps Stroke Counters work on A and B input from the sensor to the
barrier then to the D1OX slots on the Instrunet box.
A 250 ohm resistor must be present on the box for the transducers to
work.
CH 16 & 17 Depth #1
CH 19 & 20 Depth #2
CH 22 & 23 Depth #3
Zero the counts (point the voltage to -4 volts) when the blocks are at the
table by pressing the button next to the barrier.
There are a number of easily accessible points on the barrier box where voltage can be checked.
First is the hazardous side of the zener barriers, this allows you to test power to the sensor and the
barrier at the same time and should be your first test. The safe side of the barriers is also a check point.
The bottom of the sensor boards can be tested for voltage going to the zeners and it is possible to check
the top of the sensor boards for voltage going to the computers as all analog sensors are sent to
acquisition as voltages.
Before plugging into the outlet, use a multi-meter and verify the voltage output (respectively 480
VAC or 240 VAC, single phase). Shut off the breaker switch to stop voltage to the outlet and
insert the plug into the outlet. NEVER PLUG INTO A LIVE OUTLET!!!! Once the plug is secured
in the outlet, turn the breaker switch back on.
• Verify the values displayed by the voltage gauges in the unit (allowable variance of +/- 10%) with
the applicable row in following table. Do not come in contact with or enter the unit to do this.
The main voltage (V) is the voltage of the power being supplied by the rig. The frequency must
be 60 Hz in all cases. Note: Some units require the main power switch of the unit to be on for
this test. If this is the case, use a non-conductive object to lift the switch handle to the on
position.
Main Voltage (V) Line Voltage (A) Line Voltage (B)
480 277 277
240 140 140
• If all of the gauges display values within tolerances, then turn off the main power switch of the
unit. Enter the unit and set the transfer switch to the correct position (240 or 480 V). If the values
are not within tolerances, check the wiring with the rig electrician. In all cases of doubt, contact
the on-call LWD Coordinator.
• Turn on the intrinsically safe breaker switch.
• Power up the Logging Unit.
Turn on all the switches in the breaker box located in the interior of the Logging Unit. Turn on the
lights. Turn on the UPS. If applicable, PURGE!!!
• Using a multi-meter, verify that the voltages from the interior electrical outlets are 120 VAC.
• Start up computers.
Run your cables in protected areas when possible such as cable trays, or use what is available to
protect your cables.
• Strain Relief connections, route and terminate cables as to remove stress on the sensors and
electrical connections.
When running cables keep the stress off of the connection points. Use cable ties or other
products to secure the cables and remove stress off of the connectors and points where the cable
might need to “Flex”. Adding slack and stress loops will avoid long term problems.
• Connect the UCS cables connectors, be sure they are kept dry before connection and are fully
mated.
To keep the connectors dry while running cables leave the dust caps on the connectors, try not to
let them drop into water while running, and shield them from water when removing the dust caps
and mating. On a properly mated connector, the locking ring of the female connector should
cover the red strip on the outer cylinder of the male connector. At this point the connectors are
fully sealed and should withstand normal rig activities.
• Connect the USC cable dust caps at each mating point, this will keep them dry for Rig-down.
One the connectors are properly connected, mate the male dust cap with the female dust cap.
This will keep them clean and dry for rig-down, and also keep them out of the way during other
activities.
• Rig-up the driller’s rig floor display.
Collaborate with the driller on placement of the rig floor display. Try to keep the screen out of
harms way and easily accessible.
• Run a communications cable from the unit to the rig floor display.
The communications cable can either be fiber-optic or copper. The fiber-optic cable offers a
higher transmission rate but be careful in the handling as it is rather fragile.
• Run a power cable to the rig floor display.
Typically, the power will be supplied from the Logging Unit. However, some land rigs or purged
driller’s shacks will allow you to power the rig floor display from an outlet on the rig floor (make
sure the voltage source is 120 VAC). If this is the case, you may need to rig up an additional wire
which grounds the display to whatever it is suspended from.
Once the surface equipment has been rigged up, both the primary and the secondary LWD/MWD
tools must be tested and programmed prior to running in the hole. If something doesn’t check
out, call the LWD coordinator IMMEDIATELY.
• Discuss the non-magnetic spacing requirements for the next run with the directional driller.
9.0 Troubleshooting
A multi-meter is critical for troubleshooting. The sensor calibration screen in Run UI can also be a
powerful tool. It displays voltages and is a good first indicator of a problem. Check items inside the
Logging Unit first and then make your way out to the sensor. Remember the sensors are installed and it
would be a waste of effort to rig down an awkwardly positioned sensor only to find that there was no
power being supplied to it or that the sensor cable was connected to the wrong position of the junction
box.
Section 13
OPERATIONS
Version 1
© 2002 Contents of this document are proprietary to Computalog Drilling Services and may not be Page 1 of 17
reproduced or otherwise used in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission of Computalog.
COMPUTALOG DRILLING SERVICES Field Instruction
Operations FI0013 Rev. A
Revision History
CONTENTS
7.0 Troubleshooting 17
Prior to going to the job, information should be obtained about the levels of service(s) to be provided,
from the Operations Co-ordinator (pre job briefing). In addition, any other pertinent data required
should be obtained at this time, and any technical requirements specific to the service(s) run.
Before starting any well, hole section or new LWD service, discuss the client’s and your perception of
the service to be provided and the rig up requirements. Determine whether the service is for general
correlation, casing or coring point determination, wireline log supplementation or replacement or
geosteering. Obtain, where possible, offset logs for correlation. Discuss the log formats and the
client’s requirement for notification of events or markers seen in the well. Make an inquiry regarding
the expected mud weight, flow rate, mud properties (plastic viscosity, yield point, lost circulation
material additions, etc.). Communicate any unforeseen difficulties or customer requirements with the
LWD Coordinator at the earliest opportunity.
Summary:
The LWD Engineers should insure that equipment is set up and located in such a manner as to
minimize interference to normal rig operations. Check the tubulars as soon as possible. Verify the
quantities, sizes, thread types, crossover lengths, OD, ID, interconnect tolerances, spacer
compression, senor offsets, motor magnetism, ect. At this time any malfunctioning items should be
reported to the LWD Coordinator and necessary replacement items ordered. The damaged
equipment should then be “RED” tagged and listed on the LWD Failure Report.
It is the LWD Engineer’s responsibility to ensure that all LWD related components needed are on the
wellsite and in the drill string.
The Directional Driller and rig crew drillers should be briefed relative to normal operating procedures
when obtaining surveys and actually running equipment into the hole. Attention should be paid to
ensuring proper pickup and insertion of our downhole system and placement of rig floor equipment.
All LWD Engineers are required to be on the floor when picking up the LWD tools, testing the tool
string, and picking up the monels. This is to be done every time the tools are at surface, for any
reason (bit, motor change, etc.).
Reviews should be made relative to the pump types and flow requirements, mud properties and
general drilling parameters to be encountered considering the anticipated drilling procedures. LWD
Engineers should insure that proper programming of equipment has been done according to their
operating environments.
All tools must be tested upon arrival to the rig site to ensure they are in good working order. This
means backup tools as well as primary tools.
Carry out the standard surface rotation tests on the HEL tool at 90 degrees. Ensure that all
magnetometer and accelerometer voltages are correct and make sense. If possible, change the tool
angle to have an inclination less than 90 degrees, or just set one end of the tool on the ground. Re-
perform the standard rotation tests and check that the “Z” accelerometer is not the same as above;
changes accordingly and is not zero. After passing the test, make screen captures of the raw data for
posterity’s sake.
The Tool Face Offset is an external (drill collar) offset and must be measured clockwise, looking
downward toward the bit from the HEL tool scribeline to the mud motor scribeline. This is one of the
most important measurements that the LWD Engineer makes and MUST be done correctly. All other
work and activity performed by the LWD Engineer means naught if the well must be plugged back
with cement because of an incorrect TFO calculation (or the correct TFO not being entered into the
Spectrum software). Ensure that the TFO calculation is correct, entered into Spectrum
correctly and verified by the Directional Driller.
1. Measure in a clockwise direction the distance from the HEL tool’s high side scribe to the
motor high side scribe. Record this length into the TFO work sheet as the TFO distance. In
the following example, this value is 351 mm.
2. Measure the circumference of the tubular at the same location where the TFO distance is
being measured. Record this length into the TFO work sheet as the Circumference of Collar.
3. Calculate the TFO angle using the following formula:
TFO Dis tan ce
TFO Angle = ∗ 360
Collar Circumference
From the above example, if the collar circumference is 500 mm,
351
TFO Angle = ∗ 360 = 0.702 ∗ 360 = 252.72o
500
A sample form is as follows:
All interconnect, crossover subs, and any other LWD tubulars must have their I.D., O.D., and length
measured and recorded prior to use. The make-up torque specifications for all the connections must
be calculated prior to running-in the hole. Verify these torque specifications with the Driller and the
Directional Driller. Refer to the individual tool’s LWD Collar Torque Specification table.
Make arrangements with the rig personnel to bring the LWD tools, handling equipment and crossover
sub(s) up to the drill floor prior to use. This will reduce the time used to assemble the tubulars.
A float should be run below the tool to prevent accidental unseating of the tool while running in the
hole.
Surface pipe screens should be used every time fluid is being circulated to prevent rig trash and
debris from passing through our tool string. Pipe screens are fitted with pipe screen rings of various
sizes to adapt them to fit a particular size of drill pipe (tool joint thread). Currently, there are two sizes
of pipe screens and three sizes of pipe screen rings that are being employed:
1. Inspect the pipe screen to be assembled for erosion (wash) or other physical damage.
Note: If the pipe screen is damaged, attach a RED tag detailing the nature of the
damage to the pipe screen and return it to the shop. Remove the spear point and pipe
screen ring from the damaged pipe screen. Place the spear point and pipe screen ring
in the LWD Consumables cabinet.
2. Obtain the required size of pipe screen ring from inventory to match the tool joint thread
type.
3. Install 2 O-rings (#034 or #040 for the small and large screens respectively) on the pipe
screen.
4. Install the correct pipe screen ring and seat it on top of the O-rings. Ensure that the tool
pin holes in the pipe screen ring align with the holes in the pipe screen.
5. Install 3 #026 tool pins to secure the ring to the pipe screen. Use a punch to drive the
tool pins flush with the outer surface of the ring.
6. Install and secure the pipe screen spear point (pipe screen handle) using a crescent
wrench. If available, use blue (#242) Loctite on the spear point threads.
The objective of the Shallow Pulse Test is to ensure that the entire tool string is functioning (pulsing)
and transmitting valid data (i.e. survey and all LWD sensors). Ideally the tool string will be tested as
close to surface as possible or just below the casing shoe. Both LWD Engineers should be on tower
during the shallow pulse test (this is particularly important on the first run or on a new well or hole
section).
Basic Steps:
1. Make sure the dill pipe screen is installed for the test.
2. Break circulation at 10-20 strokes per minute (or at pump idle) until returns are observed over
the shakers.
3. Bring the pumps up to full drilling rate for 30 seconds.
4. Shut the pumps down for one minute (for the HEL tool to take a survey).
5. Bring the pumps back up to full drilling rate.
6 Establish detection and receive a survey and at least one good data value from each sensor
in the tool string.
7 As soon as the test is confirmed to be good, advise the drilling to shut down the pumps and
continue running in the hole.
Remember that this test takes rig time so it is imperative that you are as efficient as possible and only
take the time necessary to complete it.
If it is apparent that there are no discernible pulses there may be other factors apart from a hard
failure that are causing the problem. It is imperative that you ensure there are no possible external
“rig” factors going on that may be a contributing factor to the test. Make sure you are fully aware of
what is going on around you on the rig and that you check for issues such as the following:
9 Check the charge on the pulsation dampeners. They should be charged to ~40% of the
standpipe pressure. Make sure they are charged by checking the gauge when the pumps
are on and when the pumps are off.
9 Check for any irregularities in the drilling fluid such as air in the mud or any additives that may
be affecting the signal.
9 Check pumps for excessive noise and make sure it is not sucking air from somewhere.
9 Check to make sure that the surface plumbing route from the pumps to the standpipe is
correct and that no valves are opened or partially open that shouldn’t be. A partially open
valve will result in signal problems. If you have any doubts about this talk to the driller to
make sure this has been done. This is typically seen on the first run or on a new well or new
hole section.
9 Check that the pump rate and the standpipe pressure is what you require for the test.
9 Monitor how the pumps are being engaged (bringing them up too fast, too slow).
9 Check the surface transducer (frozen etc.), cables, electrical connections, etc. You MUST
have pump stroke counters rigged up.
9 Never pull out of the hole for a “failed to pulse” scenario unless both pumps have been used
on the hole.
9 Vary the pump rates higher/lower than desired, and try resetting the tools with a pump
sequence.
If you are unsure about any of these points talk to your coordinator for clarification. It is imperative
that we do no incur any unnecessary failures such as the Shallow Pulse Test, so make sure you are
especially vigilant and certain no GOOD tools are pulled because you missed something on surface.
Note: Removing and laying down the LWD tools in most respects is the reverse of the procedure
used picking up the tools.
9 Wash out the tools at the end of each run or when connection is free to ensure the top of the
pulser end cap is flushed to the bore of the tool for easy removal of pulser insert and to flush
out drilling fluids which may enter the electrical connectors of the driver insert and or battery
inserts.
9 Ensure after each run that the BAP ports are fully flushed with water preferably high pressure
water to ensure transducers are not plugged off with dried or packed drilling fluids.
9 Inspect the outside diameter of the tools to ensure no damage is seen to the wear bands,
subs, stabilizers, and MFR antennas that may affect the operation or reliability of the tools.
9 Ensure thread protectors are installed on the tools when received, when picking up to the rig
floor or laying out tools, and when the tools are loaded out to ship back to the operations
base. If tools are received at location with out thread protectors notify the field coordinator or
LWD supervisor immediately.
9 Ensure interconnect plugs are installed when received, picking up to the rig floor, laying out
from the rig floor, used as a back up, and shipping back to base or other location to protect
the IDS / Interconnect, and electrical connection from damage. Ensure adapters have the
protective cap installed to protect it from damage and contamination.
9 Ensure pulser inserts and end cap are pulled after each run or when laid down to clean,
inspect o-rings, back up rings, pulser body, orifice, and reinstall if in good working condition.
9 Ensure interconnects and adapter tips are cleaned and greased with DC-111 after each run
or when disassembled on the rig floor. Inspect interconnects and adapter tips for wear or
tearing of the electronic and metal connecting components. Measure for proper compression
after each break of the connection to ensure proper communication is kept between the tools.
9 Tools are to be tested when laid out to ensure they are still in good working order. Any tools
or components not working must have a failure report and be transported back to base for
repair with another back up shipped for the rig as soon as possible. Ensure EDP plug, probe,
and ports are cleaned and maintained.
9 Any insert removed from the tool and replaced into another tool must be identified on the
build sheet of the tool for proper tracking of the insert.
The requirement to produce log replays at the client’s request must be met by ensuring that the
database is edited and kept current. Prior to the completion of a tour, archiving and editing of data
obtained during the tour must be performed. You are responsible as an LWD Engineer for
periodically evaluating the data quality of your logs. Generate a quantitative log and inspect the
curves for areas that might suggest a compromise in quality.
If looking for a marker bed for casing shoe or coring point selection, inform the Client geologist /
representative immediately on validation of data. Ensure that the surface system is crewed at all
times while waiting for such a marker. If areas of poor data quality or density are detected, notify the
office and the client immediately. Under these circumstances the client must be given the opportunity
to recover either lost or poorly recorded data. This applies both in real-time and to memory data.
Ensure that the telemetry sequence selected for each particular run is suitable and if possible, the
optimum compromise between directional and logging requirements. When in doubt, contact the
LWD Coordinator for suggestions and validation. The LWD Engineer is responsible for endeavoring
to maximize data recovery while drilling. The following topics should ideally be discussed with the
Client representative / geologist before the LWD service commences, in order to establish a policy to
implement when problems occur. This will remove potential delays and misunderstandings regarding
drilling operations and LWD data recovery.
4.1 Decoding
Ensure that surface decoding filters are manipulated to maintain optimum decoding. If decoding
problems result in missing data, consult the Client representative and / or geologist immediately with
the aim of immediately re-logging to obtain the missing data. You must be able to discriminate
between a poor and un-decodable signal and a noisy signal channel with no tool transmission.
NOTE: Where memory services are being run, it is possible that the real-time log may be the
only one you will get (eg. memory failure, lost in hole, etc.).
Discuss the real-time and memory update rates for the various parameters and related sensor bed
resolutions with the client representative / geologist. Discuss a minimum data density requirement
and therefore the maximum permissible instantaneous ROP or reaming speed.
A two data points per foot memory data density is considered a minimum requirement. Take into
consideration the following minimum sensor memory update rates when setting memory and
telemetry rates.
20.00
18.00
16.00
14.00
Data Density (Points/ft)
12.00
10.00
8.00
6.00
4.00
2.00
0.00
30 60 90 120 150 180 210 240 270 300 330 360
5 Sec Update pt/ft 24.00 12.00 8.00 6.00 4.80 4.00 3.43 3.00 2.67 2.40 2.18 2.00
10 Sec Update pt/ft 12.00 6.00 4.00 3.00 2.40 2.00 1.71 1.50 1.33 1.20 1.09 1.00
30 Sec Update pt/ft 4.00 2.00 1.33 1.00 0.80 0.67 0.57 0.50 0.44 0.40 0.36 0.33
Rate of Penetration
Any potential decrease in data density below two data points per foot must be discussed
with the client geologist / representative and the relevant LWD Operations Coordinator.
Also the projected length of run should be discussed, so that memory update rates can be
selected to avoid memory fill before end of run.
The accuracy of our sensor measurements is irrelevant if we cannot tie that measurement to a depth
with certainty. Thus, depth tracking is of critical importance in the provision of a Formation Evaluation
LWD Service.
Depth accuracy must be maintained to within +/- 1 ft (0.3m) of driller’s pipe tally.
Any divergence from the driller’s pipe tally outside this tolerance must be corrected for. It is your
responsibility to check the driller’s tally arithmetic and discuss and clarify any errors in the tally.
Note: Tidal compensation is not currently applied, but heave compensation is possible when the
surface sensor has been correctly installed .
Bit to sensor offsets must be measured and accurately entered in Spectrum. Do not rely on default
offsets from existing literature or memos.
Confirm with the driller his actual depth when reported to be ‘tagging bottom’. Regularly check
surface sensor condition, particularly the depth system, for line slippage, wear on the depth line and
sheaves and airline retriever operation. Check the kelly / top drive height calibration regularly at kelly
down position or when tool joints are passing the rotary table.
Depth tracking and data archiving must be maintained at all times when an LWD tool is in the hole
and the pumps are running.
It is important to inform the driller before attempting any adjustments to the depth system. Several
field engineers have been seriously injured attempting to adjust the geolograph line while it was still
attached to the top drive system.
SAFETY WARNING: If the geolograph wire is to be adjusted while still attached to the top drive, then
this must be done ONLY when the driller has agreed not to move the pipe until you are clear of the
geolograph wire.
If depth tracking problems are encountered, when using the geolograph depth system check that the
depth line has not come off the sensor, the retaining screws have not broken, and the depth line has
not snagged or broken. If the problem is not immediately correctable, continue to log using an
assumed ROP while expediting repair. Where an assumed ROP is not possible then the data can be
recovered by interpolation after correcting the depth system problem.
Inform the client representative / geologist of the nature of the problem and of the steps being taken
to work around and eliminate it. Have the driller mark the kelly or stand at 5’ intervals and notify you
when the bit changes from on or off bottom and when a depth increment has been cut. Liaise with
the mud logging unit or Pason, where possible, to cross-check and obtain time and depth information.
Select and adjust assumed ROP to as close to actual ROP as possible. Keep a written record of
Time vs. Depth for later interpolation once depth tracking has been regained. It is often possible to
obtain an Ascii file of time v depth from the surface mud logging crew.
Calibrate standpipe pressure at least once per hole section where possible.
Check weight on bit directly, or indirectly via string weight and adjust as necessary every stand.
When sliding / rotating do not adjust the WOB.
Note: In horizontal well operations, string weight may decrease with depth as heavyweight drillpipe is
displaced around the curve. In such cases, try “Disable In-Slips while on bottom” or “Disable In-Slips
while Pumping”.
4.5 Surveying
For the HEL tool to be able to take a good survey, it is imperative that the tool string be completely
motionless during the time it activates the accelerometers and magnetometers to acquire survey
data. To achieve this in practice on the drilling rig:
1. Ensure that the HEL tool has been initialized prior to RIH with an adequate survey delay
threshold.
2. Ensure that the mud pump on the rig has been circulating drilling fluid for at least one minute.
The drill string may be moved to the desired survey depth during this time.
2. Cease all motion in the drill string. Turn off the mud pump for at least one full minute. The
LWD tool will store a survey during this time (according to the survey delay threshold setting).
3. Instruct the driller to turn on the mud pump up to the desired flow rate as quickly as possible.
Ensure that the Driller does not adjust the pump controls once a steady-state standpipe
pressure has been reached. Note: Steps (1) to (3) are commonly known as, “Cycling the
pumps” in field operations.
4. Monitor the progress of the survey as it is being pumped up for any pulse or pump pressure
irregularities that may indicate pulser or rig problems, respectively.
5. Upon receipt of the survey, compare the integrity and raw survey values against the theoretical
values obtained from GeoDec for each well location. If there are any status errors, the
integrity values are not within acceptable tolerances, or if the survey values appear to be
questionable, repeat steps (1) to (5) inclusive. If magnetic interference is observed, inform
the on-call LWD Coordinator. If the survey is within limits accept the survey and input the
corresponding sensor depth.
Discuss with the Client representative / geologist the requirement for repeat logging sections. In
order to establish repeatability it is important to relog a zone where the log response is not in
question, in addition to re-logging the questionable zone. Obtain agreement with the client
representative / geologist as to the start and end depths for reaming / back-reaming. Before
commencing, check with the driller for any potential depth discrepancies such as BHA length changes
or singles laid out between runs. Explain potential depth differences between drilling, reaming and
back-reaming due to pipe squat and change in pipe velocity and direction.
Note: Logging data is depth tagged to the moment that the word was decoded or stored, rather than
when it was measured by the sensor. This will make some difference with high pipe velocities in
© 2002 Contents of this document are proprietary to Page 14 of 17
Computalog Drilling Services and may not be reproduced
or otherwise used in any manner whatsoever without prior
written permission of Computalog.
COMPUTALOG DRILLING SERVICES Field Instruction
Operations FI0013 Rev. A
opposing directions, particularly to transmitted data. To maximize log recovery when reaming, it is
recommended that after making a connection and while the brake is on prior to starting reaming each
single or stand, instruct the driller to begin rotating the string at the same time as bringing the pumps
up to the reaming flow rate (aim to have the string rotating before the flow rate has stabilized).
Monitor the HEL tool signal - once the TID has been identified, (or for a transmitted log after the first
data word has decoded properly) immediately inform the driller that he can release the brake and
start reaming.
When backreaming, ensure a slight overlap in data by lowering the top drive past the lower pipe joint
before starting rotation and pumps after each connection. Do not move the pipe until the TID has
been seen, or for a transmitted log, until the first word has decoded properly.
It is important that the ROP on the log is the drilling / coring ROP unless reaming ROP is specifically
requested by the customer. This data can be obtained from the mud logging crew or Pason if depth
was not recorded during drilling / coring. In addition to this, the time between drilling / coring and
reaming should be noted on the log as this is useful when comparing invasion profiles on drilled and
reamed sections. A Remark on the depth interval reamed and the reaming ROP should be included
in the Remarks section. It is particularly important to record Rmf on reamed runs after coring a
reservoir section as this data can be used to calculate Rxo .
Where the opportunity arises, take advantage of overlapping sections of log to check data for
repeatability and depth control. Should an unexpected and unsubstantiated shift in log response
occur while drilling;
9 Check other log curves and drilling parameters (e.g. ROP, Torque or WOB).
9 Compare offset logs, where available.
9 Check for drilling fluid changes with the drilling fluids engineer.
If the anomalous log response cannot be explained then contact the LWD Coordinator. If re-logging a
section is deemed advantageous, then discuss this option with a Client representative, pick up off
bottom and obtain a repeat section. If necessary, pull back to a log section with a stable plateau, and
ream back to bottom to verify on-bottom readings. Should there be any evidence of on / off bottom
differentiation in the sensor response then contact the LWD Coordinator. Any relevant remarks
should be made on the real time log.
To obtain a reasonable real time log, it is sometimes necessary to edit the database. For down hole
parameters this can take the form of either deleting data decoded incorrectly or editing depth to
correct a depth problem. Data can be recalculated where changes to calibration constants are
required or changes to environmental factors.
Due to the statistical nature of the nuclear measurements (natural gamma ray, porosity and density) it
is often difficult to edit the data sensibly when decoding problems occur - use offset correlation logs to
© 2002 Contents of this document are proprietary to Page 15 of 17
Computalog Drilling Services and may not be reproduced
or otherwise used in any manner whatsoever without prior
written permission of Computalog.
COMPUTALOG DRILLING SERVICES Field Instruction
Operations FI0013 Rev. A
get a feel for what unusual formations are likely to be encountered, examine other more easily
diagnosed (e.g. Temperature) transmitted data for errors and most importantly consider the sensor
bed resolution (Also differs between the two gamma detector types) because rapid fluctuations in raw
data cannot occur within the bed resolution of a sensor.
Editing should be prudent - remove obviously erroneous data but it is preferred that you err on the
side of caution and leave questionable data in the database.
Nuclear measurements, including natural gamma ray, neutron porosity, compensated bulk density
and photoelectric effect are subject to random fluctuation. This gives rise to the term ‘statistical
repeatability’. For logging sensors, CDS quotes statistical repeatability to one standard deviation or
one sigma. This means that if repeat measurements are taken with the same sensor at one point in
the bore hole, then 65% of the sample will repeat within the stated tolerances. This means that
repeat passes may not correspond exactly but general trends will match. Therefore, smoothing is
applied to the data to remove this statistical variance in an attempt to obtain a repeatable log. In
principle, when manipulating data within surface software aim to avoid averaging data until the final
log output.
Raw depth based data should include every data point either in memory or transmitted to surface
against time. The spacing of data points is entirely dependant on update rate and logging speed and
is not regularly (level) spaced. If data is averaged, it should be on the minimum level spacing of 0.25
ft or 0.1 m. This is equivalent to our best resistivity sensor bed resolution. Do not be surprised if logs
derived from ASCII files differ from our own logs and from one another if made on different spacing
intervals.
Having confirmed with the Client that Ascii data is required, a file is produced using LAS Export. The
data should be exported using the same criteria (smoothing and data interval) as the final plotted
logs.
At the end of each run after the memory data has been processed, compare real-time and memory
logs side by side to evaluate the logs for depth and parameter shifts between the real-time and
memory data.
The real-time data should correspond with the memory data however, there are a number of reasons
why differences may occur;
9 Different data densities and smoothing intervals may affect curve shape(s).
9 Differences in time between surface and downhole clocks. This could be a systematic
difference (single offset - should be noted when dumping memory) or by variation of the
tool memory clock which would cause update rates to vary.
9 If after checking the above the discrepancy(s) cannot be accounted for and corrected call
the LWD Coordinator for advice.
Check for differences between tool clock and system clock when dumping tool memories.
Note: It is especially worthwhile to compare resistivity curves after relogging since invasion effects
can be identified very easily. This gives an indication of formation permeability.
7.0 Troubleshooting
Should equipment malfunctions occur, the LWD Engineer is expected to follow the published and/or
special troubleshooting procedures as outlined by the company. This will include appropriate
documentation (items “RED” tagged and listed on Failure Reports) for relevant items changed and/or
problems located. Incident Reports and Run Summaries should be faxed to the office immediately.
Documentation includes completion of all company prescribed documents including field data sheets,
job invoices, trip analysis and/or run repair/request, daily reports, failure reports, performance
evaluations for the equipment and personnel, computer print outs, loadout list and/or dispatch
checklist, and data disk. Special documentation may also be required regarding to experimental
and/or revised components being used on the job.
Each LWD crew is expected to maintain daily communication with the office staff. This will include
routine daily and run reports as well as, immediate contact when problem situations and/or specific
unusual customer request occur. Communications should be handled in such a manner as to insure
smooth overall operations for the LWD with respect to the customer’s application and needs. Phone
or E-Mail the LWD Coordinator when any incident, failure, or lost time incident occurs due to
malfunction.
Once the job has been completed, it is the LWD Engineer’s responsibility to insure that all LWD
equipment has been properly packaged for return to the dispatching facility. At this time, it is
mandatory that a review is made, by way of loadout sheet, of missing, damaged, or used
expendables. This will assist in the refurbishing operations once the equipment is at the base and will
also ensure that the customer is satisfied with the job and handling of any special requests at the
time. Fill out a waybill for ALL tools returning to the shop. Follow up should be initiated, relevant to
potential additional work with the customer.
Section 14
© 2002 Contents of this document are proprietary to Computalog Drilling Services and may not be Page 1 of 8
reproduced or otherwise used in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission of Computalog.
COMPUTALOG DRILLING SERVICES Field Instruction
Surface Rig Down & Demobilization FI0014 Rev. A
Revision History
CONTENTS
A. Restock Unit
1. Maintain proper inventories.
2. Coordinate transportation with company representative.
B. Restock Toolbox
1. Maintain proper inventories.
2. Coordinate transportation with company representative.
During the first working day after returning from the field, a detailed review will be made with the
coordinators on duty relevant to the overall job activities. At this time a review will be made
regarding the completion of necessary documentation. Special Problems and/or concerns will be
discussed at the this time.
Each portion of the documents will be reviewed at this time to insure that information is correct.
Necessary changes and modifications shall be made immediately. At this time, depending on the
particular job, additional special paperwork and/or reports may be required. As with other
documentation, this should be completed as soon as possible.
Distribution
3. US JOBS ONLY: Provide paper copies of the following documents to Brain Varco
(281.633.2743)
9 Legal Survey Plot w/ Surface Location
9 API Permit to Drill
9 Spectrum Survey Report (ASCII if available)
9 Directional Driller’s Survey Report
9 Signed LWD Survey Certification
Archives
1. A job file binder should be placed in the Training Room Archives. Each binder should
contain:
9 The oil company and well name with start and end date in the binder spine.
9 Job Dispatch Sheet
9 GeoDec Form
9 Copy of the Signed Job Ticket
9 Copy of the Final Logs
9 Copy of the legal survey plot w/ surface location to scale
9 Copy of the API Permit to Drill
9 Copy of the End of Well Report
9 Final Spectrum Survey Report
9 Final Directional Driller’s Survey Report
9 Any 3rd Party Survey Reports
9 All Daily Reports
9 All Mud Reports
9 All Run Summaries
9 All BHA Reports
9 All Failure Reports
9 All Toolface Offset Forms
9 All Tool Build Sheets
9 Complete Job Backup CD including final database backup
9 Any additional job/well information available (screen captures, ect.)
Once equipment has been returned to the local facility, the operators having completed the job
will be responsible for general cleaning of the unit or use on an additional job with 24 hours of its
arrival at base. Specific items to be handled are basically the same as the pre-job responsibility
and check out.
Each LWD Engineer is required to carry a means of contact 24 hours a day, wherever he/she is.
He/she shall be prepared to return a call within ½ hour from the time the message/page has been
sent. The above policy is in force 24 hours a day with no exceptions unless specified by the
supervisor on call.
Each LWD Engineer is responsible for training and evaluation of Trainees in accordance with
Computalog’s field policies while out on a job. This is to include but not limited to all of the duties
and responsibilities mentioned in the Operations Section. Each LWD Engineer who trains a
trainee will submit a performance evaluation sheet. This will be discussed with the LWD
Coordinator after the job.
When an engineer is between jobs, he/she will sometimes be required to assist various
personnel.
A. Dress Code
When on a job site, you should wear proper clothing for different weather conditions (i.e. Canada
– rubber boots, winter boots and leather boots, summer coveralls, winter coveralls, hard hat,
leather gloves).
Company coveralls must be worn on job sites at all times and should be clean. Employees and
consultants must wear proper clothing when working in the office.
Dirty boots, coveralls, etc. should be removed prior to entering the command center or any other
shack on location. Use common sense not to track mud around. Remember that other people
have to live in those shacks as well.
B. Work Hours
As employees, you are expected to report to the shop while in town. Your job requires that you
service equipment, learn about new, current and old equipment.
C. Prepare kits, and back up systems and tools for departure. Also confer with the on duty
coordinator if he/she needs any help.
All field engineers are paid a day rate. Working hours on location will vary according to the
related jobs and should be worked out between personnel on location. Senior engineers will
dictate how shifts will rotate but must bear in mine responsibility of early morning/daily reports.
This paperwork may have to be checked and handed in to the company representative or
geologist or our office prior to handing over the midnight shifts to a junior engineer or trainee.
Upon completion of the job, you must inform the coordinator on duty prior to leaving the location
as to your situation.
D. Departure Hours
Field engineers should be able to leave the shop within 3 hours of initial call. Prior to leaving
during after office hours, coordinators must be informed of departure time and progress.
E. If troubles en-route to job site occur, ie.: vehicle breakdown, sleep due to fatique, or any other
unforeseen problems, the coordinator, Company Representative, or other field engineers
pertinent to your job must be informed as to your situation.
Revision E (05//07)
Table of Contents
Description Page
1.0 Introduction 1
1.0 Introduction
This document is intended to be a practical guide for the field operator calibrating a draw works
sensor in conjunction with a barrier box and hook load sensor. This is the standard Spectrum ™
depth tracking configuration.
In all cases, this manual is not designed to replace rigorous training or field experience. It is not a
technical manual for Repair & Maintenance personnel servicing the barrier box or any associated
sensors.
It is strongly recommended that the operator read this document in its entirety prior to use.
For field operators, immediate technical support is obtained by contacting the district on-call
MWD/LWD Field Superintendent or MWD/LWD Co-ordinator.
If there are any issues, concerns, or suggestions regarding this document, please contact
Weatherford Technical Support (Drilling Service) or the author (Chuck Lee).
© 2006 WEATHERFORD, Inc. This document contains Company proprietary information. Page 1
Any reproduction or distribution in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
The Spectrum™ depth tracking system is the standard equipment to be used for tracking
measured (pipe) depth for the MWD/LWD product line. Alternative methods/depth tracking
equipment supplied by third parties may be used in lieu of the standard system but their accuracy
can not be confirmed.
The following is a list of the major components of the Spectrum™ depth tracking system:
(1) Drill Line Hookload Sensor Assembly C-0000-SEN-0001 OR Pressure Transducer, 1,000 psi
(Hookload) C-0000-TRA-0001
(1) Instrunet PCI Interface Card C-0000-NET-0005 OR Instrunet PCMCIA Interface Card C-
0000-NET-0006
PC
Draw Works
PCI or
Encoder
PCMCIA
Instrunet Barrier Box
Card
© 2006 WEATHERFORD, Inc. This document contains Company proprietary information. Page 2
Any reproduction or distribution in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
The following procedure assumes that the standard Spectrum™ depth tracking system is being
employed.
Dead Line
10. Install the depth encoder on either the Geolograph line or the draw works. The draw
works is the preferred means of depth tracking as it provides an independent, constant
depth tracking method. For a draw works installation, skip ahead to step (17). For a
Geolograph installation, proceed to step (11).
11. Using a 7/16” wrench, loosen the two bolts on the encoder sheave plate. Refer to Figure
3.0.2.
© 2006 WEATHERFORD, Inc. This document contains Company proprietary information. Page 3
Any reproduction or distribution in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
Path of
Geolograph
Line
12. Retract the sheave plate to expose the main encoder wheel and the two idler sheaves.
13. Ensure the driller has locked out and tagged out the draw works brake to guarantee the
blocks will not move during the installation.
14. Install the Geolograph line in between the main encoder wheel and the two idler sheaves.
Ensure the line is properly seated in the sheave grooves.
15. Slide the sheave plate to cover the exposed Geolograph line. Secure the plate by
tightening the two 7/16” bolts. Ensure the sheave plate does not contact any part of the
main encoder wheel.
16. Secure the encoder to the rig or Geolograph unit by using the mounting plate. Inform the
driller that normal rig operations may resume. Skip ahead to step (28).
17. Ensure the driller has locked and tagged out the draw works brake to guarantee the draw
works will not move during the installation.
18. Ensure the driller has turned off any water or air being fed to the draw works.
19. Remove the rig air/water fitting from the side of the draw works drum.
20. Apply to the correct size encoder drive shaft threads a layer of Teflon tape. Ensure the
copper spacer ring is on the encoder drive shaft. Install the encoder drive shaft into the
drum. Tighten firmly but do not over-torque.
21. Remove the mounting plate from the encoder if necessary. Loosen the lock screws in the
main encoder wheel. Refer to Figure 3.0.3.
© 2006 WEATHERFORD, Inc. This document contains Company proprietary information. Page 4
Any reproduction or distribution in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
22. Slide the encoder onto the drive shaft. Note: The lock screws must be accessible by a
Phillips screwdriver.
23. Align the holes in the drive shaft with the lock screws.
24. Tighten the lock screws into the holes with a Philips screwdriver.
25. Re-install the rig air/water fitting to the encoder drive shaft. Again, seal the air/water
fitting threads with a layer of Teflon tape prior to installation.
26. Secure the body of the encoder to a non-moving part of the draw works. Ensure the
encoder body will not rotate with the drum movement. Refer to Figure 3.0.4.
27. Inform the driller that normal rig operations may resume.
28. Install the 6-pin sensor cables and/or junction box w/multicore cable from the transducer
© 2006 WEATHERFORD, Inc. This document contains Company proprietary information. Page 5
Any reproduction or distribution in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
and encoder to the shack. Ensure the cables will not be contacted by moving vehicles or
equipment. At any point where the cables are suspended above the ground, the cable
must be visibly marked with fluorescent survey tape in 24” intervals.
29. Place the barrier box near the on-line computer and plug in the power cord to the UPS.
30. Connect the 25-pin serial cable (Serial Cable, RS-232, DB25 M/F, 15 ft. C-0000-CAB-
0013) from the barrier box to the Instrunet card of the on-line PC.
Note: Do not connect the barrier box to the parallel port of the PC. The Instrunet
terminal strip will be damaged.
31. Connect the sensor cable from the hook load transducer to the port on the barrier box
labeled, “Hookload”.
32. Connect the sensor cable from the encoder to the port on the barrier box labeled,
“Encoder”. If the blocks are moving, two of the LEDs on the digital barrier card
in the barrier box should be flashing.
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
Refer to the general Spectrum™ software manual for RunUI operation if necessary (Section 3).
The hook load sensor measures the string weight being held by the drill line. Spectrum™ via the
RunUI application reads the hook load sensor output in volts. The operator enters the
corresponding hook load reading (ie. klbf ) into the calibration table. Spectrum™ will then
calculate the hook load based on the values entered in the calibration table.
The in-slips status is then derived by comparison between the hook load sensor reading and the
Slips Threshold. If the measured hook load exceeds the Slips Threshold, the drill string is
considered to be, “Out-of-Slips”; subsequent movement of the blocks corresponds to drilling
activity (hole and bit depth will change). If the measured hook load is less than the Slips
Threshold, then drill string is considered to be, “In-Slips”; subsequent movement of the blocks
corresponds to drill pipe connection activity (hole depth will not change).
The following is the procedure for calibrating the hook load sensor. This should be performed
whenever the bottom hole assembly (BHA) has been run in the hole with significant string weight
but preferably still inside the casing.
1. With the blocks empty and motionless, enter the hook load sensor voltage by selecting
the import arrow corresponding to the “low” hook load field.
2. Enter in the block weight (ie. klbf ) into the “low” hook load field.
3. Pick up and hang the drill string. After the blocks are held motionless, enter the hook
load sensor voltage by selecting the import arrow corresponding to the “high” hook
load field.
4. Enter string weight into the “high” hook load field.
5. Enter a reasonable value in the Slips Threshold field. As an initial estimate, use the
“low” hook load value in the table plus 10-20 klb.
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
6. Monitor the Slips indicator in RunUI to verify accurate detection of pipe connection
(in/out of slips status). Refer to Figure 4.1.2. If the “In-slips” status is triggered early (ie.
In-slips detected before Slips are set on the pipe), increase the Slips Threshold slightly
(ie. 10%). Conversely if the “In-slips” status is triggered late (ie. In-slips detected well
after Slips are set on the pipe or not detected at all), decrease the Slips Threshold
slightly.
Note: The method that a Driller employs to set the slips varies. It may be necessary to
adjust the Slips Threshold to account for differences in Drillers.
Note:
Note: On a horizontal well, or circumstances when the hook load is not an accurate
determinant of “In-slips” status, the “Prevent ‘In Slips’ while Circulating” and “Prevent
‘In Slips’ while On Bottom” options should be enabled. Otherwise, drill pipe
connections will not be detected correctly.
7. If it is desired to obtain WOB values, the hook load sensor must be calibrated correctly.
Enter in the buoyancy factor and the pipe weight of the BHA into the WOB Parameters
section of the RunUI. While the drill pipe is rotating (ie. Not sliding or hung up in the
hole), select the “Fetch Hookload and Depth” button to import the current hook load and
depth. Enter the current WOB as per the rig WOB gauge into the WOB1 field. The
WOB2 field will then display the calculated WOB.
Note: It may be necessary to re-calibrate the “High” hook load value as the well is being
drilled. This is to reduce interpolation errors with increasing measured depth.
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
The following is the procedure for calibrating the depth encoder. This should be performed
immediately after the hook load calibration or whenever it is convenient for the rig prior to
logging operations.
Note: If U.S. units are being used, all length measurements must be made in decimal feet. For
example, 6 ft. 4 in. is 6.333 in decimal feet.
Note: Verify the encoder orientation is correct (ie. Voltage increases with increasing block
height) before the encoder calibration is conducted. If the counts are negative (counts decrease
with increasing block height), the encoder signal must be reversed by either reversing the
orientation of the encoder on the rig OR adjusting the barrier card in the barrier box. Refer to
Figure 4.2.1.
Note: For rigs equipped with a kelly, instruct the driller to lower the kelly to the point where they
normally stop drilling a single (Referred to as “zero block height”, “zero kelly” or “kelly down”).
Visibly mark the kelly quill with spray paint where it is level with the top of the kelly bushing.
Inform the driller to drill exactly to the mark on the kelly for every single prior to making
connection.
1. In RunUI software, open the Depth Settings window (If the depth settings are greyed-out
then select “Enable Depth” in the Acquisition Settings of RunUI).
2. Instruct the driller to lower the the top drive to the bottom of the rail (For a kelly rig,
lower the kelly to the kelly down mark). Instruct the driller to chain down the brake.
3. Attach a 100 ft. measuring tape to any place that is non-removable on the top drive (For a
kelly rig attach the measuring tape to the kelly down mark).
4. Measure and record the distance to the floor. Enter this value in the “low” field of the
depth calibration table.
5. Open the barrier box and gently push the reset button located on the AES D/A Board
(Surface Signal Processor Board). Verify the sensor voltage is reset to approximately
-3.821 V. Refer to Figure 4.2.2. Do not press the reset button again. If the reset
button is inadvertently pressed after the low block height has been set, the
calibration procedure must be re-done from the beginning (ie. Step 2).
6. Select the import arrow corresponding to the “low” field of the depth calibration table.
7. Instruct the Driller to raise the blocks. Monitor the draw works drum for the layer change
point (Refer to Figure 4.2.3).
8. Instruct the Driller to stop when the layer change point is reached. Measure the distance
from the top drive/low kelly mark to the rig floor.
9. Select the import arrow corresponding to the next higher level of the depth calibration
table. Enter the measured distance to the rig floor in the corresponding field.
10. Repeat steps (7) to (9) until the blocks are at a point higher than when it would normally
be when the rig trips out of the hole. If additional calibration points are required then
these may be added; however, do not leave extra spaces for layers that do not exist.
11. Instruct the driller to lower the blocks. Verify block height voltages correspond to those
entered in the calibration table while the block height is measured with the tape
measure during the return travel to the floor.
12. Record all the calibration values in the table and retrieve the tape measure.
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
Note: If the draw works encoder has been installed on a Geolograph line, then only make two
calibration points. The first is at the kelly-down position, the second at the high-kelly position (as
described in step (10).
Note: For offshore installations, the calibration procedure for the Riser and Compensator system
is similar to that of a Draw Works encoder employing a Geolograph line.
A B
A B
B A
B A
Note: The integrity of the power supplied to the barrier box is critical. If the power to the barrier
box is interrupted, the depth calibration must be reset. The blocks must be returned to the low-
kelly position and the sensor voltage reset to -3.8V prior to drilling.
Note: Remove the hook load sensor before the rig Slip-and-Cuts the drill line. After the Slip-
and-Cut, it will be necessary to perform a new calibration procedure.
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
The reset buttons are located near the PIC chips, at the top of the PCB.
From left to right, the depth reset button is always the left-most, followed by the riser, then the
compensator. The fourth button is for the spare depth channel.
Note: The toggle switches control a multiplier being added to the depth signal. In the 1X
position the signal is not affected. In the 4X position the signal changes are multiplied by 4. The
switch should be set to create a calibration table with considerable variance in the values between
low and high kelly (ie. -3.8 to +1 V) without exceeding the +/- 5V limits. If it is determined that
the the position of the multiplier switch must be changed, the calibration procedure must be
completely re-done.
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
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Depth Calibration Procedure
Revision: E
The following is a list of common repair parts for the Spectrum™ depth tracking system:
Surface Sensors
Surface Cables
PC Interface Card
Shipping Case
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