You are on page 1of 55

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 1 of 55

Introduction to Measurement While Drilling (MWD)


Subject Matter Expert: Jan Morley

An asterisk (*) is used throughout this module to denote a mark of Schlumberger.

Objectives In this module you will learn how Measurement While Drilling (MWD) system components work, their function and what they do. You will also learn about the major components of Anadrill s six MWD tools.

Study Questions
This module contains study questions. As you come across the questions, try to answer them without looking back at the lesson. Look if you need to. Answers are provided in the last part of this module.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 2 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 3 of 55

1 Introduction Technological advancements in drilling have resulted in more cost-effective procedures and improved drilling techniques. One area that has benefited from the improved technology has been the measurements while drilling program. MWD provides real-time data from measurements made near the drill bit during the drilling of a well, allowing adjustments to be made while the drilling is in progress.

The MWD tools in use today are able to provide data for a variety of measurements such as real-time formation measurement (shown here) data for correlation and pore pressure analysis, including resistivity, density and porosity measurements of the formation, real-time surveys, including inclination, azimuth, and toolface, allowing the driller to steer the well for directional control, and real-time drilling mechanics data for drilling efficiency, including downhole weight-on-bit and downhole torque-at-bit.

While drilling is taking place, the drilling fluid, or "mud", is pumped through drillpipe connecting the surface equipment to the bottomhole assembly (BHA).

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 4 of 55

Data from some of the MWD tools is transmitted uphole to the surface by mud pulse telemetry, while other tools transmit data to the surface electronically via a wire and are referred to as wireline MWD systems. The pulses are converted to electrical voltages at the surface by a transducer mounted in the mud pump discharge piping. The surface equipment then decodes the information, which represents measurements made by the tool.

Logging while drilling (LWD) is closely related to MWD. LWD provides formation measurements, while MWD provides drilling mechanics and survey measurements.

Both MWD and LWD data are transmitted in real time to the surface. However, LWD provides better resolution than MWD because the LWD measurements are commonly stored in downhole memory. The MWD measurements have data transmission limitations, which hinder the resolution of the measurement values. LWD will be covered in another module, while this module concentrates on the MWD tools and systems.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 5 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 6 of 55

What Do You Think? What type of measurements does MWD provide that LWD does not? Circle all the correct answers. 1.Formation measurements 2.Drilling mechanics 3.Survey measurements

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 7 of 55

2 MWD System Components In this lesson you will learn to identify the components of an MWD system.

MWD System Components Anadrill manufactures a range of MWD tools and systems to meet the requirements of its customers. All of the MWD tools are made up of the same major surface and downhole components even though each type of tool is designed to meet a specific need.

The MWD surface system components consist of: surface sensors for measuring surface drilling parameters, as well as the well s depth, a transducer at the surface to receive the measurement signals from the MWD tool, a computer for decoding downhole data at the surface, and a computer for processing, storing, and using all of the data.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 8 of 55

The MWD downhole tool components consist of: a component to supply the power needed to make downhole measurements, one or more components for making downhole measurements, and a component for producing and transmitting the measurement signals to the surface.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 9 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 10 of 55

Exercises 1. Each MWD tool is made up of which of the following downhole components? Circle all the correct answers. 1.A component for producing and transmitting the measurement signals to the surface 2.A transducer for receiving the measurement signals at the surface 3.A component to supply the power needed to make downhole measurements 4.One or more components for making downhole measurements

2. Each MWD surface systems is made up of which of the following surface components? Circle all the correct answers. 1.A component for communicating with other wellbores 2.Surface sensors for measuring surface drilling parameters, as well as the well s depth 3.A component for estimating the cost of production 4.A computer for decoding downhole data at the surface

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 11 of 55

3 MWD System Component Functions In this lesson you will learn to match the components of an MWD system with a description of what each component does. 3.1 Power Supply Batteries, or downhole alternators, supply power to the tools. The batteries allow the tools to operate without the flow of mud, but the operating time and sensor power output is limited. The alternators need mud flow to generate their power and can work in a wide range of flow rates.

3.2 Measurement All MWD systems measure the direction and inclination (D&I) of the wellbore. The measurements are used to accurately map the well so the driller can guide the bit to its ultimate or intermediate targets, as well as avoid other wells. The well being drilled may require specific turn and build rates. The MWD tool may also have the ability to make secondary measurements, such as downhole weight on bit and annular temperature.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 12 of 55

3.3 Signal Production The tool s measuring device produces data signals that need to be sent to the surface. Because the MWD tool is remote from the driller, it is necessary to transmit the data by way of a signal from the tool to the driller. This must be done in a manner that maximizes data transmission and reliability and minimizes the impact on drilling operations.

3.4 Transmitting and Telemetry MWD systems use mud pulse telemetry to transmit survey data to the surface. Analog signals produced by the tool measuring devices are converted into digital signals (1 and 0). The digital signals are then converted into pressure pulses that carry the data to the surface through the column of drilling fluid.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 13 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 14 of 55

What Do You Think? Write in the correct term to complete the following sentence. MWD systems use _______________________ pulse telemetry to transmit survey data to the surface.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 15 of 55

3.4.1 Mud Pulse Telemetry Downhole Information is transmitted to the surface through the mud by way of a data signal created downhole. The surface equipment decodes the data signals of the measurements so that the driller can make adjustments. The three common types of signals generated are positive pulse telemetry, negative pulse telemetry and continuous wave telemetry. Positive Pulse Telemetry A flow restrictor produces positive pulses as illustrated in the graphic.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 16 of 55

Negative Pulse Telemetry A diverter valve produces negative pulses as illustrated in the graphic.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 17 of 55

Continuous Wave Telemetry Rotating plates produce continuous waves as illustrated in the graphic.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 18 of 55

3.4.2 Wireline Telemetry Data can also be sent to the surface through a wire attached to the MWD tool. This method was common with older types of tools (called steering tools). However, with an attached wire, the drillstring cannot be rotated. Today, wireline is used in conjunction with coiled tubing, where the drillstring is a continuous length of metal pipe fed into the wellbore from a drum and so cannot be rotated.

3.5 Receiving and Decoding A transducer (or sensor) at the surface receives the pressure pulses and converts them to electrical signals. A surface sensor is not necessary for the wireline type of MWD. Surface computers decode the electrical signals from the transducer and turn the digital information into engineering values and survey computations.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 19 of 55

3.6 Data Processing and Usage An important function of the surface computer is to process the data of the local conditions, such as hole size and depth. The data produced by the MWD tool is processed and used to provide information about the well. This information is used to make critical decisions about the drilling process, such as the well direction. An important function of the surface computer is to process the data of the local conditions, such as hole size and depth. The data produced by the MWD tool is processed and used to provide information about the well. This information is used to make critical decisions about the drilling process, such as the well direction. 3.7 Display Monitors display data in realtime on the drillfloor so that the driller can make well steering decisions. Displays are used in the Anadrill unit to allow for production of logs (a plot of data against depth) and making formation-evaluation interpretations. With remote data links, displays located at the client s office allow them to view MWD data from the wellsite.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 20 of 55

3.8 Control Downhole MWD allows the driller to control downhole drilling in real time. Directional information is sent to the surface continuously so that course corrections can be made. MWD tools make applications like geosteering possible. The driller can use the measurement data to maximize the productive length of a wellbore within a reservoir.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 21 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 22 of 55

Exercises 1. Write the name of the MWD system component that performs each function listed below. 1.Supplies power to the tool 2.Measures direction and inclination 3.Produces data signals to be sent to the surface 4.Sends wellbore data to the surface ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________

2. Write the name of the MWD system component that performs each function listed below. 1.Receives pulses and converts them into electrical signals ________________________ 2.Decode electrical signals and turns them into digital information __________________ 3.Processes data of the local conditions ________________________

3. Write the name of the MWD system component that performs each function listed below. 1.Used to view data in real time on the drill floor 2.Allows the driller to control drilling in real time ________________________ ________________________

3.Provides information that is used to make critical decisions about the drilling process ________________________

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 23 of 55

4.

Identify each telemetry signal in the picture below.

_______________________ pulse

________________________ pulse

________________________ pulse

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 24 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 25 of 55

4 How MWD Components Work In this lesson you will learn about the components of a MWD system and descriptions of how each component works.

4.1 Power Supply Power is supplied to the tools by batteries or alternators. The batteries give power without the need for mud flow. An alternator uses mud flow to turn a turbine. The turbine generates enough current to power the MWD tools. MWD tools are able to provide a variety of measurements, including wellbore inclination and direction. Accelerometers are used to measure the earth s gravitational field to get the inclination of the wellbore. Magnetometers are used to measure the earth s magnetic field to get the direction. Magnetometers are used in conjunction with accelerometers to give azimuth. The specific details on how the downhole sensors work to measure geological characteristics are covered in a separate module.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 26 of 55

What Do You Think Match each of the MWD system components with its description. Write the letter of the component that matches each description in the spaces provided. 1.Uses mud flow to generate current 2.Measures the inclination of the wellbore 3.Measures the direction of the wellbore _____________ _____________ _____________

A. B. C.

Magnetometer Alternator Accelerometer

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 27 of 55

4.3 Signal Production, Transmitting, and Telemetry Survey data, collected by the MWD tool, is transmitted to the surface by mud pulse telemetry. The next four sections will explain how the three types of signals are generated and transmitted to the surface. Positive Pulse Telemetry Positive pulse telemetry uses a flow restrictor (or plunger mechanism) that closes to increase standpipe pressure when activated. As the mud flows through the pipe, the pressure fluctuates as the plunger mechanism opens and closes. The highs and lows of pressure, as sensed by a transducer on the standpipe, are transmitted to the surface as ones or zeros and are decoded as data.

Negative Pulse Telemetry Negative pulse telemetry uses a diverter (or flapper) valve. When the flapper valve is open the drilling fluid is diverted to the annulus, creating negative pulses as the pressure fluctuates. The pressure changes are identified and decoded at the surface as data.

Standing or Continuous Wave Pulsers Standing or continuous wave pulsers, also known as mud sirens, are a type of positive pulse telemetry. Rotating baffled plates are used to temporarily interrupt mud flow, creating a pressure wave in the standpipe. A carrier wave is formed, allowing information to be embedded within the carrier wave by changing the wave s phase or frequency. The information carried by the wave is identified at the surface and decoded.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 28 of 55

Wireline Telemetry Wireline telemetry uses a cable to transmit data to the surface from the downhole systems. The VIPER tool uses a wireline cable to transmit the data to the surface as shown in the graphic.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 29 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 30 of 55

What Do You Think? Complete the following sentence. Standing or continuous wave pulsers are also known as _____________ _____________.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 31 of 55

4.4 Receiving and Decoding Pressure pulses are received and converted to electric voltages by a transducer installed in the mud pump discharge piping. The surface computers then perform the pressure pulse decoding and survey computations to convert the data into useful measurements.

4.5 Data Processing Anadrill s Integrated Drilling Evaluation and Logging (IDEAL*) system combines downhole directional drilling, drilling mechanics, and petrophysical data measurements within a few feet of the bit and transmits the data to the surface in real time. Downhole data is merged with relevant surface measurements and is automatically checked and translated into useful information. The information can be displayed simultaneously on the rig floor, in the surface unit, and in the company representative s office.

Real-time formation evaluation measurements enable the steering team to keep the wellpath in the productive formation, even when there are unexpected changes in the formation.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 32 of 55

Exercises 1. Match each of the MWD system components with the description of how it works. Write the letter of the system in on the line below the description that matches it. 1.Batteries give power without mud flow. An alternator uses a turbine to generate current. __________ 2.Accelerometers measure the earth s gravitational field to get the inclination. __________ 3.Pressure pulses are received and converted to electric voltages by a transducer. __________ 4.The surface computers perform the pressure pulse decoding to convert the data into useful measurements. __________ A. B. C. D. Decoding Measurement Power supply Receiving

2. Match each of the MWD system components with the description of how it works. Write the letter of the system in on the line below the description that matches it. 1.Uses a flow restrictor to generate a pulse _____ 2.Uses a diverter valve to generate a pulse 3.Uses rotating plates to generate a pulse 4.Uses a cable to carry the signal _____ _____ _____ A. B. C. D. Negative pulse telemetry Wireline Continuous wave telemetry Positive pulse telemetry

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 33 of 55

3. Write the name of the type of telemetry associated with the equipment shown in each picture.

1.

______________________________

2.

______________________________

3.

______________________________

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 34 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 35 of 55

5 MWD Tools In this lesson, you will learn about the market need for Anadrill s MWD tools. Advancements in technological innovations have resulted in the development of new and improved MWD tools. As a well is being drilled, the MWD tool makes measurements and gathers data so the driller can make adjustments as soon as possible. This section provides reasons for developing the following Anadrill MWD tools: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. VIPER*, Slim 1*, SHARP*, M3*, PowerPulse*,and IMPulse*.

5.1 VIPER

The VIPER tool was developed because there was a need for an integrated device that would work with coiled tubing for slimhole and reentry operations. The VIPER tool is a 2 7/8-in., steerable BHA tool that uses a wireline to transmit data to the surface. The VIPER can measure direction and inclination (D&I), gamma ray (GR), external pressure, internal pressure, casing joint detection, and motor stall indication.

5.2 Slim 1

The Slim 1 tool was developed because there was a need for a low cost retrievable, reconfigurable tool that could be used with a wide variety of collar sizes (2 7/8-in. to 9 5/8-in.). The Slim 1 can measure inclination, azimuth, gravity, or magnetic tool face, as well as formation gamma ray.
Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 36 of 55

5.3 SHARP

The SHARP tool was developed as a portable, low cost replacement for the Slim 1. SHARP stands for Slim Hole Adaptable Retrievable Platform. It has many of the same parts as the Slim 1, but the SHARP has improved signal detection and greater programming flexibility. The SHARP is retrievable and reconfigurable and has the capability of a higher data rate than the Slim 1. The SHARP tool can be used in drill collars varying from 4 3/4-in. to 9 5/8-in. or even as small as 2 7/8-in., but it is not retrievable or resettable at this size. The SHARP can measure inclination, azimuth, gravity or magnetic toolface and natural gamma ray.

5.4 M3

The M3 tool was designed and developed as a replacement for the older M1 tool and is directly compatible with all LWD tools. The modulator and the telemetry cartridge were redesigned because there was a need for improved signal generation and detection as well as increased flexibility and reliability.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 37 of 55

5.5 PowerPulse

The PowerPulse (M10*) tool was designed and developed because there was a need for a tool with improved reliability, decreased maintenance costs, increased data rate, and as a replacement for the M3. Other design advantages of the PowerPulse include reduced length, no collar wiring, variable operating frequencies, higher shock and vibration resistance, larger flow range and higher maximum flow rate.

5.6 IMPulse

The IMPulse tool is a smaller version of the PowerPulse tool. It was designed and developed to address MWD and LWD in slim holes. Design improvements of the tool include being compatible with other slim hole LWD tools.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 38 of 55

Exercise Match each MWD tool with the reason it was developed. Write the letter of the market need in the space beside the name of the tool. 1. VIPER ___________ A. An integrated device that works with coiled tubing B. Designed to address MWD and LWD in slim holes C. A portable, low cost replacement for the Slim 1 with improved signal detection and greater programming flexibility D. A low cost retrievable, resettable tool that could be used with a wide variety of collar sizes E. Replacement for the older M1 and directly compatible with all LWD tools F. Replacement for the M3 with improved reliability

2. Slim 1

___________

3. SHARP

___________

4. M3

___________

5. PowerPulse

___________

6. IMPulse

___________

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 39 of 55

6 Anadrill MWD Tool Components In this lesson, you will learn about the major downhole components of Anadrill s MWD tools. The Anadrill MWD tools covered in this section include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. VIPER, Slim 1, SHARP, M3, PowerPulse, and IMPulse.

This section illustrates the major components of each tool. The function and operation of the components are covered in the module on each individual tool.

6.1 VIPER

The VIPER tool uses a wire to transmit data to the surface. The graphic illustrates the major components of the VIPER system, including the: coiled tubing and wireline, telemetry and power section, gamma ray sensor (GR), and direction and inclination sensor (D&I).

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 40 of 55

6.2 Slim 1

The Slim 1 tool uses positive pulse telemetry to transmit data to the surface. The graphic illustrates the major components of the Slim 1 system, including the: pulser (SMA), gamma ray sensor (GR), direction and inclination sensor (D&I), electronics module (SEA), centralizer module, and battery module. 6.3 SHARP

The SHARP tool uses positive pulse telemetry to transmit data to the surface. The graphic illustrates the major components of the SHARP system, including the: pulser (SMA), direction and inclination sensor (D&I), gamma ray sensor (GR), electronics assembly (SHEC), battery assembly (SHBA), and orienting assembly (SHOA).

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 41 of 55

6.4 M3

The M3 uses continuous wave telemetry to transmit data to the surface. The graphic illustrates the major components of the M3 system, including the: M3 collar, telemetry cartridge assembly (TCA), sensor cartridge assembly (SCA), gamma ray assembly (GRTM), turbine alternator assembly (TAA), and modulator (MOD). 6.5 PowerPulse

The PowerPulse uses continuous wave telemetry to transmit data to the surface. The graphic illustrates the major components of the PowerPulse system, including the: M10 drill collar (MDC), modulator assembly (MMA), direction and inclination sensor (D&I), gamma ray sensor (GR), electronics assembly (MEA) and turbine assembly (MTA).

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 42 of 55

6.6 IMPulse

The IMPulse uses continuous wave telemetry to transmit data to the surface. The graphic illustrates the major components of the IMPulse system, including the: gamma ray detector (GR), direction and inclination sensor (D&I), power and telemetry section, and resistivity antennas.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 43 of 55

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 44 of 55

Exercises 1. Identify the components of the VIPER. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

_______ Direction and inclination sensor _______ Coiled tubing & wireline

_______ Telemetry & power _______ Gamma ray sensor

2. Identify the components of the Slim 1. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

_______ Centralizer module _______ Pulser

_______ Electronics module _______ Battery module

3. Identify the components of the SHARP. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

_______ Pulser _______ Electronics assembly

_______ Battery assembly _______ Orienting assembly

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 45 of 55

4. Identify the components of the M3. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

_______ Sensor cartridge assembly _______ Telemetry cartridge assembly

_______ Turbine alternator assembly _______ Gamma ray assembly

5. Identify the components of the PowerPulse. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

_______ Modulator assembly _______ Electronics assembly

_______ M10 drill collar _______ Turbine assembly

6. Identify the components of the IMPulse. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

_______ Power and telemetry section _______ Direction and inclination sensors

_______ Gamma ray detector _______ Resistivity antennas

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 46 of 55

7 Summary Technological advancements with MWD tools have led to improved and more effective measurements. MWD tools are essential to making measurements near the bit during drilling so a driller can make adjustments when needed. In this module you have learned to: Identify the components of a MWD system. Match the components of a MWD system with a description of what the component does. Match the components of a MWD system with a description of how the component works. Match each tool with the reason it was developed. Identify the major downhole components of Anadrill s MWD tools.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 47 of 55

8 Answers to Study Questions Correct answers are shown as bold or typed on the lines provided. Part 1 What Do You Think? What type of measurements does MWD provide that LWD does not? Circle all the correct answers. 1.Formation measurements 2.Drilling mechanics 3.Survey measurements

Part 2 Exercises 1. Each MWD tool is made up of which of the following downhole components? Circle all the correct answers. 1.A component for producing and transmitting the measurement signals to the surface 2.A transducer for receiving the measurement signals at the surface 3.A component to supply the power needed to make downhole measurements 4.One or more components for making downhole measurements

2. Each MWD surface systems is made up of which of the following surface components? Circle all the correct answers. 1.A component for communicating with other wellbores 2.Surface sensors for measuring surface drilling parameters, as well as the well s depth 3.A component for estimating the cost of production 4.A computer for decoding downhole data at the surface

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 48 of 55

Part 3
What Do You Think? Write in the correct term to complete the following sentence. MWD systems use ____________mud________ pulse telemetry to transmit survey data to the surface.

Exercises
1. Write the name of the MWD system component that performs each function listed below. 1.Supplies power to the tool 2.Measures direction and inclination 3.Produces data signals to be sent to the surface 4.Sends wellbore data to the surface ___power supply________________ ___measurement________________ ___signal production_____________ ___transmitting_________________

2. Write the name of the MWD system component that performs each function listed below. 1.Receives pulses and converts them into electrical signals ___receiving and decoding__ 2.Decode electrical signals and turns them into digital information ___receiving and decoding__ 3.Processes data of the local conditions __data processing and usage_

3. Write the name of the MWD system component that performs each function listed below. 1.Used to view data in real time on the drill floor 2.Allows the driller to control drilling in real time __display________________ __control downhole________

3.Provides information that is used to make critical decisions about the drilling process __data processing and usage_____

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 49 of 55

4.

Identify each telemetry signal in the picture below.

____positive______________ pulse

____negative_____________ pulse

____continuous___________ pulse

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 50 of 55

Part 4
What Do You Think Match each of the MWD system components with its description. Write the letter of the component that matches each description in the spaces provided. 1.Uses mud flow to generate current 2.Measures the inclination of the wellbore 3.Measures the direction of the wellbore _____B________ _____C________ _____A________

A. B. C.

Magnetometer Alternator Accelerometer

What Do You Think? Complete the following sentence. Standing or continuous wave pulsers are also known as _____mud_____ ____siren___.

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 51 of 55

Exercises 1. Match each of the MWD system components with the description of how it works. Write the letter of the system in on the line below the description that matches it. 1.Batteries give power without mud flow. An alternator uses a turbine to generate current. ____C______ 2.Accelerometers measure the earth s gravitational field to get the inclination. ____B______ 3.Pressure pulses are received and converted to electric voltages by a transducer. _____D_____ 4.The surface computers perform the pressure pulse decoding to convert the data into useful measurements. _____A_____ A. B. C. D. Decoding Measurement Power supply Receiving

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 52 of 55

2. Match each of the MWD system components with the description of how it works. Write the letter of the system in on the line below the description that matches it. 1.Uses a flow restrictor to generate a pulse __D__ 2.Uses a diverter valve to generate a pulse 3.Uses rotating plates to generate a pulse 4.Uses a cable to carry the signal __A__ __C__ __B__ A. B. C. D. Negative pulse telemetry Wireline Continuous wave telemetry Positive pulse telemetry

3. Write the name of the type of telemetry associated with the equipment shown in each picture.

1.

____positive pulse______________

2.

____negative pulse______________

3.

continuous pulse or standing wave_

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 53 of 55

Part 5 Exercise Match each MWD tool with the reason it was developed. Write the letter of the market need in the space beside the name of the tool. 7. VIPER _____A______ G. An integrated device that works with coiled tubing H. Designed to address MWD and LWD in slim holes I. A portable, low cost replacement for the Slim 1 with improved signal detection and greater programming flexibility J. A low cost retrievable, resettable tool that could be used with a wide variety of collar sizes K. Replacement for the older M1 and directly compatible with all LWD tools L. Replacement for the M3 with improved reliability

8. Slim 1

_____D______

9. SHARP

_____C______

10. M3

_____E______

11. PowerPulse

_____F______

12. IMPulse

_____B______

Part 6 Exercises 1. Identify the components of the VIPER. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

___4____ Direction and inclination sensor ___1____ Coiled tubing & wireline

___2____ Telemetry & power ___3____ Gamma ray sensor

2. Identify the components of the Slim 1. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.
Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 54 of 55

___3____ Centralizer module ___1____ Pulser

___2____ Electronics module ___4____ Battery module

3. Identify the components of the SHARP. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

___1____ Pulser ___2____ Electronics assembly

__3_____ Battery assembly ___4____ Orienting assembly

4. Identify the components of the M3. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

___2____ Sensor cartridge assembly ___1____ Telemetry cartridge assembly

__4_____ Turbine alternator assembly ___3____ Gamma ray assembly

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

Introduction to MWD

Revised: 10/2/98

Printed: 10/2/98

Page 55 of 55

5. Identify the components of the PowerPulse. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

___1____ Modulator assembly ___3____ Electronics assembly

___2____ M10 drill collar ___4____ Turbine assembly

6. Identify the components of the IMPulse. Write the number of each component on the line next to its name.

___3____ Power and telemetry section ___2____ Direction and inclination sensors

___1____ Gamma ray detector ___4____ Resistivity antennas

Source: SLC IntroToMWD.doc Revised:2-Oct-98

You might also like