New products and services

CT scanning advances wellbore analysis

Nikon Metrology, in partnership with the COREX unit of Premier Oilfield Laboratories, is improving augmented rock core investigations by using high-resolution microfocus-computed tomography (micro-CT) scanning. This process obtains a true picture, in a non-destructive way, and reveals bedding features, fractures, cements and heterogeneities that are smaller than one micron. Additionally, the images and data sets produced can show grain size and shape, pore size and network, cements and mineralogy, and can potentially visualize fluids and saturation. According to the company, the systems and the X-ray sources that power the micro-CT are manufactured on site in three-factory units, with further areas devoted to service and support.

www.nikonmetrology.com

Mini-flow loop system for friction pressure testing

Chandler Engineering adds the Model 6500-M Mini to its friction flow loop line. This benchtop unit is designed to measure the friction pressure created by different slick water fracturing fluids. Additionally, the system determines the effects of friction reducers on fracturing fluids over a wide range of pressures, flowrate conditions and pipe diameters. According to the company, the unit’s custom design allows for total operator control over flowrate, test time and temperature for each individual test.

www.chandlereng.com

Video streaming in rugged, robust environments

The ZumLink 900, developed by FreeWave Technologies, in partnership with McQ, is a high-speed, low-power consumption radio, that bypasses the need for Wi-Fi and cellular at the camera. Powered by solar, wind or fuel cells, the radio can stream intelligent video over a 900 MHz frequency, across 60 mi line of sight. 

www.freewave.com

Acoustic release mooring connectors improve rig moves 

InterMoor, an Acteon company, announces its Inter-M Release mooring connector that releases a rig’s mooring legs remotely and immediately. Featuring military-grade, high-fidelity Teledyne Benthos acoustic modems, the device implements domain key authorization, unique addressing, network relay and frequency hopping techniques. With an increased battery life from 18 months to five years, the device uses the platform of sister company SRP’s Rocksteady mooring connector and its secondary actuated release system. Image: InterMoor.

www.intermoor.com

Versatile flare system engineered for upstream capabilities

ASHCOR LLC announced its High Pressure Low Pressure (HPLP) flare system for primary use in upstream applications. With scalable build options (≤ 50 ft), the system features smokeless combustion and a smaller, on-site footprint. Additionally, both burners can operate at once, or as a singular, high-pressure (≤ 10 MMscfd) or singular, low-pressure (≤ 200 Mscfd) unit. Also, there is a single, retractable pilot to light both burners. 

www.ashcor.com/hplp

Chemical delivery pills transported precisely, bring wells online faster

SmartCore products from Terves Inc. enable independent control over wellbore local chemistry, by utilizing a dissolvable carrier—such as a frac ball—to deliver well control chemicals to a precise location. According to the company, the 3.5-in. carriers accelerate removal, ensure complete dissolution, reduce formation of solid byproducts and sensitivity to water source. As the carrier dissolves in 24-36 hr, it leaves only a clear liquid byproduct. 

www.tervesinc.com

Unconventional perforating system improves horizontal well completions

GEODynamics, a subsidiary of Oil States International, Inc., has engineered FracIQ PRO, a perforating system tailored for multi-stage, plug-and-perf operations. Using limited-entry, perforating shaped charges, the system delivers constant hole sizes and penetration depths in wells, regardless of gun position, well casing or formation type. Additionally,  the threaded gun-to-gun connection eliminates hand wiring at the well site, and incorporates redundant grounding for reliable firing, with any switch system. Available hole sizes include 0.30-in., 0.35-in., 0.40-in. and 0.50-in. Image: Geodynamics.

www.perf.com 

Advances in low-power technology 

Siemens, in partnership with Newgate Instruments LLC, has updated its multi-variable gas pressure transmitters. Designed for remote measurement of differential pressure, static pressure and temperature with external RTD, the JT400 offers drop-in compatibility via BSAP, Enron Modbus and ROC compatible protocols. With a power consumption of <4mW, DP measurement accuracy of 0.05% and pressure reference accuracy of 0.035% of URL, the product is able to remain accurate to 0.1% up to 133% of URL, during over-pressure. It comes standard with Class I, Division I, Group C, D, explosion-proof UL/CUL, as well as menu operation with live trending in real time. Image: Siemens.

www.usa.siemens.com/pressure