New products

Vol. 229 No. 5

Data acquisition for coiled tubing

AnTech Ltd. announced its new suite of Daq> data-acquisition systems designed specifically for Coiled Tubing (CT) operations. Each system measures, records and transmits real-time data on depth, temperature, pressure, flow and load that is critical to CT operations. The Daq> range offers CT engineers a scalable approach to wellsite data acquisition. A flexible option that operates without cables, the modular, battery-powered system gathers data through wireless mesh-networked sensors. As data is acquired by the sensors, it is immediately stored in memory located within the transmitting unit, and then transmitted at regular intervals-between 50 and 100 m away depending on environmental conditions-at a data rate of 160 bits/sec. to the receiving unit in the control cabin. The system’s wireless transmitters transmit at such low power that they are safe to use within close proximity to perforating operations. Additionally, each sensor module is designed to meet the ATEX requirements for use in Zone 0 hazardous areas.

Software for high-resolution seismic imaging

Paradigm has introduced a new high-resolution subsurface imaging solution. Named Common Reflection Angle Migration (CRAM), the product is designed to improve the quality of information obtained from seismic data processing, and increase the success of locating economically viable hydrocarbons. Based on a new procedure that maps recorded seismic surface data to subsurface image points, the software is specifically designed to help resolve difficult subsurface illumination problems and to facilitate and qualify the extraction of direct hydrocarbon indicators from seismic data. The application maintains flexibility of traditional ray-based solutions, while inheriting the desirable properties of full-waveform solutions. It provides detailed velocity model determination, target-oriented high-resolution reservoir imaging and quality reservoir property extraction from complex areas.

Intrinsically safe task light

The Bayco dual-mode, multi-function XLR-9860 and XLR-9820 task light models are designed specifically for working in hazardous environments. These intrinsically safe lights are reliable, offer more utility, are virtually indestructible and enhance personal safety. LEDs eliminate bulb breakage and burnout. A rechargeable NiMH battery pack greatly extends run times. The lights are chemical proof and waterproof to 1 m. They provide up to 240 lumens of tightly focused beam for long reach and up to 300 lumens of floodlight for wide-view visibility, and both can be activated at once.

Fiber optics for heavy oil recovery

Schlumberger has introduced its new WellWatcher BriteBlue harsh-environment multi-mode fiber and WellWatcher Ultra distributed temperature acquisition system. The WellWatcher BriteBlue fiber can be used for distributed temperature sensing or for high-speed communication between downhole sensors and a surface acquisition unit. The fiber was designed especially for use in extreme heat and hydrogen-environments that can cause most optical fibers to degrade in physical integrity and performance over time. The new design and technology makes the fiber particularly suitable for thermal heavy oil recovery. The WellWatcher Ultra distributed temperature system surface unit acquires downhole temperature profiles. The system can measure up to 15 km of fiber at 1-m resolution, update data in a few seconds, resolve temperatures to 0.01°C, and interrogate numerous fibers from one surface system. As soon as the measurement is taken, the data is available for downstream applications and is communicated using various industry-standard or customized protocols.

Rheometer

Brookfield Engineering has introduced the new R/S Plus Rheometer, featuring a smaller-diameter spindle shaft, smaller water jacket accessory and direct control of temperature from the keypad on P1 and P2 Cone Plate models. The instrument is designed for rheological evaluation of materials through the direct measurement of viscosity, yield stress, thixotropic response, creep and other flow properties. It features a temperature range up to 180°C, speed range from 0.1 to 1,000 rpm, and measurement sensitivity delivering comprehensive data for modulus and static yield stress as well as information for creep testing. The R/S Plus operates in both stand-alone mode and under PC control. The Rheo3000 software provides flow characterization tools including shear ramp, loop and single-point testing. The instrument is available with cone/plate, plate/plate or coaxial cylinder measurement geometries.

Embedded positioning system

IXSEA has introduced its new product, Ramses, a positioning system that combines an embedded data fusion engine, real-time range and positioning computation, USBL acoustic positioning data and coupling with PHINS inertial navigation system. The system’s operating principle, Simultaneous Localization And Mapping (SLAM), was developed in the 1980s as a technique used by robots to position themselves while building up a map within an unknown environment. Ramses uses SLAM to compute the unknown positions of beacons deployed on the seabed while keeping track of its own current location, and to provide on-the-fly array calibration. When the system is aided by an external subsea positioning system, SLAM can be operated with only one transponder and delivers sparse array-operating capacity. Ramses can be either used in standalone mode or combined with other positioning systems to improve overall performance.

3D imaging sonar

Subsea visualization specialist SRD has introduced Eclipse, a new sonar imaging system with 3D measurement capability. Aimed at the ROV market, it is suited for all but the smallest subsea vehicles. A single housing incorporates an orthogonal pair of dual transmit-and-receive multibeam arrays, operating at 240 kHz with a range of up to 120 m. Eclipse uses SRD’s electronic transmit beam-shaping technology. The system can be used in volume-visualization, forward-looking and profile-imaging modes. 3D volume visualization provides a realistic graphical representation of scanned objects. By electronically steering the horizontal or vertical transmit beam, successive scans illuminate a volume ahead of the sonar over a 120° × 45° field of view. This is converted in real time into a full 3D image. A scan rate up to 140 kHz is possible at close range, with a 7-Hz update rate at 100-m range. Additional flexibility allows the user to generate images in either vertical or horizontal planes, with a measurement tool providing range and bearing to any acoustic target. In forward-looking mode, the transmit beam is electronically shaped to provide an instantaneous wide field of view. In the profile-imaging mode, the vertical or horizontal transmit beam is electronically narrowed for enhanced measurement capability.

Safety gauge

Winters Instruments’ Safety Case Gauge is designed to be used where safety is a major concern. With a solid front and blowout back, this gauge features a 0.5% ANSI/ASME Grade 1A accuracy, full rotary movement and a micrometer pointer for easy calibration. The 4.5-in. dial makes the gauge easy to read from a distance. Also, 4-in. and 6-in. dials and 1% accuracy gauges are available. The gauge is designed for use in the oil and gas industries, where high-pressure build-up may cause ruptures in the bourdon tube. A solid wall separates the tube from the gauge face, forcing the back to blow out in case of catastrophic failure. It also features a shatter-proof safety glass lens.

Durable torque wrench

Norbar Torque Tools Inc. has introduced the TruTorque, a durable wrench that is designed to stay in calibration even when used regularly in demanding environments. Adjustment is simple, with the coarse scale on the handle and a micrometer for fine setting. The wrench adjusts with fingertip control over the whole length of the scale, and it features an ergonomic grip design with high slip resistance in all conditions. The five TruTorque models range from 15 to 221 ft-lb of torque, with accuracy of ±3%, and offer bidirectional control.

Seismic vessel

PGS has launched Ramform Sovereign, the newest seismic vessel in its fleet. It is 16 m longer than its sister PGS vessels, with significantly higher acquisition and transit speed, 25% longer endurance and 60% higher production capacity. The Sovereign is the most powerful seismic ship in the world, with a power plant supplying 30,000 hp. The vessel features the world’s first roll-compensated helideck, steerable sources, dual workboat capacity and unique gear-handling systems. The Ramform series is designed to have as little noise as possible from the vessel itself during data acquisition. The first of the Ramform vessels was launched by PGS in 1995. They were the first vessels to tow 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 streamers.