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Vol. 232 No. 6 |
Wireline-deployable ESP system
The Zeitecs Nautilus ESP shuttle systems, where the entire ESP system (pump, seal and motor) can be run and retrieved on wireline, are now fully commercial. Unlike in older-generation cable-deployed systems, an ultra-strong DC coaxial power cable is used to run and suspend the Nautilus system. Downhole DC-to-AC power conversion modules allow use of standard, readily available ESP components. Furthermore, integral isolation pack-off devices allow the system to be deployed in plain tubing/casing without a tubing seal or sealbore. Every component (and potential failure mode) is fully retrievable from the well without rig or hoist, and complete throughbore access is available for reservoir intervention. The ESP provides a flowrate of 300–20,000 bpd with tubular or annular flow. With standard ESP metallurgy and utilizing standard ESP components, the system has a maximum operating temperature of 125°C. It is especially suitable for remote locations, where rig interventions are problematic.
Plug-in for geophysical software suite LMKR has released a plug-in for its GeoGraphix Discovery Suite that integrates with Convofy, a private social network. Convofy is from Scrybe, a technology company that has been funded by Adobe Systems Inc. and LMKR. The plug-in brings real-time, in-context collaboration features of Convofy to E&P asset management teams by enabling users of GeoGraphix to push images, files and content, share the information and discuss options.
Testing system for emergency valves
For partial stroke testing of valves without overshoot risk or process interruption, Netherlocks offers the Faith test system. The system allows online testing of emergency shutdown or high- integrity pressure protection system (HIPPS) valves, to reduce degradation and ensure that they operate properly should the need arise. The system integrates into a valve’s static and dynamic couplings, replacing the original coupling and spool piece. During partial stroke testing, mechanical steel blocking pins ensure that the dynamic coupling can only turn to the preset test angle to allow flow to continue through the valve during the test without risking overshoot. All Faith systems can be customized to fit directly between the valve and the actuator without additional brackets. Models are available for both linear and rotating actuators. Electronic switches can also be added to the system to allow the control room to monitor the test.
Formation evaluation and analysis Paradigm has introduced Geolog 7, its petrophysical analysis system for formation evaluation specialists. Geolog is based on Paradigm’s Epos 4 data management solution and is integrated with StratEarth and SKUA geological interpretation and model-building solutions, together offering a toolset for exploration and development geologists. The software features a complete interface redesign with easy user configuration and one-click operation for routine tasks, drag-and-drop data loading, a comprehensive audit trail, a new interactive core analysis module including capillary pressure and saturation height modeling, and interactive dip-azimuth walkout plots to help geologists analyze structural regimes.
Rig-safe compressor booster
Atlas Copco has introduced the Hurricane B18-62/2250 compressor booster for the oil and gas industry. This version of the booster provides 2,185 cu ft/min. at 2,250 psi in two-stage mode, with a 350-psi suction pressure. The B18-62/2250 is built into a specially adapted DNV 2.7-1 certified 20-ft ISO container equipped for offshore requirements. As a rig-safe booster, it features an inlet shutdown valve and spark arrestor, along with an optional air starter. It has flame-resistant anti-static fan belts, a battery-box and battery-isolator switch, and visible and audible alarms. It is also equipped with two emergency stops situated on the exterior of the container and a connection for an external shutoff signal, known as a platform shutdown or yellow alert. Other safety features include over-speed protection, an external fuel cut-off valve and stainless steel braided fuel lines.
Reservoir modeling software
Baker Hughes has introduced the next generation of its JewelSuite reservoir modeling software. JewelSuite 2011 is an integrated reservoir modeling tool that uses 3D gridding technology to build accurate reservoir models for fields with complex geology. The platform also provides connectivity between its generated models and reservoir simulators—a capability designed to further improve overall simulation accuracy. The software features technologies that extend its scope and associated subsurface 3D modeling workflows, including a new approach to earth modeling collaboration, linked software platforms to enhance workflows, more powerful processing via multithreading and multicore functionality, and enhanced workflows for modeling unconventional reservoirs. New collaboration functionality built into the software suite allows team members to share pertinent information with or without a traditional hub-and-spoke database approach, allowing productivity regardless of location or Internet connectivity. New audit trail, object-tracking and baseline modeling functionality enables team members and management to track and control the quality of subsurface models; i.e, how they were built and the assumptions and decisions used in their construction. The software also includes microseismic visualization capabilities, which, together with the program’s ability to create different scenarios to test flowrates based on orientation of fractures and horizontal well placement, further improves the workflow for development of unconventional reservoirs.
Hydraulic torque wrench testers
Norbar Torque Tools has introduced a new range of products for testing hydraulic torque wrenches with torque ranges from 185 ft-lb to 59,000 ft-lb. Comprised of a hydraulic tool calibration fixture and a transducer linked to a torque measurement instrument, these devices accurately calibrate both square-drive and hexagon-link torque wrenches. The testers are designed for end-user companies that want to avoid the costs and potential delays of using a calibration subcontractor; for tool rental companies that must ensure that their wrenches are calibrated prior to leasing; and for calibration and tool repair companies or laboratories that offer calibration services. Hydraulic torque wrenches find increased use in industries that have concurrent demands for calibration traceability from industry and regulatory authorities. A wide range of Norbar hex-to-square-drive adaptors ensure that these test pots are compatible for most hydraulic torque wrenches. Three versions of the hydraulic tool calibration fixtures have capacities of 5,160 ft-lb, 36,875 ft-lb and 59,000 ft-lb, respectively, and are compatible with a range of Norbar transducers extending from 13/4- in. to 31/2- in. square drives. Transducer capacity ranges are from 184–1,840 ft-lb up to 5,900–59,000 ft-lb.
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