ProTechnics Technical Bibliography

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• Real-Time Analysis on a Drillstem Test Using Wireless Telemetry, Kent Holder, Halliburton Energy Services, Dick Heine, ProTechnics, Doug Perschke, Marathon Oil Co., Southwest Petroleum Short Course1997.
  

  ABSTRACT

  Real-Time Analysis on a Drillstem Test Using Wireless Telemetry

  The openhole drillstem test (DST) has changed little in the last 30 years; however, pressure-transient analysis recently has made significant advancements. Modern electromagnetic telemetry systems are the basis for an economical method of transmitting pressure and temperature readings in real time. Improvements in information technology now allow advanced on-site analysis. This paper provides an overview of an openhole test, describes the components used during real-time analysis, and discusses the case history for a real-time job in Andrews County, TX.
  

  The openhole test is a common method of formation evaluation that is most often used during the drilling phase of the well. To determine reservoir content, downhole tools allow a zone of interest to produce. Downhole gauges record changes in pressure during the test, providing data that later can be analyzed to determine reservoir characteristics. Designing and performing a conclusive test is difficult when key reservoir parameters, such as permeability, reservoir description, and bottomhole pressure, are not known. On a standard test, the operator must wait until the tools are retrieved before:
  

  • determining if the test was mechanically successful
  • analyzing the data
  • determining if the test was conclusive
  • determining the next step for the well

  Real-time data analysis allows the operator to conduct a conclusive test, analyze the data, and determine the next step, often before the tools are out of the well. The time saved by analyzing the data in real time reduces rig costs and provides owners with more time to review the well data.