Geology and Formation Evaluation

The first Wireline course module provides insight into the basics of reservoir geology: defining a formation and how they are evaluated. The basics of surface reflection seismic testing and how it can be used to evaluate a potential reservoir is described. Finally, the role of wireline logging tools in the evaluation of hydrocarbon traps and in helping operating companies decide their next move is discussed.

What is Wireline Logging

This second Wireline module introduces well logging, what it is used for, and summarizes the history of wireline logging, including the development of significant tool and wellsite operational and recording technologies. The primary applications of wireline logging are described and wireline operational modes, i.e., electric line and slickline, are discussed. Formation evaluation is defined, and how formations can be examined to help determine their commercial potential is explained.

OpenHole Tools and Formation Evaluation

In this module, the importance of formation evaluation is examined. The module explores the different critical rock properties provided by different wireline tools, e.g., resistivity and porosity, along with a brief description of the tool principles used to make the measurements. In addition to conventional resistivity, acoustic and nuclear porosity, and gamma-ray logging tools, NMR and borehole imaging tools are covered. The importance of data obtained by wireline core and fluid sampling tools is also emphasized.

Cased Hole

The fourth module describes casing a well and the roles of different cased-hole wireline logging tools, such as, cement and casing integrity and production monitoring, and the principles behind the tool measurements. These measurements are essential for avoiding costly production problems. Specialized cased-hole logging tools used for formation evaluation are discussed. Some of the sophisticated software tools needed to interpret the data acquired by many cased-hole logging tools explained. These software tools can create interpretative models and also help develop intervention programs that address production issues.

Wireline Equipment and Well Intervention

The fifth wireline module teaches operational procedures for running wireline logging devices, including how to attach and check that logging tools are properly attached to the wireline, and operating the winch. Maintaining proper wellhead pressure control, via use of a “Christmas Tree” and a BOP stack, and the importance of maintaining proper grease pressure during wireline intervention are also explained.

Tool Safety

The sixth module covers basic wireline tool safety—Nothing is more important when working on a rig than safety. Awareness is the key to avoiding incident or injury. This module stresses the importance of good communication and double checking procedures. The reasons behind the separate sets of stringent rules governing radioactive and explosive tools are explained. Common rigsite risks and dangers that can accompany wireline logging operations, such as static electricity, high pressures associated with fluid and pressure testing tools, and the extreme danger of H2S gas are explained, and how following simple safety steps can save lives.

Collaborative Data and Oilfield Modeling

This last module in the Wireline Operations course is a culmination of what has been learned so far. This includes a description of how computer models representing the geology of an entire field can be developed from the combination of surface seismic data and wireline data from just a few boreholes. Also, how computer reservoir simulations using predictive applications are run to predict reservoir performance for the entire field. These simulations substantially increase overall savings, while reducing the time needed to develop the field and eliminating unnecessary equipment and injuries to personnel.