The intelligent Circulation While Drilling tool (iCWD) enables the drilling operator to retrieve Radioactive (RA) sources installed in 3rd party downhole Logging While Drilling (LWD) tools, where applicable, ensuring a high level of safety and environmentally friendly drilling operation.
A full test was conducted demonstrating the unique ability of iCWD to enable LWD Radioactive (RA) source fishing and retrieval. The test was conducted at the operating base in Labuan Malaysia using all fishing assemblies and equipment used in an actual fishing operation. For safety reasons, the test was conducted using a dummy RA source depicting exact geometry of the actual source. The iCWD full-bore design allows for free mechanical access through the tool to reach the LWD and retrieve the Radioactive (RA) source even after being activated several times. The iCWD full-bore enables the fishing assembly to pass through and retrieve the RA source to the surface without restriction.
The test was witnessed by Petronas and was performed with the support of a major LWD service provider.
Radioactive sources (RA) are commonly used for formation evaluation to identify formation porosity and density. It is a common element in both Wireline Logging and Logging While Drilling equipment, LWD. When drilling highly deviated and horizontal wells in depleted fields there are many factors that can contribute to the possibility of a stuck pipe. Certain models of LWD are designed to enable operator retrieving the RA source in the stuck pipe. When the LWD is equipped with a retrievable RA source technology, it becomes the most economical and environmentally friendly method of dealing with radioactive sources inside a stuck bottom hole assembly. It is paramount to have sufficient ID through all the string above the LWD to enable the fishing assembly reaching and latching onto the RA fishing head. The ID has to be sufficient as well to allow for free passage of the retrieve the RA source back to surface. The intelligent Circulation While Drilling sub (iCWD) allows for a free mechanical access through the tool to reach the LWD and retrieve the RA source even after being activated many times. The full-bore through iCWD enables the fishing assembly to pass through and retrieved the RA source to surface without restriction. .
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