Target analysis and wellpath ellipses of uncertainty along a proposed wellbore, viewed in conjunction with structural models, can greatly reduce the risk associated with many drilling hazards.
Well-site Information Transfer Standard Markup Language (WITSML) is the industry standard for transferring well site information (obtained via MWD and LWD tools) in an XML format from drilling rigs to other locations. Data obtained from disparate surface and downhole tools can be collected and centrally managed by WITSML servers. With the proper software, these data can be accessed and analyzed by members of the asset management team to opens in a new windowguide reservoir development and operations.
WITSML data can play a vital role in improving drilling accuracy and efficiency. Wellbore data acquired from drilling rigs and maintained in a WITSML server can be integrated with a 3D model of the geologic structure and be
opens in a new windowused to monitor drilling progress and conditions. In comparison to attempting to individually evaluate the diverse datasets, combining and evaluating these data together provides a holistic perspective of drilling operations.
WITSML Data Guides Drilling Operations in Near-Real-Time
The WITSML standard covers a wide range of drilling and completion data generated by MWD, LWD, or wireline tools—drill string configuration, lithology, gamma ray, temperature, pressure, azimuth and inclination, torque, speed, alarms and events, well logs, mud logs, and well trajectories.
With near-real-time access to WITSML data, drilling engineers monitor the location and trajectory of a wellbore using Measured depth (MD), azimuth, inclination, gamma ray, and mud log data. MD, azimuth, and inclination are used together to approximate the location of the drill bit. Gamma ray emissions reveal the type of rock formation being drilled and confirm the wellbore location relative to known formations depicted by geologic models. Mud log data can also confirm drill-bit locations relative to stratigraphic markers. Combined, these data allow drilling engineers to cross-correlate data to provide a more accurate approximation of drill bit progress and wellbore location.
As drilling progresses, additional wellbore data generated by MWD and LWD tools and sent to the WITSML server can be accessed, integrated, and visualized with existing geologic models to provide a 3D model of drilling progress available to all members of a reservoir management team. With near-real-time visualization and analysis, engineers can compare the planned trajectory against actual trajectory, receive early warnings of potential hazards that could impede drilling progress, and develop viable alternatives that balance risk with drilling efficiency.
CoViz 4D Utilizes WITSML Data to Improve Drilling Accuracy
Drilling engineers can obtain the greatest value from WITSML data by employing
CoViz 4D to integrate WITMSL data with
opens in a new windowgeologic models. CoViz 4D is a powerful software tool that enables all members of an asset management team to simultaneously view and interrogate a wide range of datasets (regardless of the original data source) that characterize hydrocarbon assets.
CoViz 4D monitors WITSML servers to automatically access updated drilling data and combines WITSML data with the geologic model to visualize the current location and progress of the wellbore and drill bit. CoViz 4D delivers additional benefit, giving drilling engineers the ability to:
CoViz 4D can also give drilling engineers a better understanding of drill bit performance data such as rotational speed, downhole temperature, vibration, torque, and mud flow. Drilling engineers can evaluate drilling performance in the context of current drill location and the surrounding geology to help prevent tool failure by ensuring downhole tools are operating within their technical limits.
Visualization is Key to Improving Drilling Accuracy
CoViz 4D allows all professionals involved in well drilling to evaluate near-real-time WITSML drilling information in conjunction with geologic models and predetermined drill paths and targets. Collaborative visualization and analysis of wellbore progress and drill bit performance enables drilling engineers to proactively identify potential drilling problems and make appropriate corrections. CoViz 4D enhances the value of WITSML data and is an essential tool for engineers intent on improving drilling accuracy.
