Downhole Tools for Precision in Petroleum
Deep insight with 3D seismic sensors
The petroleum industry relies on downhole tools to gather critical data, optimize drilling and production operations, and ensure overall efficiency and longevity.
The 3D seismic sensor is lowered into an oil well to listen for vibrations. The operator can then gather real-time seismic data and visualize the geological formations surrounding the oil field near the tool. The operators can then steer the drill bit to maximize oil production. These tools are designed to operate in the harsh conditions found deep within oil wells — determining the presence of hydrocarbons, estimating reservoir properties, and optimizing production.
MTSI developed one such tool to assist our clients in making informed decisions about their production strategies.
High-speed telemetry
The PCB and protective tube was configured into a pressure vessel that hanged at the end of a long cable which is lowered into the oil well. This device was powered by a twisted pair of wires for both high-speed telemetry and power using VDSL signaling.
The system had a very high pressure and temperature rating for deep wells.
The hybridized CPU read triple 24-bit A/D convertors for sound measurement in 3-axis to very high sensitivity. The 24-bit audio encoded 144 dB of dynamic range, allowing for detection of very faint noises.
DSP array processor
A seismic crew in a truck thumps the ground near the well with a heavy weight. The sensor then gathers sound waves in all three directions and sends the sound waves to the above-ground DSP array processor via a custom DSL link.
Those vibration trucks travel along designated north/south routes applying hydraulic pressure at 160-foot intervals. These seismic waves are then picked up by by the downhole tool. The trucks are fitted with “sand” tires to lessen their impact to the environment.
VDSL
The seismic tool operators use a VME-Board array processor to post-process the data stream and make images of the underground oil. The VME chassis also holds a custom VDSL board. VDSL stands for “very-high-bit-rate digital subscriber line,” and as the name implies, it is the fastest form of a DSL connection.
The system could handle up to 4,000 feet at 52 Megabits a second, plus power, over a single twisted pair. Longer cables can be used at a reduced data rate. In combination, MTSI’s commitment helped our client improve data consistency, speed of extraction, and improve their response to market needs.
| DSL Type | Max Send Speed | Max Receive Speed | Max Distance | Lines Required | Phone Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ADSL | 800 Kbps | 8 Mbps | 18,000 ft (5,500 m) | 1 | Yes |
HDSL | 1.54 Mbps | 1.54 Mbps | 12,000 ft (3,650 m) | 2 | No |
IDSL | 1.44 Kbps | 1.44 Kbps | 35,000 ft (10,700 m) | 1 | No |
MSDSL | 2 Mbps | 2 Mbps | 29,000 ft (8.800 m) | 1 | No |
RADSL | 1 Mbps | 7 Mbps | 18.000 ft (5.500 m) | 1 | Yes |
SDSL | 2.3 Mbps | 2.3 Mbps | 22,000 ft (6,700 m) | 1 | No |
VDSL | 16 Mbps | 52 Mbps | 4,000 (1.200 m) | 1 | Yes |