Drilling & Evaluation

TRAINING &
DEVELOPMENT
MWD Academy Manual

MWD Class Pre-Read

Surface Hardware
Table of Contents
Pre-Read Overview .................................................................................. 3
MWD Cabin Installation ........................................................................... 4
Introduction .................................................................................................... 4
Objectives ...................................................................................................... 4
Resources ....................................................................................................... 4
Cabin Setup .................................................................................................... 5
Questions for Cabin Installation PreRead ......................................................... 11
Sensors & Displays................................................................................. 12
Introduction .................................................................................................. 12
Objectives .................................................................................................... 12
Resources ..................................................................................................... 12
Sensor Options and Setup .............................................................................. 13
Sensors ........................................................................................................ 16
Hookload Sensor ........................................................................................... 16
Block Height Encoder..................................................................................... 17
Block Height Wireline Sensor .......................................................................... 18
Standpipe Pressure Sensor ............................................................................. 19
Pump Stroke Counter Sensor.......................................................................... 20
Displays........................................................................................................ 21
RD2 - Remote Driller‟s Dial II ......................................................................... 21
Remote Driller‟s Dial (RDD) ............................................................................ 22
Depth System Calibration ............................................................................... 22
Review Questions for Sensors and Display....................................................... 23
Surface Acquisition Systems .................................................................. 24
Introduction .................................................................................................. 24
Objectives .................................................................................................... 24
Resources ..................................................................................................... 24
SARA I Service Overview ............................................................................... 25
SARA I Description ........................................................................................ 25
BAP PC Rear View ......................................................................................... 29
SARA II Service Overview .............................................................................. 30
Introduction .................................................................................................. 30
SARA II Description ....................................................................................... 30
SARA II Operation ......................................................................................... 31
SARA II Features & Hardware changes ........................................................... 32
SARA II Hardware features ............................................................................ 33
Hardware Setup ............................................................................................ 34
S.M.A.R.T Service Overview ........................................................................... 35
Review Questions - Surface Acquisition Systems .............................................. 43

Page 2
Pre-Read Overview

The purpose of this pre-read is to prepare you for the Measurement While Drilling
(MWD) Directional-Gamma (DG) Academy. Each section should be completed prior to
attending the relevant instructor-led training. It is designed to further your
understanding of the relevant MWD services by building on the prerequisite web-based
activities that you will complete prior to attending the classroom training.

This document is one of four main sections:

1. NaviTrak Probe Service
2. Surface Hardware
3. Directional Service
4. Telemetry

Each section will contain several topics to read, and will also give some references to
specific TechPubs references that should be read in conjunction with this document.
There are also research and review questions presented throughout the document to
help direct your learning.

At the beginning of the coordinating module in the course, your instructor will expect
you to be familiar with and be able to discuss the information contained each of these
sections.

Page 3
 MWD Cabin Installation
Introduction
This section will introduce the MWD cabin and will provide a foundation for the topics
that will be covered during the relevant classroom training and practical exercises.
Participants are expected to complete this section of the document prior to attending
the MWD Surface Hardware component of the MWD DG Academy.

Objectives
After working through this guide, participants will be able to:

Identify the typical rig site requirements needed for cabin operations
Identify the purpose of the rig site zone classification system
Define the level of explosive risk which exists within each hazardous zone
Ensure the cabin is appropriately located in the zone that corresponds with its
rating
State the need for locating the cabin where required rigsite utilities can be easily
accessed
Define the purpose of cabin pressurization systems
List typical requirements for the safe operation of a pressurized system
List the key areas of the cabin that should be inspected upon arrival
List the equipment that needs to be installed for safe cabin operation
Define the purpose and function of the cabin transformer

Resources
Much of the material within this section refers to operations procedures available at
TechPubs Online. Specific reference is made to the following documents, which
participants should review:

1. MWD-07-014EARC - EARC Cabin Operating Instructions

2. MWD07-014EARC - Cabin operating instructions
3. EARC-20-52-0000-00-39 - EARTHING CHECKS INTEQ SLS MWD UNITS
4. EARC-20-52-0000-00-43 - Sensor and Cable Installation
5. GOP-20-02-007 - Rig-Site Orientation
6. MEAP-GOP-20-20-0000-04-07 - MWD-Rig-up Procedures
7. MEAP-GOP-20-52-0000-06-04 - MWD-SLS Cabin Earthing Standards
8. QP600-001 - Inspection & Survey of Used D&E Offshore
9. SLS-20-06-001 - A60Zone 1 Integrated Surface Cabin Technical Data Sheet
10. SLS-20-60-0000-30 - A0Zone 1 Integrated Surface Cabin

Page 4
Cabin Setup
RigSite Requirements for Cabin Operation

Power Requirement: Our Cabins are capable of handling 308, 400, 440, 460 or
480 VAC. 50/60 Hz. Get information from the Rig will supply
us and electrician on what voltage the Rig will supply.
Power cables should be run in a safe place and protected
from any moving object.

Supplied Air: Requires 100 psi rig air for shutdown system

Pressurization System:

The cabin is maintained under positive

pressure via a blower system, in which air
is pumped in through a hose from a
“clean” area, ensuring that explosive and
other hazardous gases cannot enter the
unit. Internal displays show drilling and
evaluation parameters and trends all the
MWD to monitor operations.

Page 5
 Rig Zone Classification System

Objective:

o To be able to understand basic nomenclature associated with hazardous

areas and explosion protection
o Description of Hazardous Location Classifications

Electrical Equipment in Hazardous Areas:

In Electrical Engineering, a hazardous location is defined as a place where

concentrations of flammable gases, vapors, or dust occur.

Zones and Divisions:

In any industrial operations, there may be several areas where flammable

concentrations of gas, vapors or dust can be expected, either routinely or
intermittently. The goal of area classification is to avoid ignition of flammable
releases, which may occur in the operation of facilities. The intent is to reduce
flammable concentrations in the air to an acceptable minimum level, thereby
reducing the probability of a flammable atmosphere and an ignition source occurring
at the same time. Equipment is matched to the hazardous area.

Area classification is the division of a facility into three-dimensional hazardous areas

and non-hazardous areas and the subdivision of the hazardous area into „Zones‟.

Levels of Explosive Risk within Hazardous Zones

Flammable Gases and Vapor's

An area in which an explosive atmosphere is constantly present, or
Zone 0
present for long periods

An area in which an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur in normal

operation
Zone 1
(Rough Guide: 10 hours or more / year but less than 1,000 hours /
year)
An area in which an explosive atmosphere is not likely to occur in
Zone 2 normal operation and if it occurs, it will exist only for a short time.
(Rough Guide: Less than 10 hours / year)

Page 6
Cabin Location:

Depending on the ratings, our cabins can be in a Zone 1 or Zone 2 area and cabins
should be placed in a location where safe entry and exit is possible via the main door
and emergency exit.
Emergency exit should ideally be pointing towards a safe area i.e. don‟t angle both exits
so they are pointing at the BOP/ Well head.

Lemo cables should only be run in a safe route. Do not cross walkways. Use cable trays.
Ensure the cabin is positioned in a location that will require only the minimum length of
lemo cables to be run to reach sensor locations.

Page 7
Purpose of Cabin pressurization system:

It is a system in place to protect the MWD unit and personnel from hazardous
conditions such as gas and fire. Without a pressurized system, the cabin will not be able
to prevent gas from entering the cabin from outside (see Fig 1). With a pressurized
cabin, on the other hand, gas cannot enter the cabin and this will protect the crew
against any hazards (Fig 2).

Fig 1

For the list of equipment needed to run this pressurization system, please refer to the
TechPubs document MWD07-014EARC.

Page 8
Visual inspection:

Upon arrival and before the Field Representative could start rigging up and using the
cabin, he/she needs to do a visual inspection of some key areas of the cabin:

Cabin Hatches:

Cabin hatches need to be visually inspected

to make sure they are working properly and
they are not stuck or obstructed by
anything. Special attention needs to be
given to hatch covers that need to be
removed such as cover plates that cover
the fan outlet to protect it. Transit covers
also need to be removed because these are
just used to protect some of the cabin
components while in transit.

The Field Representative needs to remove transit plate from under the air exhaust port
cover - front of unit, same side as escape hatch. He/she also needs to open the A/C
hatch cover (Right of door).

Window:

The Field Representative needs to make sure the

windows are in excellent conditions and that there are
no cracks or damage on any part of these windows.
The Field Representative needs to open window
covers and remove the escape hatch bar locking pin.

Door covers:

These are used to protect doors from damage while in transit and they need to be
removed.

Other damage in transit:

The Field Representative needs to check the cabin thoroughly from the outside, making
sure no apparent damage occurred during transit.

Page 9
Cabin Transformer Setting:

Power supplied by the rig varies from 308V to 480V three phase, 50/60 Hz.
Check the main cabin transformer voltage selector switch and ensure it is set to match
the cabin input voltage. The cabin transformer will provide the 110/115V and 230/240V
power available to the Cabin Distribution Board, but only after completion of the purge
cycle or if the Cabin is being run in the safety shutdown override mode.
The Rig Electrician will provide information about the rig power supply rating and is
responsible for checking that the Cabin Transformer is set to the appropriate voltage
rating, which matches the rig supply rating

Page 10
Questions for Cabin Installation PreRead

The MWD Cabin is pressurized. What do we mean by this, and why is it done?

It is a system in place to protect the MWD unit and personnel from hazardous
conditions such as gas and fire. Without a pressurized system, the cabin will not be able
to prevent gas from entering the cabin from outside.

What is the purpose of the purge cycle when starting up the MWD Cabin?

Purge cycle must occur „automatically‟ for a specified time to remove any flammable
gases.
Standards specify min. purging equivalent to 5 times the internal volume of the
enclosure and associated ducting.

What are the 2 supplies we need to start up the MWD cabin?

Power and pressurized air from the rig

What are the requirements for the rig power and air supplied to the cabin?

Our Cabins are capable of handling 308, 400, 440, 460 or 480 VAC. 50/60 Hz.
Requires 100 psi rig air.

What is the purpose of the blower motor on the outside of the MWD cabin?

The blower motor keeps the cabin air supply pressurized that so gas cannot enter the
cabin and this will protect the crew against any hazardous fumes.

Why do we need Rig Zones and Divisions?

The aim of area classification is to avoid ignition of flammable releases that may occur
in the operation of facilities. The intent is to reduce to an acceptable minimum level the
probability of a flammable atmosphere and an ignition source occurring at the same
time.

Which zone will you position the MWD Cabin on the rig and why?
Depending on the ratings, our cabins can be on a Zone 1 or Zone 2 areas and cabin
should be placed in a location where safe entry and exit is possible via the main door
and emergency exit. Emergency exit should ideally be pointing towards a safe area i.e.
don‟t angle both exits so they are pointing at the BOP/ Well head.

Page 11
 Sensors & Displays
Introduction
This section will introduce the MWD surface hardware sensors and displays, providing a
foundation for the topics that will be covered during the classroom training and practical
exercises. Participants are expected to complete this section prior to attending the MWD
Surface Hardware component of the MWD DG Academy.

Objectives
After working through this guide, participants will be able to:

Define the function of surface sensors typically used in MWD service provision
Define the purpose of the main surface display components used in a typical
LWD service deployment
Identify the consequences of incorrect depth calibration on LWD service quality

Resources
Much of the material within this section refers to operations procedures, available online
at Baker Hughes “TechPubs”. Specific reference is made to the following documents,
which participants should review:

1. TechPubs>Operations>Surface Systems>Surface Hardware (various resources)

2. For questions about Advantage, consult the Help files within the application.

Page 12
Sensor Options and Setup
The following diagram explains the options and positions available for the sensors when
setting up a SARA II system. If using the SARA I system, use the configuration and
junction boxes for SARA I system. It is important not to mix analog and digital sensors
together on the junction boxes because they are isolated differently in the barriers in
SARA II. The sensors on the rig floor are intrinsically safe. The information below
explains the different rig zones:

 Zone 0
– An explosive gas-air mixture is continuously present or present
for long periods (e.g., enclosed storage tanks).
 Zone 1
– An explosive gas-air mixture is likely to occur in normal
operation (e.g, around the wellhead, the shakers).
 Zone 2
– An explosive gas-air mixture is not likely to occur or will only
occur for a short time (e.g., the pipe deck).

Page 13
This is a standard SARA II system setup, showing position of sensors and computers on
the network.

Page 14
Junctions Boxes for SARA I and SARA II
Systems
SARA I Junction box:

Must group same-colored sensors

together

BLUE – RDD, Pump Pressure, Hookload

RED – Depth Encoder, Cal Switch

GREEN – Spare Sensor, Torque

SARA II Junction box:

Page 15
Sensors

Hookload Sensor
The hookload sensor is a robust, field-proven device designed for accurate
measurement of deadline tension and therefore free hanging weight of the drillstring
(hookload) and calculated bit force (WOB) values. This sensor is a 4 – 20mA, two wired
analog sensor.

Operation
The sensor consists of a metal block encasing a strain gauge. The deadline is clamped
tightly to the hookload sensor, fixed points at opposing ends causing a slight bend in
the line. Increased weights on the blocks cause the deadline to straighten, increasing
the tension force on the strain gauge which translates into a signal indicating hookload.

Page 16
Block Height Encoder
This is a compact, intrinsically safe sensor designed for accurate measurement of
drawworks rotation and therefore rate of penetration, depth and pipe velocity values.
This is a two phase, digital, four wired sensor.

Application
Depth or bit depth is the primary value to which all other drilling parameters are
referenced. The shaft encoder picks up every minute movement on the drawworks and
therefore any vertical movement of the drillstring. This allows precise tracking of the
position of the bit and so it is important when monitoring drilling and tripping
operations. This sensor is easily installed on the main shaft of the drawworks (rigfloor
crew and rig mechanic should be informed before installation of this sensor). The
calibration of this sensor is done in SARA II configurator.

Operation
The shaft encoder fits between the rotoseal and the main shaft of the drawworks drum.
Rotational movement and therefore vertical drillstring movement is detected optically by
shining LED light through a graduated disk which rotates with the drawworks shaft. The
pulses are then converted to vertical distance. The use of a calibration switch enables
the Field Representative to make layer changes during calibration of block height
sensor. This calibration switch needs to be configured in SARA II configurator.

Page 17
Block Height Wireline Sensor
The block height encoder sensor can also be adapted for use on a Geolograph system
by of a conversion kit. The Kelly height wire line sensor assembly consists of a rotating
wheel and idler pulley with a multi-position clamp-on device assembly. The drawworks
shaft encoder attaches to the mechanical assembly and then is positioned on the
Geolograph line to pick up movement of the travelling block. Rotational movement and
therefore vertical drillstring movement is detected optically by shinning LED light
through a graduated disk which rotates with the drawworks shaft. The pulses are then
converted into vertical distance.

Page 18
Standpipe Pressure Sensor
The standpipe pressure sensor was developed by Baker Hughes with GE Druck to
improve the quality of surface pressure readings. This is an analog, 4-20mA, two-wired
sensor. This sensor reads standpipe pressure values. It is available in 5,000psi,
10,000psi and 15,000psi ratings. The standpipe pressure sensor should be mounted
with a 1502 hammer union on the standpipe manifold.

Operation
The transducer is located at the standpipe manifold and measures the pressure of the
fluid being pumped through the drillstring. This sensor is calibrated by the manufacturer
but still needs to be configured in SARA II configurator. The option of using dual
pressure transducers is available but this needs to be configured in SARA II
configurator.

Page 19
Pump Stroke Counter Sensor
The pump stroke counter sensor is used to improve the quality of surface signal
decoding by tracking pump strokes and allowing the surface system to recognize pump
noise and then remove it from the signal when using a dual stand pipe pressure sensor
setup. This is an analog, 4-20mA, two-wired sensor. This sensor reads pump strokes by
sensing the proximity of the metal shaft as it moves to pump the drilling fluid downhole.

Installation
The pump stroke counter should be mounted on the pump housing with the provided
C-clamp. When installing, be sure the sensing area of the counter only passes by the
target area one time to ensure accurate counting of the pump strokes.

Page 20
Displays
Displays are not sensors. Rather, they are equipment that needs to be intrinsically
safe, mounted on the rigfloor and used to display data. They need to be safely secured
in strategic positions on the rig floor. There are various types of display available in
different regions and for different purposes.

RD2 - Remote Driller’s Dial II

This is a 10.4” TFT high-resolution flatscreen monitor for displaying directional and
engineering data in a zone 1 hazardous area. The SARA II system supports the use of
the RD-2 display. This display is used for
drillfloor information distribution,
displaying directional, AutoTrak,
VSS/CoPilot and ECD alphanumeric
displays and graphical plots. This unit is
a “zero setup” zone 1 EX area LCD
display.

Operation:
A standard keyboard and PS/2 mouse
can be connected to the device as
necessary for setup purposes via a
service adaptor cable. There are options
of preset displays which allow a
standardized output and these are
toggled via the eight membrane function
keys on the front of the displays. This
allows displays of multiple data sets and
active, real-time documentation of harsh
drilling conditions for the driller and the
operator. This assists the operator in
reducing downhole tool failure and rig
downtime.

Page 21
Remote Driller’s Dial (RDD)
The Remote Driller‟s Dial (RDD) application is used to update the
Remote Driller‟s Dial, normally located on the drill floor, with
realtime directional information (Toolface, Azimuth and
inclination). The RDD is supported by the SARA I system and
Junction box. The HSTDecode, MWDecode, and SvvcPrc
programs send DATAWORD messages to the Message Server
which, in turn, routes them to the RDD via the SARA I junction
box and lemo cables. The Advantage program RDD can also be
used to test communications with the Dial by sending known
patterns of data.

Depth System Calibration

The proper calibration of the depth tracking system is vital to Baker Hughes Formation
Evaluation (FE) service quality. If an inaccurate depth calibration is used, then all FE
measurements along with survey measurements taken, will be incorrect, hence all
deliverables to the customer will be inaccurate. Possible consequences of a mistake of
this magnitude could be but not limited to, inaccurate final deliverables, missed
geological targets, possible collision with nearby wells, loss of current and future
revenue and damage to Baker Hughes reputation as a leading oil field services
Company.

Page 22
Review Questions for Sensors and Display
1. Why should you not mix analog and digital sensors in the same junction box?

It is important not to mix analog and digital sensors together on the junction boxes
because they are isolated differently in the barriers in SARA II.

2. Distinguish between an analog and digital sensor.

Analog is a continuous electrical signal, whereas digital is a non-continuous electrical

signal.

3. Which Lemo cable is required to connect to the sensors from the junction boxes?

10-pin Lemo cables are used.

4. What is the correct mounting position of the hookload during installation?

Securely attached to the drill line a few feet above the deadline anchor with the cable
port pointing downward

5. Why do we need a WECO fitting for the pressure transducers?

We need to ensure that a 2” NPT WECO Figure 1502 Hammer union is used to provide
for adequate pressures – safety concern/policy.

6. Which Lemo cable connects the junction box to the back of the SARA II unit?

12-pin Lemo cables are used.

7. How many transducers are required for a DPT setup?

8. Which rig crew members needs to be informed to fit the depth encoder?

The rig floor crew and the rig mechanic should be informed.

9. In a SARA II System, which program is used to calibrate the surface sensors?

SARA II Configurator

10. What does intrinsically safe mean with respect to the sensors we use on the
rigfloor?

It means that they are sealed/contained and will not contribute or produce any sparks
that may result to combustion of any gas present in a hazardous work area.

Page 23
 Surface Acquisition Systems
Introduction
This section will introduce the MWD surface acquisition systems and will provide a
foundation for the topics that will be covered during the relevant classroom training and
practical exercises. Participants are expected to complete this section of the document
prior to attending the MWD Surface Hardware component of the MWD DG Academy.

Objectives
After working through this guide, participants will be able to:

Identify the key features and functions of each of the surface acquisition systems
Label available sensor and hardware configuration options for specified surface
acquisition systems

Resources
Much of the material within this section refers to operations procedures available at
TechPubs Online. Specific reference is made to the following documents, which
participants should review:

1. TechPubs>Operations>Surface Systems>Surface Hardware (various resources)

2. For questions about Advantage, consult the Help files within the application.

Page 24
SARA I Service Overview
SARA I Description
SARA I (Surface Acquisition Remote Area) is a first of two version models of the SARA
Acquisition system. It is a hybrid model of the two older P&F (copper cable) and
HAZARA (fiber optic) versions.

Both the SARA I and the HAZARA acquisition boxes are similar in function, and identical
in components, but they are housed differently. The routing of the signal back to the
cabin occurs on different media. A 12-pin copper cable is used for the SARA I while
fiber optic cable is the media for the HAZARA.

SARA I has the fiber optic interface converted to serial communication thus allowing the
SARA I to be used with the new Decoding PC replacing the older expensive BAP / DCI
(Baker Atlas PC/Digital Controller Interface) computers that used Windows NT platform,
The new decoding DELL computer supports windows XP and Window 2000.

Back View of SARA I System

Page 25
The SARA I acquisition box is housed in a 19 inch rack
mount. This unit contains the components to isolate,
condition, acquire, and transmit the surface signals to the
Real Time computer. Several types of computers were
used in the past as Real Time computers. The BAP/DCI
computer sometimes referred to as PAD (PC Acquisition
Device). The BAP/DCI computers were used until
recently when replaced by DELL decoding computers.

The SARA I connects to a variety of intrinsically safe

surface sensors (described previously), which are located
in the hazardous area (Zone 1 or Zone 2) via junction
boxes. The sensors connect to the junction boxes with
10-pin Lemo cables. The junction boxes are routed to the
rear of the SARA I module using 12-pin Lemo cables.
SARA I Hazardous Junction Box

The sensors‟ inputs are routed through the 4-12 pin LEMO sockets, in the back of the
SARA I, to a bank of safety barriers, which protect the sensor circuits. The analog
sensor inputs pass through a 4-channel filter card in the back of the SARA I to remove
high frequency noise. The analog signal from the filter card and the digital signal from
the barriers then connect to a controller Fig 2. The controller processes the digital
inputs and transmits the information over the fiber optic ARCNET1 card back to the
BAP/DCI computer.

Inside the SARA I

M4RTU
Processor
Analog Module
Barriers

Digital
Barriers
Power Supply
(F3 fuse)

Barriers
Internal
(F4) Fuse
Analog Filter
Card

1
ARCNET – Local Area Network(LAN) for realtime control application

Page 26
For Rev B SARA the controller interface in the back of the SARA I connects to the
Arcnet card in the back of the BAP/DCI computer as shown bellow.2

As for the SPP signal, it enters the SARA I via the rear 12 pin LEMO connection. The
signal is filtered and routed to the adapter card (M4RTU controller interface) and to the
3 pin Bendix (SPP output) connection on the rear of the SARA I box. The signal is
connected to the A/D NIDAQ card connector on the back of the real time BAP. The
NIDAQ card conditions and converts the analog SPP voltage to a Digital bit stream and
passes it to the processor of the BAP computer. The Pentium II processes the digital
SPP& sensor signals and sends data to the VGA & com port 2 for RDD display.

2
Refer to TA 3083 Convert SARA to serial communication

Page 27
 RDD & SPP connection between the SARA I and the BAP/DCI computer

The introduction of the new Dell Decoding computer eliminated the need for Arcnet
connections, rocket ports, and scusi cards. Sensor data are filtered and digitized using
the BEI filter card and the NIDAQ card; the two cards connect together using the NIDAQ
cable. Listed below are the two types of computers used to connect with SARA I.

Page 28
BAP PC Rear View

Plotter / Printer Output COM Port1 (P&F or Powercoms)

COM Port2 (Powercoms or RDD) NIDAQ card

Rocket Port com 3-10 SCSI Terminator

VGA Display Ethernet port – 10 Base T

Arcnet Card TX & RX Sound Card

Chart Rec Output SPP 2 Input

SPP 1 Input Filter Card

CPU Card Mouse Socket

Key board socket

Page 29
SARA II Service Overview

Introduction

The SARA II (Surface Area Remote Acquisition) unit is the newest generation data
acquisition processing system for MWD telemetry3 and decoding. It was designed to
allow the use of existing MWD sensor signals, some of which are exclusively for
decoding and other signals are passed to the “Advantage Surface System” for
processing. The SARA II system support mud pulse telemetry schemes, thus supporting
all legacy pulsers and the newer BCPM2 pulser.

The SARA II has improved analog to digital capabilities for higher resolution. An internal
DSP (Digital Signal Processer) is responsible for processing the signal and passing it to
the new Advantage Surface system for decoding² into data words.

SARA II Description

The SARA II system is specifically designed to acquire and process the MWD telemetry
signals in deep and harsh environment that have historically yielded unreliable MWD
transmission. The SARA II us a rig site safe 19‟‟ rack mount data acquisition device for
MWD telemetry decoding, which acquires signals from up to seven digital sensors and
seven analog surface sensors. The sensor data is further filtered and processed by
noise cancellation algorithms to retrieve high speed MWD telemetry signal sent by
downhole pulser.

3
Telemetry - is a set of encoded MWD words sent by the pulser to surface and later decoded by
surface computer

Page 30
SARA II Operation
The Junction Boxes used for the SARA II are wired differently to those used for SARA I.
Like the SARA I, the SARA II connects to the same variety of intrinsically safe surface
sensors, which are located in the hazardous area (Zone 1 or Zone 2). All sensors are
routed to the rear of the SARA II module via 12 pin Lemo‟s from the SARA II Hazardous
Area Junction Boxes.

The analog and digital signals outputted from

the above sensors are transformed and
resampled by a high resolution analog-to-
digital convertor to produce a low noise signal,
which is later processed in a special algorithm
designed to cancel out drilling and pump
noise. The resulted signals are transferred to
BHI‟s Advantage surface software system.
[Figure 3]

SARA II is used for telemetry decoding in

conjunction with positive mud pulse telemetry
transmitters such as NaviTrak, Teleco,
TeleTrak, BCPM and BCPM II pulsers. The
SARA II has significantly improved decoding
performance in several applications and harsh
drilling environments. The original MWD pulser
signal undergoes severe attenuation and
deformation prior to being detected by the
standpipe pressure (SPP) transducer. The
original downhole pulser signal is
reconstructed, and then the raw and
processed signals are made available to the
Advantage computers via the Ethernet
network in the MWD cabin.

Page 31
 Figure 3

SARA II Features & Hardware changes

Improved A/D capabilities for better resolution

Improved signal processing via DSP (upgradeable) with 1024 samples/sec.
Supports all current INTEQ pulsers, modulation, and encoding schemes
New dynamic sensors for increased resolution
Pump Noise Cancellation (PNC) to remove pump noise
Dual Pressure Transducer (DPT) algorithm to remove signal reflections ( for
combinatorial encoding)
New Zone 1 certified dynamic pressure sensor for use with BCPMII
New SARA II hazardous area junction boxes
Operates with standard PC with network interface - no expensive BAP computer
required
No BEI filter card, NIDAQ or ARCNET card needed
Doesn‟t support the old Remote Driller Dial (RDD)

Page 32
SARA II Hardware features

All MWD surface sensors input into the SARA II. The processed data is then sent to the
surface computer located in the MWD cabin, therefore removing the need for a NiDaq
or Opto card (rackmount PC). The Ethernet card in the SARA II enables it to have an IP
address. It is connected via network hub to the MWD PCs, and can be controlled from
any Advantage PC with versions 2.0 or above. Communication with SARA II and all
sensor calibration are performed via the SARA2Configurator software. A TCS decode
connection is also available to allow the Online Advantage computer to test decode
certain telemetry at surface. This connection is not active while decoding on bottom.

SARA II

Page 33
Hardware Setup

To summarize, the general hardware setup for Advantage PCs with SARA II acquisition
system includes:

All Advantage computers and SARA II are networked together by connecting

their Ethernet cards to a network switch or a hub using an Ethernet cable (RJ45).
Surface sensors are connected to the modified SARAII junction boxes using 10
pin Lemo cables.
All analog type sensors should be connected together to an analog junction box,
which later connect to J1 slot in the back of the SARA II via a 12 pin Limo cables.
If installing a torque sensor you need to connect to a separate analog junction
box and to J2 of the SARA II. Leave J2 slot empty if no torque sensor available.
All digital type sensors should be connected together to digital junction boxes,
which later connect to J3 & J4 slots in the back of the SARA II via a 12 pin Limo
cables.
Block height encoder must be connected to slot 2 of a digital junction box.

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S.M.A.R.T Service Overview
Introduction

The standard S.M.A.R.T. System consists of a totally integrated data acquisition

computer that combines an operator-interface panel with a full color active matrix TFT
flat screen display, a powerful PC-compatible CPU and a barrier (sensor input)
compartment, all mounted inside a compact, environmentally sealed, rugged enclosure.
The system is designed to perform in adverse industrial environments. The fully-
enclosed cabinet does not require external air for ventilation. Since there is no
exchange with outside air, the system provides dust-free and explosion-free operation.

S.M.A.R.T Description

The S.M.A.R.T. (Standalone MWD Advantage Rig floor Telemetry) System is a

customized system composed of a data acquisition computer, an operator interface
panel, a barrier (sensor input) compartment and a purge system, certified for operation
in Zone 1 locations.

Rig sensors, such as pump pressure, hookload, block height and pump stroke counters,
can be connected to the S.M.A.R.T. system for data acquisition. This system contains
the components (barriers) needed to isolate and condition the sensor signals, and to
acquire and decode the signals from the drilling rig.

The system is used with surface data acquisition Baker-Hughes MWD tools. With the
appropriate software, this system is capable of running many applications, from
directional-only to FE jobs.

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S.M.A.R.T. Box Operation

The S.M.A.R.T. box can be located in hazardous areas (Zones 1 or 2) as long as the
purge air system is connected. It can also be connected to a variety of intrinsically-safe
surface sensors. All sensors are routed to the rear of the S.M.A.R.T. box via 6 pin TURK
connections. If the sensors are configured for a 10 pin Lemo connection, a cross-over
cable may be required.

The supported sensors include both analog (stand pipe pressure and hookload sensor)
and digital (block height encoder and pump stroke counter). A cable diagram is located
on the back of the S.M.A.R.T. box.

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The S.M.A.R.T. box will be the on-line computer, when operating with more than one
computer system. It can process all sensor inputs and provide the output on the
display. If more than one computer is needed for drilling operations, the off-line
computer can be located in a cabin or other area. The information can be transmitted
wirelessly from the S.M.A.R.T. box to the off-line computer. The data is transmitted
line of sight, through a WAPZ via an Ethernet cable (CAT-5).

A Safe Area Radio is connected to the off-line computer to receive the signal. The off-
line computer can also control of the S.M.A.R.T. box through administrator software,
such as NetOps.

S.M.A.R.T. Box Depth Tracking

The S.M.A.R.T. box can maintain depth tracking through the use of a block height
encoder and a BEKA box. The BEKA box will receive the counts from the block height
encoder and convert them to be used with the S.M.A.R.T. box to monitor block position.
The block position is then added to the measured depth to maintain an accurate depth
in reference to the pipe tally. To ensure this accuracy, the BEKA box will need to be
calibrated to reflect the relationship between block position and counts provided by the
block height encoder.

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S.M.A.R.T. Box Specifications

System Specifications:
110/220 UAC Power, Steady State Current: 2A, F W Current: 3A
15" Sunlight-Viewable LCD with 1024 x 768 resolution
Standard LCD Brightness or Sunlight-Viewable LCDs
Full Membrane Keyboard (custom keyboards available)
CPU-Pentium III running at 1.26 GHz, minimum, BIOS Battery: 3V Lithium
512 MB System Memory (RAM) (Upgradeable)
20 GB Hard Drive
Operating Systems (Window XP software)
Standard Floppy Drive
Internal Heaters
I/O Connectors provided for standpipe pressure, pressure, hook load, block
height, RDD, pump stroke and spare 4-20 ma for model 023
Air Input Filtration System for Purge

Environmental Specifications:
Air Pressure: 40 to 120 PSIG
Flow: 5 SCFM
Internal Pressure (purged units): 0.5 to 17.6 millibar
Operating temperature: -40° to +50°C (-40° to +122°F) Temperatures below
+10°C are achieved through the use of internal heaters (80W max. at 90 VAC)
Storage temperature: -20°C to +60°C (-4° to +140F)
Surface Temperature does not exceed 135°C
Operating humidity: 10-85% (non-condensing)
Storage humidity: 0-100% (condensing)

Ratings:
SIRA Certified for use within Zone 1 hazardous areas requiring air purge system

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Hardware Features and Setup:

The S.M.A.R.T. box can be configured to run in a stand-alone mode or with an off-line
computer. It has the capability to process all sensor data and provide output via the
data screen or the RD2 (fiber optic display). Below is a figure listing the components of
both the front and back of the S.M.A.R.T. box.

Page 39
Attached are the three most common connections for drilling operations. Attachment 1
is for stand-alone operations. Attachment 2 is for stand-alone with depth tracking.
Attachment 3 is used for wireless operations with an off-line computer.

Directional Only Service S.M.A.R.T. Box Rig-up Diagram

Page 40
Stand Alone with Depth Tracking S.M.A.R.T. Box Rig-up Diagram

Page 41
S.M.A.R.T. Box Cabling Diagram

SMARTBOX WIRELESS
DEPTH 10/6 Lemo/Turck XO
ENCODER
OFF

BEKA H
CAL ON DELL U
BOX
B
SMK RJ-45/
CAT-5
HOOKLOAD

6-Pin Turck SAFE AREA

RADIO

PRESSURE RJ-45/ Coaxial w/

TRANSDUCER CAT-5 Antenna

25-Pin Parallel
Cable

RD2 Coaxial w/ PLOTTER PRINTER

WAPZ
Antenna

ZONE 1
SAFE AREA
Fiber Optic RD2

Page 42
Review Questions - Surface Acquisition Systems
1. What does the acronym SARA stand for?

Surface Acquisition Remote Area

2. What type of cable is used in establishing the Arcnet connection?

A fiber optic cable is used.

3. What types of computers may be used in conjunction with a SARA?

BAP’s/DCI’s and Dell Decoding PC’s can be utilized.

4. SARA II’s implement what type of cable in place of an Arcnet as seen in the
SARA I?

Ethernet Cable

5. Can SARA I and SARA II junction boxes be used interchangeably?

No, internally they are wired differently.

6. The introduction of the new Dell Decoding computer eliminated the need for what
types of hardware?

Arcnet connections, Rocket Ports, and NIDAQ cards

7. What does the acronym S.M.A.R.T. stand for?

Standalone MWD Advantage Rig floor Telemetry.

8. The surface sensors are connected where in a S.M.A.R.T. setup?

The cables from the surface sensors connect directly into the back of the S.M.A.R.T.
Box. No junction boxes are used because the S.M.A.R.T. Box isolates and conditions
the signals itself.

9. What is a BEKA box used for?

It is used to monitor block position and perform a block height calibration in a

S.M.A.R.T. system.

10. A S.M.A.R.T. Box with only an SPP would be used for which type of service?

Directional only

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