Chapter 5-E

SAUDI ARAMCO WORKOVER MANUAL
Drilling Technical Department September 2013
CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

SECTION E LOGGING WHILE DRILLING
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LOGGING WHILE DRILLING

1.0 INTRODUCTION
Back
2.0 Logging While Drilling Logs
2.1 Gamma ray

2.1.1 Gamma Ray Image
2.2 Resistivity
2.2.1 Propagation Resistivity
2.2.2 Resistivity Image
2.2.3 Deep Azimuthal Resistivity
2.2.4 Laterologs
2.3 Density
2.3.1 Density-image
2.3.2 Photo Electric Factor
2.4 Neutron Porosity.

2.5 Sonic.
2.6 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR
2.7 Caliper
2.7.1 Ultrasonic Caliper
2.7.2 Density Derived Caliper
2.8 Formation Tester

2.8.1 Pressure while drilling sensors
2.8.2 Fluid Sampling and Identification
2.9 Telemetry Systems

2.9.1 Mud Pulsers/Positive/Negative/Continuous/BPS/Data Density
2.9.2 Electromagnetic telemetry systems
2.9.3 Wired pipe telemetry
2.9.4 LWD tools down linking
2.10 Vibrations/Down hole Drilling Mechanics sensors

2.11 New Technology (Source-less formation evaluation tools and
others)
2.12 LWD services names cross-reference and acronyms
3.0 The Saudi ARAMCO Geosteering Center


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LOGGING WHILE DRILLING
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Schlumberger*, BakerHughes INTEQ, Sperry-Halliburton, Weatherford-

Precision Drilling are on contract to Saudi ARAMCO to provide all Logging
While Drilling (LWD) services with a rig on the well. Each company also
provides unique specialty logging services with the provision that some of the
tools have to be brought into the Kingdom at short notice. The LWD
requirements for all rigs are split between the four Service Companies such
that each is assigned or responsible for all the logging work on a particular
rig. If the situation arises where the rig-assigned Service Company cannot
meet its obligation to log a well for any reason, then the Foreman has the
option to call on the other Services Companies.
1.2 It is important for the rig Foreman to give ample advanced notice to the
Service Companies when requesting logging service. Ten to twelve-hour
notice is not uncommon since the tools have to be inspected and functionally
tested prior to usage. For specialty tools and services, notification should be
made weeks or even months in advance to insure availability when needed.
*Note: Through the merger with Smith International, PathFinder has joined
Schlumberger and is now the Schlumberger MLWD service provider.
2.0 Logging While Drilling Logs
Measurement While Drilling (MWD) is generally taken to refer to simpler drilling-

type measurements such as hole deviation, inclination, vibrations, down hole
pressure and temperature while LWD is taken to refer to log-type measurements
such as resistivity, density and so on.
An LWD tool consists of three elements, i.e. downhole sensors, data transmission
system and a surface interface. The logging sensors are placed just behind the bit
in specialized drilling collar and are active during drilling. The signal from the
sensors is transmitted to the surface, generally in digital format, by pulse telemetry
through the drilling mud and collected by surface receivers. The signals are
converted to a continuous log slowly built-up as drilling progresses. The formation
in this way is logging while drilling depending on the rate of penetration, making it
possible to re-log formations of interest while reaming the hole.
Services offered by LWD companies include Gamma Ray, Porosity, Permeability

Lithology, Acoustics While Drilling, Resistivity, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and
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Measurements While Drilling. In general LWD logs are comparable with wireline
logs and can be interpreted in similar way. However the applications are rather
different because LWD logs are mainly used in highly deviated and horizontal wells
where drilling and navigating inside thin layers may sometimes be required.
2.1 Gamma Ray logs
Gamma Ray sensors measure the total amount of natural gamma ray energy
emitted by minerals in the formation. Clay (Shale) minerals, for instance,
have high gamma ray responses; clean (little or no shale content) reservoir
rocks have relatively low gamma ray measurement. Total GR and Azimuthal
GR are used for a variety of applications, including Lithology identification
and mineralogy. Azimuthal Gamma ray information is valuable for
Geosteering tool to detect bed boundaries while drilling. The spectral
Azimuthal Gamma Ray can obtain real time K, U, and Th spectral data while
drilling.
Applications
A) Improve drilling efficiencies in conventional, horizontal, re-entry and

cased-hole sidetrack wells
B) Formation evaluation
C) Optimize casing and core point selection
D) Well to well geological correlation
E) Hole section to hole section and bit run to bit run tie-in
F) Qualitative lithology indicator
G) Quantitative shale/clay indicator.
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Service Company Names

2.1 Gamma Ray
Max
Dog leg Severity
Tool OD Hole Operation Max Operation
o
Company Tool name Inches Acronym size Temp ( F) Press (psi) Rot Slide Comments
3 1/8
4 ¾ 3 7/8 - 302°F
NaviGamma 6 ¾ NG 25000-30000 psi
17 ½ (150°C)
8 ¼
9 ½
4 ¾
6 ¾
It is application specific and a function Gamma ray Logging ,
Baker Hughes 8 ¼ 5 3/4 - 302°F of various parameters such as BHA Determination of shale and non-
OnTrak NG 25000-30000 psi
26 (150°C) configurations shale formation
9 ½
4 ¾
5¾-9 302°F
AziTrak 6 ¾ NG 25000-30000 psi
7/8 (150°C)
9½ HDS-1 22 to 16 302 25000 8 15 Flow Rate:

High Speed
8 HDS-1 12 ¼ 302 25000 9 18 250-950 gal/min
Directional
Survey 6¾ HDS-1 8½ 302 25000 9 17 250-950 gal/min
4¾ HDS-1 6 1/8 302 25000 17 31 125-375 gal/min
Pay Zone
6¾ PZIG 8½ 302 20000 9 17 Gamma: 1.67 ft; Inc: 2.58 ft
Inclination
Gamma 4¾ PZIG 6 1/8 302 20000 17 31 Gamma: 0.92 ft; Inc: 1.83 ft
SlimPulse 3.125 SP 347 20,000 40 145
IMPulse 4.75 IMP 347 25,000 15 30
Standard Rate Mud Pulse Telemetry
Schlumberger PowerPulse675 6.75 PPG6 347 25,000 8 16
4.75 Gamma Ray Direction & Inclination
PowerPulse825 8.25 PPG8 347 25,000 7 12
to
PowerPulse900 9 PPG9 347 25,000 6 10
12.25+
TeleScope675 6.75 TS6 347 25,000 8 16
High-rate Mud Pulse Telemetry
Telescope825 8.25 TS8 347 25,000 7 12
(Includes Gamma Ray and D&I)
TeleScope900 9 TS9 347 25,000 6 10
Gamma Ray is included in all arcVISION (Propagation Resistivity) services
Gamma Ray is included in all geoVISION (Laterolog Resistivity) services
Gamma Ray is included in all PeriScope (Deep Azimuthal Resistivity) services
Gamma Ray is included in EcoScope (Specialized Measurement) services
3.125’’ DGR 302 25000 14/100 30/100
4.75’’ DGR 3.875’’ 302 18000 14/100 30/100
Dual Gamma
Sperry Sun 6.75’’ DGR To 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Ray
8.00’’ DGR 26’’ 302 18000 8/100 14/100
9.50’’ DGR 302 13500 8/100 14/100
4.75'' HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 20 36 Geiger Muller tubes measure real-time
6 3/4" HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 11 19 gamma ray
High Temp
5.875''-
Weatherford Azimuthal 8'' HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 10 16
Gamma Ray 36''
8 1/4" HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 9 15
9 1/2" HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 8 14
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2.1.1 Gamma Ray Image
A Gamma Ray Image is a “map” of the gamma ray response of the

formation taken at regular intervals around the circumference of the
borehole. The azimuthal variations of the gamma ray measurement at
each depth are represented by a color scale. There are currently
available in the market, fully integrated MWD/LWD tools providing real
time Directional, Gamma Ray, Resistivity, Downhole Pressure and
Vibration measurements on a single collar. These tools are designed to
take into account all the challenges present in the most demanding
rotary steerable applications.
Applications
A) To pick Formation features such as dips

B) Geo confirmation of bed boundaries with Azimuthal Gamma Ray
C) Real-time adjustment of the wellbore trajectory (“geo-steering”)
D) Qualitative determination of subsurface bed orientation (formation
dip and azimuth)
E) Identification of geological features
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2.1.1 Gamma-ray Image

Max
Tool OD Hole Operation Max Operation Dog leg Severity
Company Tool name Inches Acronym size Temp (oF) Press (psi) Rot Slide Comments
4 ¾
6 ¾ 5 ¾ - 26 302°F
OnTrak GRI 25000-30000 psi
(150°C)
8 ¼ It is application specific and a function
Baker Hughes
Geosteering using Azimuthal GR
9 ½ of various parameters such as BHA
detectors
configurations
4 ¾
5¾-9 302°F
AziTrak 6 ¾ GRI 25000-30000 psi
7/8 (150°C)
Schlumberger Gamma Ray Image can be provided by EcoScope and NeoScope (Specialized Measurement) services
4.75’’ ABG 302 20000 14/100 30/100 4 ¾” Tool Mud Chlorides Max. 50K
Sperry Sun
At Bit Gamma & 3.875’’
6 ¾” & 9.625’’ available on Geo Pilot
Image 6.75’’ ABG To 26’’ 284 22000 14/100 21/100
Only
9.625’’ ABG 284 20000 8/100 14/100
6.75" SAGR 329 F 22,000 psi 11 19
Spectral Three independent Nal crystals for
8.375''-
Gamma-ray 8" SAGR 329 F 22,000 psi 10 16 increased sensitivity and
12.25''
Image redundancy
4.75'' HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 20 36 Geiger Muller tubes measure real-time
Weatherford azimuthal gamma ray in rotary and slide
High Temp 6 3/4" HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 11 19
5.875''- mode
Azimuthal 8'' HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 10 16
Gamma Ray
36''
8 1/4" HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 9 15
9 1/2" HAGR 356 F 30,000 psi 8 14
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2.2 Resistivity logs
The Resistivity tools measure the resistance of the formation to the flow of
electrical current. The resistivity of a porous formation is generally governed
by what fluids are present in the formation pore space. High resistivity
indicates a non-conductive fluid such as hydrocarbon which fill the pore
space; low resistivity indicates the presence of a conducting fluid such as salt
water. The resistivity of a non-porous (“tight”) formation is determined by the
electrical characteristics of the formations mineral components. For instance,
anhydrite has very high resistivity while un-compacted shale has low
resistivity.
The LWD induction resistivity sensors can operate at several frequencies and
can have more than one receiver. The resistivity tools in general can
measure both phase-shift (velocity) and attenuation (amplitude ratio),
producing a number of curves with different depths of investigation depending
on the numbers of antennas and spacing between them. Fully integrated-
multifunction MWD/LWD tools are also available in the market.
Applications
A) Determine Bed Thickness

B) Indicates Shale Content
C) Distinguish Hydrocarbons from Salt Water
D) Determine Formation Porosity
E) Determine Fluid Saturations
F) Identify Moveable Fluids (Permeability Indicator)
G) Predict Abnormal Formation Pore Pressure
H) Indicate Bed Boundaries in Horizontal Wells
I) In-situ Reserve Estimates
J) Well-to-well geological correlation
K) Qualitative lithology determination
L) Qualitative hydrocarbon indication
M) Characterization of drilling fluid filtrate invasion
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2.2 Resistivity
Max
Tool OD Hole Max Operation
Company Tool name Acronym Operation Dog leg Severity Comments
Inches size Press (psi)
Temp (oF) Rot Slide
3.125 EWR 302 16000 14/100 30/100
4.75’’ EWR 302 18000 14/100 30/100
Electrco 3.875’’
Sperry Sun Magnetic Wave 6.75’’ EWR To 302 18000 10/100 21/100 Induction Type Tool
Resistivity 26"
8.00’’ EWR 302 18000 8/100 14/100
9.50’’ EWR 302 13500 8/100 14/100
4.75'' MFR 356 F 30,000 psi 20 36
6 3/4" MFR 356 F 30,000 psi 11 19
Multi-Frequency 8'' MFR 5.875''- 356 F 30,000 psi 10 16

Weatherford
Resistivity
8 1/4" MFR 36'' 356 F 30,000 psi 9 15
9 1/2" MFR 356 F 30,000 psi 8 14
LWD propagation resistivity tools emit radio-frequency

electromagnetic waves from a transmitter and measure the velocity
(phase shift) and attenuation (amplitude ratio) between two receiver
antennas.
Applications
A) Measure Rt and Rxo in invaded formations.

B) Resistivity measurements while drilling with non-conductive
borehole fluids such as OBM and air.
C) Calculate Rv and Rh.
D) Measure Rt in deviated wells.
E) Measure Rt before invasion and washouts occur.
F) Invasion profile analysis.
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Max
4 ¾
6 ¾ 6 3/4 - 302°F
OnTrak MPR 25000-30000 psi
8 ¼ 26 (150°C) It is application specific and a function
Baker Hughes 9 ½ of various parameters such as BHA Determination of formation resistivity
4 ¾ configurations
5 ¾ -9 302°F
AziTrak APR 25000-30000 psi
6 ¾ 7/8 (150°C)
Flow Rate:
Compensated 9½ CWR 16 302 20000 2 8 250-1250 gal/min
Wave Resistivity 8 CWR 12 ¼ 302 20000 4 12 250-1125 gal/min
6¾ CWR 8½ 302 20000 5 14 250-750 gal/min
Slim
4¾ SCWR 6 1/8 302 20000 17 13 120 - 275 gal/min
Compensated
9½ AWR 8½ 350 25000 10 16 Flow Rate:
Array Wave
Schlumberger Resistivity 8 AWR 6 1/8 350 25000 10 16 250-1125 gal/min
6¾ AWR 8½ 350 25000 10 16 250-750 gal/min
Slim Array Wave
4¾ SAWR 6 1/8 350 25000 15 30 120 - 275 gal/min
Resistivity
arcVISION312 3.125 ARC3 300 20,000 30 100
arcVISION475 4.75 ARC4 4.25 347 25,000 15 30 Propagation Resistivity
arcVISION675 6.75 ARC6 to 300 25,000 8 16 Gamma Ray
EcoScope675 6.75 ECO6 17.5 300 20,000 8 16 Annular Pressure
arcVISION825 8.25 ARC8 300 25,000 7 14
Multi-Frequency 4.75''' MFR+ 5.875''-
356 F 30,000 psi 20 36 Ultra deep resistivity
Weatherford
Resistivity Plus 6.75''
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High-Definition LWD electrical imaging services acquire

microresistivity measurements around the circumference of the
borehole during the rotation of the BHA. With the azimuthal
measurements acquired in several separate oriented sectors, this
type of service provides the industry's highest resolution resistivity
logs getting a map of the formation resistivity with a high vertical
resolution, dynamic measurement range and sampling rate than either
gamma ray images or density images. The images are compressed
and sent to the surface acquisition systems to be used in the
optimization of the geosteering process to provide high resolution
structural analysis of specific zones of interest.
Applications
A) Optimizing wellbore placement (real-time update of 3D-geological

model)
B) Quantitative determination of subsurface bed orientation (formation
dip and azimuth)
C) Structural / fracture system analysis for completion optimization
(e.g. fracture stimulation & perforation)
D) Wellbore integrity management (based on identification of induced
fractures, break-outs, shear plane failures, ledges & fluid loss
zones)
E) Real-time calibration of geomechanical model
F) Sedimentary feature analysis - to generate a depositional
environmental model
G) Optimizing placement of formation pressure test stations in thin
beds
H) Thin bed analysis to determine net pay thickness
I) Core-image log integration / calibration to reduce geological
uncertainty (especially without cored intervals)
J) Petrophysical applications - qualitative porosity and permeability,
inputs for reservoir modeling
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Max
4 ¾ Electric It is application specific and a function Precise Dip picking -Structure and
5¾-9
Baker Hughes StarTrak Resistivity
1/2
302°F (150°C) 25000 psi of various parameters such as BHA Fracture analysis -Thin bed and
6 ¾
Image configurations sedimentation features analysis
Schlumberger Resistivity Image can be provided by geoVISION (Laterolog Resistivity) services

4.75’’ AFR 302 25000 14/100 30/100
Azimuthal 5.875’’
6.75’’ AFR 302 22500 10/100 21/100 Water based Mud & Mud preferable 10%
Sperry Sun Focused To
of FWS
Resistivity 8.0’’ AFR 12.25" 302 25000 8/100 14/100
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Deep reading resistivity measurement capabilities enhance

geosteering applications and horizontal log interpretation in thin
reservoirs. These tools can provide real time Directional, Azimuthal
Gamma Ray, resistivity, Deep Azimuthal Resistivity, Downhole
Pressure and Vibration measurements on a single collar. The tools
are designed to withstand challenges present in the most demanding
drilling applications
Applications
A) Real time Reservoir Navigation and accurate well placement.

B) Deep Azimuthal Resistivity bed boundary detection and non-
productive reservoir avoidance capability in real-time.
C) The Deep Azimuthal Resistivity helps determine the apparent dip
of an approaching bed to avoid reservoir exit and confirms
geological structure models.
D) Geo confirmation of bed boundaries with Azimuthal Gamma Ray
E) Optimum directional control with close to the bit sensor spacing in
a fully integrated sub.
F) Fully modular system allows the complete integration of high end
LWD services
G) Steering the trajectory above a water zone
H) Steering the trajectory directly below the cap rock (“attic oil”)

4 ¾ It is application specific and a function Geosteering wells based on resistivity

5¾-9
Baker Hughes AziTrak APR -MPR
7/8
302°F (150°C) 25000-30000 psi of various parameters such as BHA contrast between formations
6 ¾ configurations
Deep Azimuthal Resistivity

Schlumberger PeriScope475 4.75 PS4 5.875 300 25,000 15 30
to Gamma Ray
PeriScope675 6.75 PS6 9.875 300 25,000 8 16
5.875’’
Azimuthal Deep
Sperry Sun 4.75’’ ADR To 302 25000 14/100 30/100
Resistivity
6.75’’ ADR 12.25" 302 25000 10/100 21/100
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2.2.4 Laterologs
Laterolog resistivity tools measure the resistivity of the formation by

forcing electrical current into the formation. By design most LWD
laterolog tools have a shallower depth of investigation but a much better
vertical resolution.
Applications
A) Can identify borehole breakouts
B) Identify coring or casing points
C) Measure Rt & Rxo in a high resistivity environment
D) Resistivity measurement while drilling with saline borehole fluids
E) Identification and characterization of thin (< 2 ft. thick) beds
2.2.4 Laterologs
Max
Tool OD Hole Max Operation Dog leg Severity
Company Tool name Acronym Operation Comments
Inches size Press (psi)
o
Temp ( F) Rot Slide
5.875 Laterolog Resistivity Resistivity Image
Schlumberger geoVISION475 4.75 GVR4 to 300 20,000 15 30
Gamma Ray
geoVISION675 6.75 GVR6 12.250 300 18,000 4.5 16
4.75’’ AFR 302 25000 14/100 30/100
Azimuthal 6.75’’ AFR 5.875’’ 302 22500 10/100 21/100
Water based Mud & Mud preferable 10%
Sperry Sun Focused To
of FWS
Resistivity 8.0’’ AFR 12.25" 302 25000 8/100 14/100
2.3 Density logs
The Formation Density tool measures the bulk density of the formation in
front of the tool. It uses a radioactive source which emits gamma rays into the
formation. The gamma rays react with the minerals and fluids in the formation
and either become “absorbed” or experience a reduction in energy level.
Special gamma ray detectors in the tool measure the number and energy
level of these returning gamma rays. These measurements can then be
mathematically converted to formation bulk density. The Formation Density
measurement is almost always acquired together with the Neutron Porosity.
The Azimuthal Density sensors provides in general accurate formation bulk
density and lithology (Pe) measurements, as well as a density caliper
measurement in addition to real time high resolution density image.
The Azimuthal Density sensors consists of Ci, Cs-137 sources and

detectors placed at different distances from the source. Tungsten shielding is
placed around the source and detectors to provide proper shielding and
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collimation. The gamma rays emitted by the radioactive source will interact
with the atoms comprising the formation and be scattered back towards the
near and far detectors.
.
Applications
A) Determination of formation bulk density (ρb)

B) Estimation of formation porosity (φD)
C) Input for computation of water saturation
D) Quantitative lithology determination (in conjunction with Neutron
Porosity measurement)
E) Gas detection (in combination with other devices)
F) Heavy mineral identification
G) Enhanced Geosteering capability using high resolution
Azimuthal density image
H) Evaluation of rock mechanical properties (in conjunction with
Sonic measurement)
I) Overburden (vertical stress) estimation
J) Surface seismic correlation (in conjunction with Sonic
measurement)
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2.3 Density
Max
o
4 ¾ It is application specific and a function
5 7/8 - 12
Baker Hughes LithoTrak 6 ¾ ORD
¼
302°F (150°C) 25000-30000 psi of various parameters such as BHA Formation Bulk Density
8 ¼ configurations
12 ¼ to Flow Rate:
Density Neutron 8 DNSC 14 302 18000 6 12 0-1125 gal/min
Standoff Caliper 8 3/8 to
6¾ DNSC 9 7/8 302 18000 8 16 0-750 gal/min
Slim Density Flow Rate:
5 7/8 to
Pathfinder Neutron Standoff 4¾ SDNSC 350 25000 15 30 0 - 375 gal/min
7 7/8
Caliper
Flow Rate:
Image Slim 8 3/8 to
6¾ ISDNSC 350 25000 10 16 0-750 gal/min
Density Neutron 8 3/4
Standoff Caliper
4¾ ISDNSC 6 7/8 350 25000 15 30 0 - 375 gal/min
adnVISION475 4.75 ADN4 300 25,000 15 30
adnVISION675 6.75 ADN6 5.750 300 25,000 4.5 16 Formation Density Density Image
Schlumberger to Neutron Porosity Pe Factor
12.250 Computed Caliper
EcoScope675 6.75 ECO6 300 20,000 8 16
adnVISION825 8.25 ADN8 300 18,000 7 14
adnVISION825s 8.25 SADN8 300 18,000 4 12
4.75’’ SLD 5.875’’ 302 20000 14/100 30/100
Stabilized Litho
Sperry Sun 6.75’’ SLD To 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Density
8.00’’ SLD 12.25" 302 18000 8/100 14/100
4.75''' AZD 329 F 30,000 20 36
Azimuthal 5.875''-
Weatherford 6 3/4" AZD 329 F 30,000 11 19
Density 12.25''
8 1/4" AZD 329 F 30,000 9 15
2.3.1 Density image logs
The density Image principle is similar to the Gamma Ray Image - a

“map” of the density of the formation taken at regular intervals around
the circumference of the borehole. The density image has a better
vertical resolution and sampling rate than the Gamma Ray image, but
is poorer in these aspects than the Resistivity Image.
Applications
A) Real-time adjustment of the wellbore trajectory (“geo-steering”)

B) Structure Dip identification
C) Identify zones with Borehole breakout, washout or spiraling
D) Quantitative determination of subsurface bed orientation (formation
dip and azimuth)
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2.3.1 Density-image
Max
Dog leg Severity
o
5 7/8 - 302°F 16 Sector Formation Density & Dip
Baker Hughes LithoTrak 6 ¾ ORD 25000-30000 psi of various parameters such as BHA
12 ¼ (150°C) Picking.
8 ¼ configurations
8 3/8 to Flow Rate:
6¾ ISDNSC 350 25000 10 16
Image Slim 8 3/4 0-750 gal/min
Density Neutron
Schlumberger Standoff Caliper 5 7/8 to
4¾ ISDNSC
6 7/8 350 25000 15 30 0 - 375 gal/min
Density Image can be provided by adnVISION, proVISION, proVISION Plus, EcoScope, NeoScope and PathFinder Density Imaging services.
4.75’’ ALD 302 20000 14/100 30/100
5.875’’
Azimuthal Litho 6.75’’ ALD 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Sperry Sun To
Density
12.25"
8.00’’ ALD 302 18000 8/100 14/100
4.75'' AZD 329 F 30,000 20 36

Azimuthal 5.875''-
Density 12.25''
8 1/4" AZD 329 F 30,000 9 15
2.3.2 Photo-electric factor
The Photoelectric factor is a secondary measurement made by the

Formation Density tool. The measurement is sensitive to the
mineralogy (sandstone, limestone and dolomite) of the formation in
front of the tool.
Applications
A) Independent lithology Indication

B) Volumetrics
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2.3.2 Photo Electric Factor

Max Dog leg Severity
o
6 ¾ 5 7/8 - 12 302°F of various parameters such as BHA Photoelectric & Lithology
Baker Hughes LithoTrak ORD 25000-30000 psi configurations
¼ (150°C) determination.
8 ¼
Flow Rate:
12 ¼ to
0-1125 gal/min
Density Neutron 8 DNSC 14 302 18000 6 12
Standoff Caliper
8 3/8 to 9
6¾ DNSC 7/8 302 18000 8 16 0-750 gal/min
Slim Density Flow Rate:
5 7/8 to 7
Neutron Standoff 4¾ SDNSC 350 25000 15 30 0 - 375 gal/min
7/8
Caliper
Schlumberger Flow Rate:
8 3/8 to 8
Image Slim 6¾ ISDNSC 350 25000 10 16 0-750 gal/min
3/4
Density Neutron
Standoff Caliper 5 7/8 to 6 Flow Rate:
4¾ ISDNSC
7/8 350 25000 15 30 0 - 375 gal/min
PE Factor is included in all adnVISION (Density) services

PE Factor is included in EcoScope (Specialized Measurements) service
4.75’’ SLD 5.875’’ 302 20000 14/100 30/100
Stabilized Litho
Sperry Sun 6.75’’ SLD To 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Density
8.00’’ SLD 12.25" 302 18000 8/100 14/100
4.75'' AZD 329 F 30,000 20 36
Azimuthal 5.875''-
Density 12.25''
8 1/4" AZD 329 F 30,000 9 15
2.4 Neutron Porosity logs
The Neutron Porosity tool attempts to measure the volume of formation pore
space (porosity) by irradiating the formation with high energy neutrons emitted by
a radioactive source in the tool. As with the formation density tool, the neutrons
emitted react with formation materials, specifically the fluids in the pores. These
reactions cause the neutrons to lose energy and a portion to become absorbed.
The number of neutrons returning to the tools detectors can be related to the
amount of fluid-filled pore space in the formation. The Neutron Porosity
measurement is almost always run in conjunction with the Formation Density
measurement. The Thermal Neutron Porosity sensors provides in general a
borehole compensated - high resolution porosity measurement. The neutron tool,
in general consists of a low-energy Californium source and arrays of Helium 3
detectors located at different distances from the source.
Applications
A) Estimation of formation porosity
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B) Light hydrocarbon (gas) identification in conjunction with

Formation Density measurement
C) Hydrogen Index
D) Shale volume indicator
E) Well to well geological correlation
2.4 Neutron Porosity

5 7/8 - 302°F
Baker Hughes LithoTrak 6 ¾ CCN
12 ¼ (150°C)
25000-30000 psi of various parameters such as BHA Detection of formation porosity
8 ¼ configurations
Density Neutron 8 DNSC 14 302 18000 6 12 Flow Rate:
Standoff Caliper 6¾ DNSC 9 7/8 302 18000 8 16 0-750 gal/min
Slim Density 5 7/8 to Flow Rate:
4¾ SDNSC 350 25000 15 30
Neutron Standoff 7 7/8 0 - 375 gal/min
8 3/8 to
Schlumberger Image Slim 6¾ ISDNSC 350 25000 10 16 Flow Rate:
8 3/4
Density Neutron 5 7/8 to Flow Rate:
4¾ ISDNSC
Standoff Caliper 6 7/8 350 25000 15 30 0 - 375 gal/min
Neutron Porosity is included in all adnVISION (Density) services
Neutron Porosity is included in EcoScope (Specialized Measurements) service
4.75'' TNP 329 F 30,000 20 36
Thermal 5.875''-
Weatherford Neutron Porosity 6 3/4" TNP 329 F 30,000 11 19
8 1/4" TNP
12.25'' 329 F 30,000 9 15
4.75’’ CTN 302 18000 14/100 30/100
Compensated 5.875’’
6.75’’ CTN 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Sperry Sun Thermal To
Neutron 8.00’’ CTN 12.25" 302 18000 8/100 14/100
2.5 Sonic logs
The Sonic tool measures the velocity of acoustic waves in the formation. This is
accomplished by generating a high frequency sound wave at the transmitter(s)
and analyzing the returning sound wave at a number of receivers. In general all
LWD Sonic tools have capacity to store in memory full waveforms that can be
downloaded at surface enhancing data quality.
Applications
A) Used as source less porosity tool, less sensitive to the effects of

washed out boreholes
B) Seismic time-depth calibration
C) Quantitative lithology determination (in conjunction with Formation
Density measurement)
D) Evaluation of rock mechanical properties (in conjunction with
Formation Density measurement)
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E) Detection of Gas
F) Shear and compressional logging
G) Pore Pressure Prediction
H) Well to well geophysical correlation
I) Surface seismic correlation (in conjunction with Formation Density
measurement)
2.5 Sonic
Max
6 ¾
It is application specific and a function
8 ¼ 8 3/8 - 302°F Compressional and shear wave
Baker Hughes SoundTrak SDTK 25000-30000 psi of various parameters such as BHA
26 (150°C) travel-time measurements
9 ½ configurations
Flow Rate:
250-1500 gal/min
Compensated
9½ CLSS 22 to 16 302 20000 5 10
Long - Spaced
12 ¼ to
Sonic
8 CLSS 14 302 20000 9 17 250-1125 gal/min
6¾ CLSS 9 7/8 302 20000 9.5 18 250-750 gal/min
Slim Flow Rate:
Compensated 5 7/8 to 120 - 300 gal/min
4¾ SCLSS 302 20000 17.5 32
Schlumberger Long - Spaced 7 7/8
Sonic
SonicScope475 4.75 MP3 300 25,000 15 30
sonicVISION675 6.75 SV6
5.750 300 25,000 4.5 16
sonicVISION825 8.25 SV8 to
30.000 300 20,000 8 16
sonicVISION900 9 SV9
300 18,000 7 14
ShockWave 8.375''-
Weatherford 6 3/4'' SST 329 F 30000 11 19
Sonic Tool 9.875''
Bi Modal 4.75’’ DGR 347 25000 14/100 30/100
5.75’’
Acoustic / 6.75’’ DGR 347 20000 10/100 21/100
Sperry Sun To
Multipole 8.00’’ DGR 347 20000 8/100 14/100
Acoustic Tool 9.50’’ DGR
36’’ 347 25000 8/100 14/100
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2.6 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance NMR
The NMR tool measures a number of nuclear magnetic properties of the

formation. The tool normally contains a large permanent magnet which polarizes
or “aligns” the hydrogen atoms in the formation fluids (and to a lesser extent, in
the formation matrix). Then a pre-programmed sequence of alternating low
frequency electromagnetic signals is applied to the aligned atoms. This causes
the atoms to fall out of alignment in a manner which create small electromagnetic
signatures representative of certain properties of the formation fluid. The NMR
tools can be utilized to provide a measurement of the total reservoirs porosity
while drilling. Through the NMR measurements it is possible to have an
indication of the clay-bound water, moveable fluids and the pore fluids.
Applications
A) Identifying in real time free fluid and bound fluid

B) Porosity Measurement – Lithology independent
C) Able to identify the type of free fluid (oil, gas or water)
D) Gives an indication of the permeability
E) Formation fluid viscosity characterization
2.6 NMR
Max
It is application specific and a function Geosteering- fluid typing (for
4 ¾ 5 ¾ -9 302°F
Baker Hughes MagTrak MTK 25000 psi of various parameters such as BHA example detection of heavy oil/tar in
7/8 (150°C)
6 ¾ configurations Manifa
8.375
Schlumberger proVISION675 6.75 PV6 to 300 25,000 8 16
10.625
Magnetic 8.50"
Sperry Sun Resonance 6.75’’ MRIL To 302 20000 10/100 21/100 Preferably Low Salinity mud chlorides
Imaging 10.625"
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2.7 Caliper logs
The caliper tools measure the variation in bore-hole diameter and shape. At
surface, the display is printed as a continuous series of values of hole diameter
with depth. There are challenges in the evaluation of wellbore geometry while
drilling. One is the spiraling which occurs when the position of the drill bit may
wobble as it drills, leading to spiraling shapes in the wellbore wall, as if the hole
had been drilled by a screw. There are also ovalization and wash-outs which
adversely impact the determination of stress orientation.
2.7.1 Ultrasonic Caliper logs
The Ultrasonic Caliper measurement provides the borehole diameter

while drilling. The measurement is made by utilizing the travel time of
a high frequency sonic pulse created by an ultrasonic transducer. The
diameter of the borehole can be determined from the time required for
the pulse to travel across the mud annulus, reflect off of the borehole
wall and return to the transducer. The ultrasonic measurement
requires a good impedance contrast between mud and formation. Its
limited range is strongly affected by mud weight, which attenuates the
signal
Applications
A) Volume calculation of the open hole

B) Measuring the Borehole size and shape
B) Improved borehole environmental corrections on nuclear and
resistivity logs
C) Wellbore stability diagnostics
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2.7.1 Ultrasonic Caliper

Max
Operation Dog leg Severity
Tool OD Hole Max Operation
5 7/8 - 302°F Bore size and shape with Azimuthal
Baker Hughes LithoTrak 6 ¾ CAL 25000-30000 psi of various parameters such as BHA
12 1/4 (150°C) Caliper
8 ¼ configurations
Flow Rate:
250-1500 gal/min
Compensated 9½ CLSS 22 to 16 302 20000 5 10
Long - Spaced 12 ¼ to
Sonic 8 CLSS 14 302 20000 9 17 250-1125 gal/min
8 3/8 to
Schlumberger 6¾ CLSS 9 7/8 302 20000 9.5 18 250-750 gal/min
Slim Flow Rate:
4¾ SCLSS 302 20000 17.5 32
Long - Spaced 7 7/8
Sonic
Ultrasonic Caliper can be provided by adnVISION675 (Density) service
Ultrasonic Caliper can be provided by EcoScope (Specialized Measurements) service
6.75’’ ACAL 5.875’’ 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Sperry Sun Acoustic Caliper To
8.00’’ ACAL 12.25" 302 18000 8/100 14/100
The Density-derived Caliper is a secondary measurement made by

the Formation Density tool. The borehole diameter is computed by
measuring the tool standoff (from the borehole wall) in several
azimuthal orientations using the same data which is used to
compensate the formation density measurement. Electrical calipers
currently operate in conductive mud systems and offer only an
average hole-size measurement.
Applications
A) Identifying washouts
B) Evaluation of borehole size and shape for completion design
C) Estimation casing/liner cement volume
D) Improved borehole environmental corrections on nuclear and
resistivity logs
E) Wellbore stability diagnostics
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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Flow Rate:
250-1500 gal/min
Compensated 9½ CLSS 22 to 16 302 20000 5 10
Long - Spaced 12 ¼ to
Sonic 8 CLSS 14 302 20000 9 17 250-1125 gal/min
8 3/8 to
Schlumberger 6¾ CLSS 9 7/8 302 20000 9.5 18 250-750 gal/min
Slim Flow Rate:
4¾ SCLSS 302 20000 17.5 32
Long - Spaced 7 7/8
Sonic
Density Derived Caliper can be provided all adnVISION (Density) services
Density Derived Caliper can be provided by EcoScope (Specialized Measurements) service
4.75’’ SLD 5.875’’ 302 20000 14/100 30/100
Stabilized Litho
Sperry Sun 6.75’’ SLD To 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Density
8.00’’ SLD 12.25" 302 18000 8/100 14/100
4.75'' AZD 302 F 30,000 20 36
Azimuthal 5.875''-
Density 12.25''
8 1/4" AZD 302 F 30,000 9 15
2.8 Formation tester
The drilling formation testers can make multiple reservoir pressure tests,
providing a measurement of the sand-face (pore) pressure of the formation. The
tool deploys a probe and packer assembly which makes a hydraulic seal with the
formation. Then a small chamber is opened at predefined rate to draw a small
amount of pore fluids into the tool, while continuously monitoring the pressure
and chamber volume. After a short period of time, the drawdown is halted and
the pressure builds up to the formation pressure. Analysis of the pressure curve
over the duration of the test can provide an estimation of fluid mobility in the
formation. Pressure measurements made in the relatively un-invaded reservoir
can reflect conditions prior damage due to fines migration.
Applications
F) Reservoir pressure monitoring

G) Evaluate reservoir productivity or injectivity
H) Fluid identification using pressure gradients
I) Real-time pore pressure prediction
J) Real-time identification of low mobility zones (heavy oil or tar)
K) Identify optimal mud weight and equivalent circulation density
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2.8 Formation Tester

5 ¾ -17 302°F 25,000-30,000 Reservoir pressure info and
Baker Hughes TesTrak 6 ¾ TTK of various parameters such as BHA
1/2 (150°C) psi reservoir pressure gradient
8 ¼ configurations
Drilling Flow Rate:
10 3/4 to
Schlumberger Formation 6¾ DFT 302 20000 7 16 275-450 gal/min
8 1/2
Tester
2.8.1 Pressure while drilling sensors
The Pressure While Drilling (PWD) measures real time down hole
annular pressure. Through these measurements loss circulation, kicks
and flows can be avoided.
Applications
A) Formation Pressure measurements in real-time

B) Fluid gradient and fluid measurement in real-time
C) Identify optimal mud weight and ECD (Equivalent Circulation
Density)
D) Fluids mobility calculation
E) Pressure transient analysis
F) Reservoir compartmentalization
G) Detecting Pack Offs and hole instability
H) Monitoring hole cleaning
I) Detecting gas/fluid influx and optimize mud weight
J) Measuring of pumps swap and surge pressure
2.8 .1 Pressure
o
5 ¾ -17 302°F 25,000-30,000
Baker Hughes TesTrak 6 ¾ TTK of various parameters such as BHA Reservoir pressure info and
1/2 (150°C) psi
8 ¼ configurations reservoir pressure gradient
StethoScope475 4.75 SS4 5.875 300 25,000 15 30
Formation Pressure Annular
Schlumberger StethoScope675 6.75 SS6 to 300 25,000 8 16
Pressure Annular Temperature
StethoScope825 8.25 SS8 15.000 300 25,000 7 13
4.75’’ Geo Tap 302 18000 14/100 30/100
5.75’’
6.75’’ Geo Tap 302 18000 10/100 21/100
Sperry Sun Geo Tap To
8.00’’ Geo Tap 302 18000 8/100 14/100
9.50’’ Geo Tap
18’’ 302 18000 8/100 14/100
4.75'' BAP 356 F 30,000 psi 20 36
6 3/4" BAP 356 F 30,000 psi 11 19
Bore Annulus 5.875''-
Weatherford 8'' BAP 356 F 30,000 psi 10 16
Pressure
8 1/4" BAP
36'' 356 F 30,000 psi 9 15
9 1/2" BAP 356 F 30,000 psi 8 14
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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2.8.2 Fluid Sampling and Identification
It is possible downhole capture, identification and surface recovery of

representative multiple fluid samples using LWD. The sample probe
can be placed anywhere in the BHA, and be located in front of the
target formation. A command is sent from surface to the tool, then the
sample is extended and activating sampling taking procedure. To get
a not contaminated fluid sample is recommended to remove mud
filtrate then the tool has to activate repeated dropdowns tests in order
to calculate formation fluids mobility and measure fluid pressure,
temperature, resistivity, density and capacitance to be able to decide
in the sample is not contaminated. Finally the sample kit is retracted
and hidden inside the tool collar and can be retrieved in the surface
for further analysis.
Applications
A) Can reduce uncertainly in complex reservoirs

B) Helps improve economic performance in high-cost deepwater
environments
C) Can eliminate costly wireline trips and associated rig time
D) Get data within hours, not days, through reduced pump-out time
E) Improve geo-correlation accuracy and geosteering capabilities
2.9 Telemetry Systems
Telemetry systems is a technology that allows remote measurement and

reporting of information from downhole sensors to the surface while drilling
using the drilling fluid as conductor media for the pressure waves originated
in the MWD tools demodulator.
2.9.1 Mud Pulsers/Positive/Negative/Continuous/BPS and data

density
The telemetry systems used by MWD/LWD companies currently

operating in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are as follow:
A) Sperry Drilling: positive pulse mud telemetry and negative pulse

telemetry.
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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
B) Weatherford use positive pulse system, using a battery power

exclusively for LWD tools.
C) Schlumberger use a continues demodulation wave, send from

the demodulator system located in top of MWD tool collar, the
pressure wave travel through BHA and is captured in the surface
for the pressure sensors, then sent into the decoders to be
converted in useful data. The original MWD/LWD system
manufactured by Pathfinder, before joining Schlumberger, is the
modular fixed collar HDS-1L™ directional tool with positive-pulse
telemetry. The tool provides continuous inclination and azimuth
information and acts as the telemetry module to make real-time
data transmission possible. The DataLink™ provides real-time
communication with PathFinder LWD sensors.
D) BakerHughes, have a positive BCPM and continuous BCPM II

pulse. The transmission rate for positive pulse is 1 – 6 BPS and
for continuous pulse is 1 – 40 BPS, its application is function of
expected drilling parameters and BHA configurations
2.9.2 Electromagnetic telemetry systems
The electromagnetic telemetry service has been developed to be used

as an alternative to the conventional mud telemetry systems. Using
electromagnetic waves is possible to establish communication
between the down hole tools and the surface using low frequency
electromagnetic waves, allowing high speed transmission rates,
making possible to operate with underbalanced drilling where no liquid
column is present in the drill string.
The low frequency electromagnetic waves propagate up the drill string,

suffering a decreasing in the signal strength with depth and in more
conductive formations.
BakerHughes, has a tool with electromagnetic telemetry system called

E-Mtrak that can be used to get inclination, azimuth, toolface, stick-slip,
borehole temperature & pressure and natural gamma ray readings.
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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2.9.3 Wired Pipe telemetry
Wired pipe telemetry system uses electrical wires built into every component
of the drill string to carry signals to the surface. The system can transmit data
at rates several orders of magnitude faster than conventional mud telemetry
or electromagnetic telemetry systems. It can be used in underbalanced
drilling in real time thereby simplifying the surface data acquisition
procedures. Companies such as National Oilfield Varco NOV and IntelliServ
have wired pipe service.
Sperry Drilling tools are compatible with current wired piped technology
available through the IXO interface. HEL MWD/LWD system from
Weatherford can be run with wired pipe systems using an interface sub.
2.9.4 LWD tools down-linking
The purpose of down-linking is to send the downhole tools a command that

can range from steering commands to a LWD tool software configuration
change. Cycling the pumps is a technique used for troubleshooting by several
companies to communicate with the downhole tool.
A) Sperry Drilling down-linking tool is called the Geo-Span and

allows for two way communication with down-hole tools. This
process takes place while drilling on bottom.
B) Weatherford, Down Link Commander (DLC™) system is used to

communicate commands from surface to downhole tools while
drilling, with on the ‘fly’ programming feature no rig time is used
allowing bi-directional communication.
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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
C) BakerHughes uses Bi-Pass Actuator (ABPA) to down-link multi-

commands and also uses manual down-link to send different
commands by modulating flow by changing rig pump rates.
2.10 Vibrations and Downhole Drilling Mechanics Sensors
MWD tools provide intrinsically in the same D&I (Direction and Inclination
package) collar or connected to different subs the means of monitoring
drilling and formation parameters as drilling progresses. Downhole Weight
on Bit, Torque or Equivalent Circulation Density among other services can
be provided alone or in combination with other LWD services in order to
better understand the drilling environment.
A) Sperry Drilling has DDSr-shock and vibration sensor, DDS2-

Measuring shock and vibration, TEM-Torsional efficiency monitor
measurements for RPM and IVSS for shock and vibration data.
B) Weatherford has the True Vibration Monitor sensor that provides

critical data in both real-time and recorded formats. The tool is
equipped with six accelerometers, orthogonally arranged and two
magnetometers (arranged in two axes) to provide high resolution
vibration and shock data in both high and low vibration environments.
The magnetometers provide downhole RPM of the collar. The
enhanced data gathering capabilities of this tool allow for the real-time
identification of drillstring vibration so that the proper corrective
actions can be made in a timely manner. The HEL™ MWD System –
True Vibration Monitor (TVM™) Sensor Can be used in any formation
and with any combination of Weatherford LWD/MWD tools. The
TVM™ alerts the driller that changes are needed in drilling
parameters to stop harmful vibration. Vibration data from the TVM™ is
used to adjust maintenance schedules based on cumulative shock
and vibration.
C) BakerHughes uses CoPilot (CoP) to record downhole parameters

such as WOB, Torque, ECD and Vibrations.
2.11 New Technology
Since the LWD technology made its debut in the late 1980s, several
advantages were touted, such as the potential elimination of wireline logs and
27 of 33

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
faster information flow from the reservoir up to the surface. Today modern
LWD logs rival their wireline counterparts in most categories. New tools
measure nearly every formation parameter with comparable precision.
Telemetry bandwidth has been boosted and downhole processing has
increased the amount of information available in real time.
Some emerging technologies such the Schlumberger NeoScope sourceless

formation evaluation-while drilling and the MicroScope resistivity and imaging
while drilling are capable of providing formation evaluation for various
targeted applications without the need to use radioactive sources.
2.11.1 Drop in MWD-Gamma Ray on memory tool
There is the possibility to use drop-in Gamma Ray, which is a natural

gamma ray reader, before pulling the drillstring out of the hole. This will
provide gamma readings, once the tool is recovered at surface. One of the
providers under consideration to test this technology in Saudi ARAMCO is
APS Technology.
28 of 33

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
2.12 LWD services names cross-reference and acronyms summary table.

Schlumberger Baker Hughes Sperry Halliburton Weatherford Precision
Acronym Tool name Acronym Tool name Acronym Tool name Acronym Tool name
arcVISION Collar Mounted Propagation GR Gamma Ray DGR Dual Gamma Ray IDS Integrated
Resistivity Gama ray- Directional Sonde
APWD*(annular Pressure while
drilling), multidepth dual-frequency
resistivity, Phase caliper
geoVISION Collar Mounted Laterolog MPR OnTrak ABG At Bit Gamma & HAGR High Temp
Resistivity and imaging Azimuthal Gamma Image Azimuthal
gamma ray-Ring resistivity, Gamma Ray
resistivity at the Bit
mcrVISION Wireline Retrievable/Reseatable ORD LithoTrak EWR Electromagnetic SAGR Spectral
Propagation resistivity Wave Resistivity Azimuthal
adnVISION Collar Mounted Porosity Azimuthal CCN LithoTrak AFR Azimuthal MFR G R
Multi-Frequency
density, Neutron Porosity, Focused Resistivity
downhole RPM, 3D density caliper Resistivity
proVISION/proVISION Collar Mounted-Sourceless SDN LithoTrak ADR Azimuthal Deep MFR+ Deep Multi-
plus Porosity and Permeability Resistivity Frequency
Permeability, Pore size, Fluid ID Resistivity
sonicVISION Collar Mounted Acoustic Sonic SDTK SoundTrak SLD Stabilized Litho AZD Azimuthal
Porosity, Synthetic seismogram, Density Density
Hydrocarbon ID
seismicVISION Collar Mounted Acoustic Bit on MTK MagTrak ALD Azimuthal Litho TNP Thermal Neutron
seismic, bottom of salt ID, Pore Density Porosity
Pressure zone confinement
VPWD Collar Mounted Telemetry and BCPM I BCPM I CTN Compensated SST Shokwave Sonic
Surveying Systems APWD, Thermal Neutron Tool)
ATWD*,IPWD***
StethoScope/VPWD Formation Pressure, BCPM II BCPM II BAT BiModal Acoustic BAP Bore Annular
APWD*/VPWD Verified Pressure Tool Pressure
While Drilling Service, ECD
(Equivalent circulation density) and
ESD (Equivalent static density).
TeleScope Power, Telemetry and ZoneTrak Bit Resistivity QBAT Multipole Acoustic TVM True Vibration
Combinability Tool Monitor
EcoScope Multifunction Formation GeoTap Geo Tap RAT Rapid Annular
Evaluation, Azimuthal Temperature
Density/PEF/GR, Neutron
Pososity, Ultrasonic Caliper,
downhole Shocks, downhole RPM,
Elemental Capture Spectroscopy,
Formation Sigma, APWD*,
Inclination close to the Bit, Density,
Gamma Ray and Caliper images
PathFinder Density Imaging density neutron standoff MRIL Magnetic
Imaging caliper tool provides a bulk density Resonance
image, along with conventional Imaging Logging
bulk density, neutron porosity, and
photoelectric index (PE) logs.
PWD Pressure While

*APWD (annular Pressure while drilling) Drilling
**ATWD (annular Temperature while drilling)
***IPWD (Internal Pressure while drilling)
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3.0 The Saudi ARAMCO Geosteering Center
Saudi ARAMCO Geosteering Operations Center
The Geosteering Operations Center (GOC), a division under Reservoir

Characterization Department, is located in Saudi ARAMCO Dhahran
headquarters, hundreds of kilometers away from the wells it monitors in the oil
and gas fields, both onshore and offshore (Fig.1). Recently, the role of GOC has
been expanded to include abetting the Exploration Department to drill
development wells as far away as the Red Sea.
Fig. 1. Saudi ARAMCO Fields
Saudi ARAMCO utilizes many new technologies depending on the individual

needs of the wells and the complexity of the reservoirs. Almost all the new
technologies are used in the wells monitored by GOC geologists. This is the one
place in the world where one would have the constant opportunity to be looking at
log responses from tools of different service companies in the world such as
Halliburton Sperry Sun Drilling, Schlumberger, Pathfinder, Precision Drilling and
Baker Hughes Inteq. These geosteering geologists are equipped with the latest
30 of 33

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
technologies currently available in the market including Pressure Tester, Deep

resistivity tools, imaging tools, and 2D & 3D geological-structural modeling
software for some wells. And each of the geosteerers has routinely handled
between three to four wells but sometimes more in various drilling stages.
Fig. 2. Saudi ARAMCO Geosteering Operations Center (GOC) in Dhahran
Saudi ARAMCO assembles teams of geologists to man the operations center on a

24/7 basis (Fig.2). In any one day three shifts are working while one is on off
days. Field geologists, reservoir engineers, drilling engineers and support
engineers are accessible to these geosteering geologists on a 24 hour
basis. Real time data is continuously transmitted from the rig sites via satellite
into the Saudi ARAMCO Computing Center that feeds the center. At the center,
the geosteering geologists are equipped with 12 computer stations that can easily
manage 50 oil or gas wells in different phases of drilling. There are two other
centers equipped with the same amount of workstations situated in other locations
within Saudi ARAMCO that serve as back-up centers.
Ever since the set-up of the Geosteering Operations Center (GOC) at its
headquarters in Dhahran, Saudi ARAMCO has drilled on average of more than
2.5 million footage of the section geo-steered per year continuously from 2006 to
2009. There have been varieties of reasons for geosteering the wells and those
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reasons are evaluated on a field-by-field and on a well-to-well basis. The

presence of GOC is growing in importance in which now GOC is on trial in
abetting the drilling of exploratory wells and setting casing at shallow depths.
Geosteering Processes
Geosteering Processes:
Workflow
Satellite
Data Links
Geosteering
Operation
Rigsite Center
Subsurface Updated 3D
Reservoir Geological Model
Target
Fig. 3. Saudi ARAMCO Geosteering Workflow Processes
The workflow of geosteering covers the pre-drilling to post-drilling aspects of an oil

/ gas well (Fig. 3). Pre-drilling phase involves establishing geological models and
engineering objectives in consideration for well placement. While in the drilling
phase, it concentrates on fulfilling the planned well objective despite various
drilling and geological problems. The post drilling phase involves refining the
geological and engineering models to be used in planning and reevaluating the
next well locations. The reservoir management and field geologists would decide
and determine the well planning and objectives. After the drilling engineer
provided a plan, it will be approved by the field geologist.
The geosteering geologist is the focal point for everyone in the reservoir
development team. Initially, the geosteering geologists are equipped with the
latest structural maps and cross sections by the field geologists. To ensure
continuous access to communication lines between all parties, various channels
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are utilized including the Real Time Display chat channels, telephone lines, and
satellite phones to the rig. The primary communication channel between GOC to
the rigs is the chat channel of the Real Time log display. The VSAT auto-update
of the data is continuously being fed into the ARAMCO Computing System via
satellites at an interval of a specific time.
33 of 33

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SAUDI ARAMCO WORKOVER MANUAL

Drilling Technical Department September 2013

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

LOGGING WHILE DRILLING

2.1 Gamma ray

2.4 Neutron Porosity.

2.8 Formation Tester

2.9 Telemetry Systems

2.10 Vibrations/Down hole Drilling Mechanics sensors

3.0 The Saudi ARAMCO Geosteering Center

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

LOGGING WHILE DRILLING

1.1 Schlumberger*, BakerHughes INTEQ, Sperry-Halliburton, Weatherford-

2.0 Logging While Drilling Logs

Measurement While Drilling (MWD) is generally taken to refer to simpler drilling-

Services offered by LWD companies include Gamma Ray, Porosity, Permeability

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.1 Gamma Ray logs

A) Improve drilling efficiencies in conventional, horizontal, re-entry and

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

Service Company Names

9½ HDS-1 22 to 16 302 25000 8 15 Flow Rate:

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.1.1 Gamma Ray Image

A Gamma Ray Image is a “map” of the gamma ray response of the

A) To pick Formation features such as dips

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.1.1 Gamma-ray Image

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.2 Resistivity logs

A) Determine Bed Thickness

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

Multi-Frequency 8'' MFR 5.875''- 356 F 30,000 psi 10 16

9 1/2" MFR 356 F 30,000 psi 8 14

2.2.1 Propagation Resistivity

LWD propagation resistivity tools emit radio-frequency

A) Measure Rt and Rxo in invaded formations.

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.2.1 Propagation Resistivity

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.2.2 Resistivity Image

High-Definition LWD electrical imaging services acquire

A) Optimizing wellbore placement (real-time update of 3D-geological

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.2.2 Resistivity Image

Schlumberger Resistivity Image can be provided by geoVISION (Laterolog Resistivity) services

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

2.2.3 Deep Azimuthal Resistivity

Deep reading resistivity measurement capabilities enhance

A) Real time Reservoir Navigation and accurate well placement.

2.2.3 Deep Azimuthal Resistivity

4 ¾ It is application specific and a function Geosteering wells based on resistivity

Deep Azimuthal Resistivity

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

Laterolog resistivity tools measure the resistivity of the formation by

2.3 Density logs

The Azimuthal Density sensors consists of Ci, Cs-137 sources and

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

A) Determination of formation bulk density (ρb)

CHAPTER 5 WIRELINE LOGGING AND EXPLOSIVES

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2.3.1 Density image logs

The density Image principle is similar to the Gamma Ray Image - a