D&M Depth TBT

Theory

Depth measurement is vital to drilling and logging operations for multiple reasons. Depth affects whether a
reservoir will be completed, where to drill future wells, and the proximity to near wells during anti-collision.
Manipulating depth without the client’s knowledge and approval is dishonest and illegal and can lead to
safety issues for the current well and future wells drilled nearby. An invalid depth casts doubt on all logging
curves and surveys presented. The only way to maintain a client’s faith in our service is to adhere to a
standard of operation that includes defined calibration techniques, uniform methods of tracking, and robust
recording procedures. The D&M Depth Control Standard defines the rules to follow to deliver accurate depth
to the client. This document describes the steps for us to follow to reach that goal.

Measuring bit and hole depth is a difficult task and is prone to errors. Borehole environment, faulty
equipment, poor calibrations, operator errors, communication errors, and poor understanding of correct
procedures are some of the contributing factors to the problems in depth that D&M faces. Standards of
practice and equipment have been created to minimize these hazards. The D&M standard surface equipment
for depth measurements is the Precision Depth Assembly (PDA), Clamp Line Tensiometer (CLT), and the
Heave Compensator Assembly (HCA). The PDA consists of the Depth Encoder System (DES) and a Depth
Wire Calibrator (DWC). The HCA consists of two Retriever Measurement Sensors (RMS). These sensors work
with the HSPM, IDEAL, and Horizon systems. The surface equipment is used to create an accurate
measurement of block height, hook load, and rig heave against time.

Following each MWD/LWD run, the downhole data, which is recorded as logging data against time, is merged
with the surface data to give a final result of logging data against measured depth.

Term Definition

Measured Measured depth is the length of the borehole as referenced to a zero point known as the
Depth Well Reference Point (WRP). The WRP may be at one of the following locations: kelly
bushing, rotary table, drill floor, top of Braden head (an old term for the top of casing), top
of casing, and ground level. From this zero point, the depth is measured along the
borehole to total depth.

It is important to realize that no current depth measuring technique can give the absolute value for hole
depth. There are too many factors that affect the measuring system that cannot be quantified perfectly. The
intention is to minimize errors and provide the customer the best depth measurement possible.

Wireline services, when operated properly, will provide a depth that is much more accurate than MWD/LWD
depth. Wireline depth is corrected for some of the effects that will distort it, while MWD/LWD depth is always
referenced to the driller's depth regardless of the effects of the temperature, stretch, and the many other
parameters that increase or decrease the depth.

Term Definition

Wireline Wireline depth is based on the amount of cable going in the hole, corrected for many of the
Depth factors that can affect the accuracy. Wireline depth is corrected for stretch of the cable by
measuring the tension, rig up errors by comparing the rig up length at surface and at total
depth, and wheel slippage in the Integrated Depth dual measuring Wheel device (IDW) is
detected and automatically compensated for by the surface acquisition system. The wireline
crew can rig up a compensator system to account for depth changes caused by a floating
rig's heave compensator. Other physical effects on the cable in the borehole, including
changes in length due to temperature and other hole conditions, are not corrected for and
thus these are accepted as errors in the absolute depth measurement made.
D&M uses the driller's depth as reference for MWD/LWD depths.

Term Definition

Driller's D&M depth measurement is based on the drill pipe. The drill crew measures each joint of
Depth drill pipe, collar, and sub on the deck before running them in the hole. Typically, this is done
with a steel tape while the pipe and collars are laying on the catwalk, prior to picking up and
placing in the derrick or in the hole. The driller keeps the tally of these individual depths, and
the sum of the lengths in the hole gives the depth at any time.

A brief inspection of the driller's depth system shows the many problems that are inherent. The pipe is
laying down in ambient temperature and pressure when strapped. When it is in the hole it is typically
vertical, usually at a much hotter temperature, under tension or compression and under pressure from the
drilling fluid. The steel tape used to measure the pipe could be read wrong by the rig hand, or may not be
laid straight during the measuring of the pipe. The person measuring the pipe writes the length in a tally
book where they could make an error. The number is transferred to the official tally in the driller's shack,
where the number could be rewritten incorrectly. These are only some of the potential factors that could
cause inaccuracies in depth.

Taking a survey along the borehole supplies the three pieces of information to convert the measured depth
to the True Vertical Depth (TVD).

Term Definition

True A survey consists of a measured depth, an inclination, and an azimuth. Using a

Vertical mathematical model, the vertical displacement from the WRP to the survey station can be
Depth calculated, and the vertical displacement can be interpolated for all distances along the
borehole, and extrapolated forward from the last survey to the bit. This vertical
displacement is the TVD, and the accuracy of it depends on the mathematical model used
and the accuracy of each of the three components of the survey.

Knowing the TVD becomes very important when several wells are involved. Accurate knowledge of the TVD
of a formation intersected by two wells helps determine the hydraulic continuity and volume of that
formation, as well as location relative to one another. Knowing the TVD of the top and bottom of a formation
will show the True Vertical Thickness (TVT) of the formation.

Term Definition

True The difference in the top and bottom TVD of a formation gives the TVT. The TVT is
Vertical important in calculating the value of a reservoir. Due to the importance of accuracy in
Thickness this measurement, the D&M Depth Control Standard instructs us not to make any depth
shifts when a LWD sensor is in a zone of interest. Shifting depth when in a reservoir
would alter the TVT of the reservoir, changing the calculated value of the reservoir. The
only exception to the rule would be if the well were nominally horizontal, and all LWD
sensors were inside the zone of interest, it could be possible to alter the depth and not
affect the TVT. This case is discussed in depth in Chapter 10: Troubleshooting.

If the measured depth of the survey is wrong, then this introduces an error to the TVD and horizontal
displacement as seen in Figure 6-1.
Figure 6-1: Measured Depth Error Example.

This survey depth error will then have a growing effect on the TVD and displacement calculation for every
point beyond that survey, capably causing a well-to-well collision or the missing of a target. Refer to Figure
6-2 to see how the depth error at one survey station continues for the rest of the borehole, moving the
location of every point of the borehole afterwards in either two or three dimensions. In this case, there was
a random error that caused one incorrect depth measurement between two correct measurements.

Figure 6-2: Survey Depth Error Continues to have Effect.

Systematic errors also exist that can distort each depth measurement. An example of a systematic error
would be if the air gap (mean sea level to rig floor on an offshore rig) reference were incorrect. All depth
measurements made from the rig floor would be off by that error.

Weight measurements are an integral part of the depth recording process. The acquisition software makes
use of the hookload weight as a threshold for turning the increment of depth on and off.

Term Definition

Hook Measuring the weight on the hook refers to the weight carried by the drill line in supporting the
Load traveling block. An accurate hookload measurement is vital to accurate depth tracking, although
the measurements appear at first glance to be unrelated. The acquisition software uses the
hookload to determine when the movement of the block position is moving the drillstring, or
when the drillstring is in slips and the movement of the traveling block does not alter the
drillstring. The field engineer sets an in-slips transition point and an out-of-slips transition point
as the threshold to determine whether the block is supporting the weight of the drillstring.

This introduction to the theory and purpose of measuring depth defined some important terms we will be
using in this TBT. Refer to the glossary for explanations of more terms encountered throughout the TBT.
Equipment Specifications

This section addresses the operation of the surface equipment used in tracking depth. This TBT will cover
current D&M standard surface sensors that affect depth control. The software applications used in ordinary
depth tracking will be included, and those applications used to correct errors and to manipulate depth will be
covered in Chapter 10: Troubleshooting. Topics include:

•Description of the sensors

•Specifications and physical limitations of the sensors

•Operation of the sensors

•Maintenance of the sensors

•Software applications used during regular depth tracking operations including: Acquisition
Configuration Panel, Depth Control Panel, and the Depth Initialization Panel.

7.1
Surface Sensors

Required sensors for each rig type are listed in Table 7-1.

Table 7-1: Required Sensors

Rig Type Required Sensors Optional Sensor
Configuration

Land rig CLT and DES CLT and Geolograph

Non-floating offshore rig CLT and DES CLT and Geolograph
Floating rig with MCE and heave compensator above CLT and DES and two RMS CLT and RMS and
the crown sensors Geolograph
Floating rig with MCE and active draw works that CLT and Geolograph and
No other option
compensate for heave RMS

7.1.1
Clamp-Line Tensiometer

The current CLT sensor is CLT-DA, part number S-263170, and is the focus in this section, although previous
models still exist in the field. The differences between models is explained prior to covering the theory,
calibration and upkeep of the sensors.

CLT-CA (S-275212) and CLT-CB are the early versions of the hookload sensors, and for various reasons are
not as popular as the later model CLT-DA. The benefits relative to each other are:

•The load cell of the CLT-CA is failure prone. It can be replaced in the field, but this then
invalidates the IS certification and the calibration.

•Shop calibration of the CLT-CA is not possible without specialized machinery, generally
requiring that the CLT be returned to SPC.
 •The CLT-CB is a modified CLT-CA with a Martin-Decker® (M-D) loadcell. The M-D loadcell
is surge/lightening protected, and combines the loadcell and the electronics into one unit
for better protection and sealing from moisture.

•The CLT-DA is a much simpler construction so it is lighter and more robust, failing less
frequently than the CA and CB models.

•The CLT-DA has surge/lightening protection and has improved moisture sealing due to
welded seams.

Figure 7-1: CLT-CA Clamp-Line Tensiometer.

Figure 7-2: CLT-CB Clamp-Line Tensiometer.

1.What it does:

The CLT monitors hookload by measuring the tension in the deadline. The heavier the
drillstring, the more tension on the deadline. The more tension, the greater the hookload
measurement.

2.How it works:

Tension caused by the weight of the drillstring forces the deadline against the sensor's
load cell. The greater the tension, the greater the pressure on the cell.

Figure 7-3: CLT — How it Works.

3.Where it is located:

The Clamp-Line Tensiometer is installed on the deadline just above the deadline tie-down
anchor.
 Figure 7-4: CLT Location.

4.Specifications:

Sensor type: analog

Power supply: +24 V DC

Signal output; wiring: 4 ma to 20 ma; two wires

Weight: approximately. 35 lbs

Maximum capacity: 60,000 lbs

Overload capacity: 200% of capacity without damage, 300% without failing

Calibration error: +/- 4% of full capacity

Temperature range: -40 degF to 180 degF

Temperature effects: +/- 0.01% of capacity shift per degF.

5.Installation:

a.Unscrew the bolts that connect the front and back pieces.

b.Place the front and back pieces around the deadline 3 ft to 4 ft above the deadline
anchor and away from other sensors.

c.Tighten the bolts.

d.If using a CLT-CB, press in the indicator button.

e.Using a wrench, tighten the installation screw until the deadline is within a
millimeter of the back of the sensor. If using a CLT-CB, the indicator button will pop
out as a warning to stop tightening the bolt.

6.Maintenance:

Check the integrity and condition of the mounting assembly. Replace or repair worn
parts.

Clean and grease threaded parts.

Check that the grease reservoir is full on the CLT-DA. Refill through the grease nipple, as
required.

Ensure that electrical contacts are clean, dry, and free from electrical corrosion.
 Perform a functional check.

Check the CLT-CA lid gasket. This gasket must be the cork-neoprene blend and must be
in good condition with no contaminants such as RTV.

Check the CLT-CA adhesive-lined shrink tubing at the point that the loadcell mates to the
junction box. This is an adhesive-lined tubing and should have a good bond to both metal
surfaces. If the tubing can be moved with a screwdriver using mild pressure, replace with
adhesive-lined shrink tubing only.
Depth Wire Calibrator (DWC-AC, S-263470)

Inside the DWC box is an encoder attached to an internal spool exactly 3 ft in circumference. Wire, 150 ft
long, is wrapped around the spool.

Tip:
There are problems associated with the DWC-AC that should be kept in mind before using one. There are
not enough channels in the ASAP to leave the DWC installed. A sensor will have to be removed from one of
the channels temporarily during the use of the DWC. The sensor removed should not be the DES. There is
often not enough tension in the wire, causing the calibration to be off if the wind blows during the
calibration, and during the spool in of the cable, the driller must lower the block slowly to allow the cable to
seat properly. Any dirt on the cable will gum up the guide for the wire and stop it from going in the housing.
Any salt that gets on the wire and is not wiped off before going into the box will cause corrosion during
storage. The DWC cannot be fully serviced at the rig. The spool that the wire wraps around is wide, so the
wire is not guided into an orderly row while wrapping as the block comes down.

1.What it does:

Calibrates the DES by measuring the block height.

2.How it works:

The DWC cable runs from the traveling block around the encoder's spool. It operates by a
spring retriever. As the traveling block moves up and down, the DWC cable rotates the
spool. The encoder measures the number of turns of the wheel and gives 100 pulses per
foot of cable travel. The wheel is 3 ft in circumference and makes one complete rotation
each time the traveling block moves 3 ft.

3.Where it is located:

It is placed on the drillfloor, close to the elevators during the calibration process.

4.Specifications:

Sensor type: Digital

Weight: approximately 30 lbs

Maximum capacity: 10 ft per second. If this is exceeded, the cable will wrap chaotically
around the spool like a bird's nest.

Overload capacity: 150 ft of traveling block height. Do not let the DWC get lifted off the
drill floor during calibration.
 Temperature range: -4 degF to 140 degF operating, -40 degF to 167 degF storage.

Sensitivity: +/- 0.01% in traveling block height (0.2 inches for 150 ft).

5.Installation:

a.Place the DWC on the rig floor near to the elevator at the beginning of the
calibration.

b.Attach the end of the DWC cable securely to the top drive while the elevators are as
low to the rig floor as possible.
c.The PSAM was designed to support the DWC (S3 in PSAM is for DWC, same as for
the DES). With the PSAM, one UCS cable could be run directly from the rig floor to
unit for the calibration. For the ASAP, one ASAP can support DWC only if not all
basic sensors (2 x SPT, DES, CLT, 3 x PPS, RTS, RPM) are in use, otherwise two
ASAPs are required. This is mainly due to limited space for safety barriers in ASAP
(maximum of 20 safety barriers). The ASAP does not have an S3 connector. For use
of the DWC with the ASAP, an umbilical, a junction box, and a sensor cable are
needed (only 4-wire calibration is possible). 6-wire calibration needs six wires. In
this case, the DWC needs two pigtails, one for the encoder and one for the push
button taking two ports from the junction box.

d.As the wire is re-entering the housing, wipe it with a clean rag and a lubricant such
as WD-40.

e.Remove DWC after the calibration is complete.

6.Maintenance:

Check the integrity and condition of the DWC. Replace or repair worn parts.

Clean the wire of dirt and salt by wiping it with a clean rag and WD-40, or similar spray
lubricant.

Ensure that the cable has an easy and clear path to follow without getting in a bind.

Clean and grease threaded parts.

Ensure that electrical contacts are clean, dry, and free from electrical corrosion.

Perform a functional check.

Drawworks Encoder Sensor

The current DES sensor is DES-CB, part number S-303813, and is the focus in this section, although
previous models still exist in the field. The differences between models is explained prior to covering the
theory and upkeep of the sensors.

Figure 7-5: DES-CB.

DES-AB (part number: S-260723), DES-AC, and DES-BA (part number: 263413) are the early versions of
depth encoders, and due to the extra moving parts requires extra maintenance and care. The benefits
relative to each other are:

•DES-AC is the same as the DES-AB except it uses encoder part number S-263466, which
is a lower cost and has surge protection.

•The DES-AB/AC has space for spare belts in case the first one breaks. A replacement can
be slipped on in place of it without detaching the rotocoupler and disturbing the drilling
operations.

•The DES-AB/AC has a thinner profile than the DES-BA, so it can fit on the end of the
drawworks where space is restricted.

•DES-BA is lighter and has fewer moving parts, so it is expected to break less frequently.

•The body of the DES-BA is rigid and so the shaft is less likely to undergo precession,
which causes premature failure.

•Installation of the DES-BA is simple and does not require adjustment of the belt tension
by the engineer.

Figure 7-6: DES-AB.

Figure 7-7: DES-BA on Bench and DES-BA Installed on Drawworks.

1.What it does:

DES sensors monitor bit depth by measuring the rotation of the drawworks shaft. From
this information, it can determine how much drilling line has been reeled out or in from
the drawworks. From this, IDEAL calculates block position.

2.How it works:

The drawworks encoder is connected to the drawworks shaft. The rotating drawworks
shaft spools out and reels in the fastline to raise and lower the traveling block. The
drawworks encoder measures the number of turns of the drawworks shaft and the
direction in which it is turning.

Inside the sensor housing is a disc that turns on a shaft. The disc has 100 slots and sits
between two light emitters and two detectors. As the shaft and disc rotate, light from
both emitters is blocked or allowed to pass.

In one complete rotation of the encoder's shaft, both detectors count 100 pulses. This
generates two pulse trains. D&M software determines the direction in which the traveling
block is moving by looking at which pulse train is in the lead. When the shaft is turning in
one direction, pulse train A leads pulse train B. When turning in the other direction, pulse
 train B leads pulse train A.

Figure 7-8: Inside DES.

3.Where it is located:

The Drawworks Encoder is connected to the drawworks shaft.

Figure 7-9: DES Location.

4.Specifications:

Type of sensor: Digital

Power supply: +12 V DC

Signal output; wiring: +0.0 V DC or +5.0 V DC; two pulse trains on two wires, separate
common ground return

Weight: Approximately 2 lbs

Loading capacity: Up to 40 lbf on shaft axially, 35 lbf radially

Maximum RPM: 10,000

Temperature range: Operating: -20 degC to 70 degC, non-operating: -40 degC to 90

degC.

Temperature effects: Unknown

5.Installation of the DES-AB:

Consult with the driller before proceeding. Inform the driller of what you want to do, and
make sure that he/she will not need the drawworks in the ten minutes it takes to install
the sensor. Obtain the rig crew's help.

Choose a drawworks shaft that always rotates exactly as the drum rotates. There are
some drawworks that have multiple couplers, with shafts that do not turn directly as the
drum turns.

Mount the split ring pulley (S-257223) on the air hose coupler shaft by these steps:
a.Separate the pulley halves by removing screws (M-033816).

b.Remove the set screws (M-039056) and coat the threads with Vibratite® (M-
068030), then insert one screw, threaded end first into either pulley half.

c.Place the pulley half with the screw thread down over the hex area.

d.Place the other pulley half on the other side and turn the screw (M-033816) about
two turns to start it.

e.Turn the pulley until the other screw is accessible and start that screw with about
two turns.

f.Rotate the pulley until the large set screw in each half is over a hex flat and both set
screws are accessible for tightening.
g.Tighten the shoulder screws and then tighten the set screws to help keep the pulley
stationary on the hex shaft.

After the split-ring pulley has been installed, the rest of the encoder can be installed.

a.Have a member of the rig crew available to help and supervise as you disconnect
the air hose from the rotorseal air coupler. Be careful not to damage the air-coupler
threads.
b.Loop at least two appropriately sized belts over the air coupler, seating one of the
belts teeth onto the split-ring pulley. The extra belts are spares. In case the first
breaks, the rotorseal does not need to be removed to slip the next belt on. Now is a
good time to double-check that the belts are the right length. The next step will be
to replace the rotorseal coupler.

c.Replace the air line to the rotorseal coupler.

Tip:
Wrap at least two layers of Teflon® tape around the threads to ensure a good seal.
Teflon is best applied by pulling it tightly along the direction of the threads so the loose
end faces away from the threads of the joining piece when they first make contact.
Also inspect the O-ring inside the DES to ensure it is seated well and in good condition.
If the sensor is applied with too much torque, the O-ring will break and has been
known to block the air passage through the drawworks shaft, thus disabling the
drawworks.

d.Place the encoder shaft through the shaft coupler inside the Drawworks Mounting
Mechanism's (DMM) moveable-head assembly.

e.Place the encoder pulley on it's shaft and tighten both screws.

f.Mount the encoder on the DMM and secure with four screws. Use Vibratite on the
four screws to help secure them.

g.Bolt the DMM directly to the fixed air coupler.

h.The standard 5 1/2 in mounting bolts (M-014688) work for diameters up to about 3
11/16 in. Maximum diameter is 4 3/4 in, requiring 6 1/2 in bolts. Always use 1/4–
20 grade 5 or better stainless steel bolts with stainless steel flat washers (M-
075125), stainless steel split ring lockwashers (M-075205), with nuts (M-070007),
and Loctite® or Vibratite. Use the flat washers to prevent the lockwashers from
cutting into the aluminum DMM.
i.Coat the mounting bolts with Vibratite or Loctite, then mount the DMM parallel to
the split ring pulley.
 j.Tighten the mounting bolts evenly until the lockwashers are flat, securing the DMM
upper and lower brackets securely.

k.Attach the USC cable and ensure that the cable and encoder are going to be
protected from damage.

l.Tighten the lower swing nut bolt to tension the belt. Tighten the upper swing bolt
wing nut with your fingers as much as possible, and the pivot bolt and nut with a 7
1/16 in wrench.

m.Check that the belt will run straight. Spend the time now to do this correctly or you
will be replacing the belt frequently in the future.
n.Replace the cover on the end of the drawworks shaft, if it had one.

6.Installation of the DES-BA and DES-CB:

Consult with the driller before proceeding. Inform the driller of what you want to do, and
make sure that he/she will not need the drawworks in the ten minutes it takes to install
the sensor. Obtain the rig crew's help.

Hand tools needed to perform the installation and remove the sensor are: one, but
preferably two, of the 1 1/16-in BEI installation wrenches that come with each sensor, (a
7 1/16-in open ended wrench that is thin enough to fit between the DES and the
drawworks can be used in place of the BEI supplied installation wrench) and an
adjustable wrench that can open as wide as 1 1/4-in.

Choose a drawworks shaft that always rotates exactly as the drum rotates. There are
some drawworks that have multiple couplers, with shafts that do not turn directly as the
drum turns.

a.Remove the rotorseal air coupler from the drawworks shaft.

b.Torque the sensor onto the drawworks shaft.

c.Attach the air coupler into the female side of the DES and have the rig crew torque
it on.

Tip:
Put Teflon tape around the threads to ensure a good seal. Inspect the O-ring inside
the DES to be sure it is seated well and in good condition. If the sensor is applied
with too much torque, the O-ring will break and has been known to block the air
passage through the drawworks shaft, thus disabling the drawworks. The
installation wrench (BEI part number 40203) that comes with the DES is very thin
and may need to have a second one taped to it in order to apply enough torque.

Figure 7-10: DES Installed on Drawworks.

7.Maintenance:
 Check the integrity and condition of the mounting assembly. Replace or repair worn
parts.

Check the condition of the O-ring for dryness, cracking, and other damage. Replace if any
damage is seen.

Clean and grease threaded parts.

Ensure that electrical contacts are clean, dry, and free from electrical corrosion.

Perform a functional check.

Retriever Measurement Sensor (RMS-AA , part number:

256363)

The Heave Compensator System (HCA) is made up of two identical Retriever Measurement Sensors (RMS).
One measures the Guideline Tensioner Extension (GTE), the other measures the Motion Compensator
Extension (MCE). Consult the Required Sensors from Rig Type table of the Depth Tracking chapter to
determine how many RMS sensors are required.

1.What it does:

The RMS corrects the bit depth for heave and wave motion on a floating rig. Floating rigs
have specialized equipment called the motion compensator and guideline tensioners.
These keep the drillstring and bit in place relative to the bottom of the hole by cancelling
the effects of heaves and waves. One RMS sensor measures the relative movement of
the motion compensator and the other sensor measures the guideline tensioner
movement, and then these extensions of contractions are used to correct the position of
the bit.

2.How it works:

Each RMS sensor has a 30-ft spring activated cable that can be pulled out and retracted.
The cable movement winds an optical shaft encoder, similar to the DES, which produces
100 quadrature pulses per foot of travel. The sensor is attached securely to the rig and
the cable is pulled out and attached to the moving part of the heave compensator or
guideline tensioner. As the heave compensator or guideline tensioner move to counteract
the rig movement, the cable is pulled out or allowed to retract, which sends the signal
back to the PSAM or ASAP through the UCS cables.

3.Where they are located:

The Motion Compensator is most often located in the derrick between the traveling block
and the top drive and is composed of a hydraulic piston. The driller uses it to maintain a
constant Weight on Bit (WOB). The RMS used to measure the MCE is placed on one end
of the piston, with the cable end attached to the other end of the piston. The guideline
tensioners are located under the derrick, around the moon pool. They are identifiable as
large hydraulic pistons with sheaves on the ends. The guideline tensioners are used to
maintain a constant tension on the riser as the rig moves, to hold the riser in position.
The RMS used to measure the GTE is attached to one end of the piston and the cable end
is attached to the other end of the piston. Refer to the diagram for the typical placement
of the RMS sensors.
 Figure 7-11: RMS Placement.

4.Specifications:

Type of sensor: Digital

Power supply: +12 V DC.

Signal output; wiring: +0.0 V DC or +5.0 V DC; two pulse trains on two wires, separate
common ground return

Weight: Approximately 20 lbs

Maximum capacity: 10 ft per second. If this is exceeded, the cable will wrap chaotically
around the spool like a bird's nest.

Overload capacity: 30 ft of cable can be spooled

Temperature range: Operating: -4 degF to 140 degF, non-operating: -40 degF to 168
degF

Temperature effects: Unknown

Sensitivity: +/- 0.12 in

Accuracy: +/- 0.03% of full scale (0.01 ft per 30 ft extended).

5.Installation:

Potential Severity: major

Potential Loss: personnel
Hazard Category: machinery-equipment-hand.tools

Rig up and rig down of the RMS sensors is hazardous in many ways, as it involves
working at height and near moving machinery. Obtain the driller's permission and help
prior to attempting installation of the RMS sensors. Ensure that the driller locks out the
equipment before beginning any work near the motion compensator or the guideline
tensioners.

a.When attaching either sensor for the GTE or MCE, the first step is to use the rig
crews advice on choosing the safest and easiest place to attach the sensor.

b.Attach the sensor box to a non-rotating part of the sheave. A second method must
be used to tie the sensor off if the first method fails. If C-clamps are used to hold
the sensor body in place, those clamps must be tied off individually to prevent them
falling, in case they come loose.

c.Pull the cable out and attach the loop to a non-rotating component on the other end
of the piston. Consider that the cable can only stretch 30 ft. Do not attach the cable
too far, else when the piston is fully activated it might cause the cable to break.
 d.There must be enough tension on the cable when the piston is fully retracted to pick
up the slack.

e.Attach a UCS cable to the encoder and run the other end to a junction box.

6.Maintenance:

Check the integrity and condition of the RMS. Replace or repair worn parts.

Ensure that the cable has an easy and clear path to follow without getting in a bind.

Clean and grease threaded parts.

Ensure that electrical contacts are clean, dry, and free from electrical corrosion.

Perform a functional check.

The RMS does not need a shop calibration.

Geolograph

The geolograph is used in place of the DES or RMS, depending on which is not available or suitable for the
application.

There are third party manufacturers of good geolographs in Aberdeen, United Kingdom, and in Lafayette,
Louisiana, USA.

In Louisiana, contact: Offshore and Inland Leasing, Inc (O.I.L. Inc), 312 Industrial Parkway, Lafayette, LA,
USA. Phone number: 1-337-233-0724, email: oilinc@bellsouth.net.

In Aberdeen, contact: N. F. Engineering Services, Unit 6, Lewes, Fyvie, Turriff, Aberdeenshire, AB53 8PB,
United Kingdom. Phone number: 44 1651 981401, fax: 44 1651 981894, email: info@nfes.co.uk.

1.What it does:

The geolograph monitors bit depth by measuring how many times the sensor's depth
wheel rotates. It can calculate the position of the traveling block from this information. A
geolograph may be used when the DES encoder does not fit on the drawworks shaft, or
on a floating rig where the rig itself moves relative to the datum and measuring the top
drive movement relative to the rig floor is not enough to accurately know the bit position.
2.How it works:

The geolograph line runs from the traveling block, around the encoder's depth wheel, and
is pulled by an air retriever. As the traveling block moves up and down, the geolograph
line rotates the depth wheel. The encoder measures the number of turns of the depth
wheel and the direction in which it is turning. The wheel is one foot in circumference and
makes one complete rotation each time the traveling block moves one foot. The NF
Engineering Geolograph is a self contained unit, housing the wire retrieval motor inside,
with the retriever motor powered by the air supply from the rig.
 Figure 7-12: NF Engineering Geolograph.

Inside the encoder sensor is a disc that turns on a shaft. The disc has 100 slots and sits
between two light emitters and two detectors. As the shaft and disc rotate, light from
both emitters is blocked or allowed to pass. In one complete rotation of the encoder's
shaft, both detectors count 100 pulses. This generates two pulse trains. D&M software
determines the direction in which the traveling block is moving by looking at which pulse
train is in the lead. When the shaft is turning in one direction, pulse train A leads pulse
train B. When turning in the other direction, pulse train B leads pulse train A.

Figure 7-13: Inside Geolograph Encoder.

3.Where it is located:

The geolograph encoder is typically mounted on a pipe extending from the roof of the
driller's shack or dog house.

Figure 7-14: Geolograph Location.

4.Specifications:

Type of sensor: Digital

Power supply: +12 V DC

Signal output; wiring: +0.0 V DC or +5.0 V DC; two pulse trains on two wires, separate
common ground return

Weight: Approximately 50 lbs for O.I.L. Inc geolograph and approximately 185 lbs for the
NF Engineering geolograph

Maximum capacity: Dependant on the air motor used to retrieve the line. If this is
exceeded, the cable will wrap chaotically around the spool like a bird's nest, or will drape
 loose on the rig floor. It may be necessary to detach the end of the wire from the top
drive during tripping to prevent damage to equipment.

Overload capacity: Up to 120 ft of cable can be spooled

Temperature range: Operating: -4 degF to 140 degF, non-operating: -40 degF to 194
degF

Temperature effects: Unknown.

5.Installation of Geolograph:

The installation of the NF Engineering Geolograph is easy since the unit is self contained.
Place the unit on the top of the driller shack, wrap the wire around the depth wheel, and
attach it to the top drive.

a.Weld a 2-in pipe, at least 1.5 ft long, to the roof of the driller's shack. This pipe will
support the depth wheel and encoder sensor.

Tip:
Align the geolograph so that the cable is not twisted and will not impede the
operation of the guide wheel at the top of the depth line conduit. For the best depth
tracking, the angle between the crown block and the geolograph should be as near
to vertical as possible. Being vertical will correspond to a foot-per-foot comparison
in the movement of the crown with the spooling of the geolograph. To do this, the
geolograph should most likely be placed as close to the front of the driller's shack as
possible. The end of the depth line should be attached to a high place on the top
drive in order to keep the angle of the wire as close to vertical when the top drive is
lower to the rig floor.

b.Mount the encoder to the shaft.

Figure 7-15: DES-CB Installed on Geolograph.

c.Pull the cable out of the geolograph wire spool and wrap it around the depth wheel.

d.If equipped with an idler wheel to hold the line in tension, slacken the idler wheel
assembly by loosening the allen clamp bolt on the bottom of the bracket.

e.Rotate the idler wheel assembly against the depth line to get maximum contact
between the cable and depth wheel without the cable crossing itself.
f.Tighten the allen clamp firmly.

6.Maintenance:

Check the integrity and condition of the mounting assembly and the idler wheel. Replace
or repair worn parts.
 The air supply of each rig will have a different water content, depending on humidity and
upkeep of the air compressor. Check the water filter on the regulator (where air supply
passes through on the geolograph) basis to be sure that it has been removing water from
the air supply and is not full. Check the level in the oil pot of the regulator to be certain
there is enough to keep the machine running well lubricated. The schedule frequency for
checking the oil supply and water removal is determined by the rig and the condition of
the air compressor system.

Note:
The regulator on the geolograph appears similar to the regulator on the IRCT, but is
different in an important way. The IRCT regulator has 2 chambers: one to remove oil and
one to remove the water in the air supply. The geolograph regulator has 2 chambers: one
to remove water and one to add oil to the retriever motor.

Ensure that the cable has an easy and clear path to follow without getting in a bind.

Clean and grease threaded parts.

Ensure that electrical contacts are clean, dry, and free from electrical corrosion.

Perform a functional check.

Software

The following software applications will be covered in this module:

•Acquisition Configuration Panel

•Depth Control Panel

•WITS

•Depth Initialization Panel

•LWD RM File Utility, called Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII Input.

These are used in the day-to-day operations of tracking depth during an MWD or LWD job. The Time Depth
Viewer and some of the LWD RM File Utilities used in troubleshooting and fixing depth errors in recorded
mode are located in Chapter 10: Troubleshooting.

The DTM (Depth Tracking Monitor), an IDEAL application, is mentioned now only for reference purposes. The
DTM application is not recommended for use by the field engineer to track depth. The methods explained in
this module are the only suggested methods. The DTM can leave an inexperienced user confused and
frustrated, and with real-time depth data that does not match the recorded mode depth data. The
application is meant to be interactive between IDEAL and the engineer, and keeps track of the hole depth
and depth resets made while drilling. The output from DTM (the DTM_DRL.ASCII file) is used by the Depth
Shift application to generate a depth data file with depth shifts spread over the stand lengths. The files
created by the DTM application are not important to the field engineer unless they are attempting to use the
DTM application. For reference purposes, a brief description of the six files that can be generated by DTM
follow.

Term Definition

DTM_DRL.ASCII Contains BHA information and data about the stands that have been entered,
including relative time, stand number, and depth values associated with
drilling.

DTM_TRP.ASCII Contains BHA information and data about the stands that were tripped in or
out.

DTM_REM.ASCII Contains BHA information and data from up or down ream passes.

DTM_PRINT.ASCII The output file that is created when the field engineer clicks Print on the DTM
worksheet.

DEPSHF_XX.ASCII This file contains all the depth shifts and the depth of the shift that was
applied to the time file to generate the DEPSHF_XX.CS_DEPTH file. This
depth is the hole depth. To calculate the depth of the offset sensors, the
amount of offset from the bit to sensor is gotten from the BHA, the amount of
time delay is applied, and the depth associated with that time is used as the
bit depth. The amount of shift at that depth is found and all these values are
then used to find the depth that the downhole sensors should be positioned in
that time interval. The first line in this file must be DEPSHF FILE. This text
tells LWD Generate Time Depth processing that it is reading a DTMDS (DTM
depth shift) output file.

DEPSHF_XX.CS_DEPTH This file contains the depth, time, and data channels that have been
generated with the required depth shifts applied to the CS_ITIME data
channels.

7.2.1
Surface Software Introduction

Since the introduction of IDEAL 7.0 and HSPM software, the depth tracking and manipulating controls have
been housed primarily in the HSPM. Although the versions of software bring advances, the concepts remain
consistent with only small changes from past versions and with only small changes proposed for future
versions.

The acquisition software relies on the hookload measurement to trigger whether the bit depth should be
updated. The engineer inputs the limits of the hookload so the acquisition system will know when the
drillstring is in-slips and when it is out-of-slips. If hookload shows in-slips, and the PDA shows traveling
block movement, then the drillpipe is considered stationary and no change is made to the bit or hole depth.
If hookload shows out-of-slips, then a change in the traveling block means the entire drillstring is moving
synchronously with the traveling block. This is also true for a floating rig, but there is an added movement
from the RMS encoder for the GTE and from the RMS encoder for the MCE. Each RMS encoder will either add
or subtract from the bit depth, depending on what they are registering. If the bit depth equals the hole
depth and then increases, the hole depth must then increase too, meaning that the bit has drilled new
footage. This way, the bit depth can only be less than or equal to the hole depth. The data from all the
encoders and the hookload sensor update twenty times a second, and with the speeds that the traveling
block moves, this introduces only very small errors. Consider if the driller moved the block 3,600 ft/hr, that
equates to 1 ft/s. Sampling the block position twenty times per second means there would still be twenty
measurements per foot.

The flow of depth data is:

1.Surface sensors take measurements twenty times per second.

2.Measurements from surface sensors go through the UCS to the ASAP or PSAM.

3.HSPM reads the surface data.

4.The calibration (entered by the engineer and saved in the HSPM) is applied to each
measurement to convert the signal to a meaningful engineering measurement.

5.If acquisition is started on IDEAL, HSPM pushes the measurements to IDEAL where they
are recorded in three files in the well folder:

•CS_ITIME files in 3 second intervals. The CS_ITIME files are named in the
convention of date and time: T-MM-DD-HHMM_1.CS_ITIME.

•Bit depth is updated in Depth.txt every second, in 0.1 ft increment.

•If bit depth exceeds the hole depth, the Drill_1.CS_DEPTH file is updated in 0.5
ft increments.

Software Applications

This section covers the usage of the following depth related software applications in HSPM and IDEAL:

•Acquisition Configuration Panel

•WITS

•Depth Control Panel

•Depth Init Panel

•LWD RM File Utility, called Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII Input.

7.2.2.1
Acquisition Configuration Panel

The Acquisition Configuration Panel opens automatically when the HSPM control panel is started. This
window is the place to configure the HSPM to receive the surface sensor signals from the PSAM, ASAP, or
third party sensors.

Figure 7-16: Acquisition Configuration Panel.

The panel is configured by first selecting the hardware from the hardware drop-down menu. A shortcut will
load the default configuration by choosing Set Default from the Config drop-down menu. Double-click on
the individual sensor names to modify each. Choose the channel number for each sensor according to the
wiring of the PSAM or ASAP. Choose the barrier/isolator for the depth related sensors from the table below.
DWC-Pb refers to the start/stop switch on the DWC, used in 6-wire calibration.

Table 7-2: Sensor Types and Barriers

Sensor Signal Type Input MTL Barriers Stahl Barriers (ASAP) Elcon Barriers
(PSAM) (ASAP)

4 mA to 20
CLT Analog MTL-706 Stahl 9002/13-280-110-00 uZ630+
mA

MTL-764 (S+/S-), Stahl 9001/02-175-200-10, uZ641+,

DES Encoder 0.0 V to 5 V
MTL-767 (V) Stahl 9002/11-120-024-00 uZ664+
RMS (both GTE MTL-764 (S+/S-), Stahl 9001/02-175-200-10, uZ641+,
Encoder 0.0 V to 5 V
and MCE) MTL-767 (V) Stahl 9002/11-120-024-00 uZ664+
MTL-764 (S+/S-), Stahl 9001/02-175-200-10, uZ641+,
DWC Encoder 0.0 V to 5 V
MTL-767 (V) Stahl 9002/11-120-024-00 uZ664+
DWC-Pb (DWC
Digital 0.0 V to 5 V MTL-767 Stahl 9002/11-120-024-00 uZ664+
switch)

After the sensors are correctly configured, save the configuration and click Init. When it changes from
yellow to blue, the Acquisition Configuration Panel is ready and HSPM should be able to receive the surface
sensor data.

WITS and Third-Party Depth Measurements

Sometimes the rig or another service company will be supplying some or all of the depth measurements in
real-time using a network connection. This is not preferred, as D&M has standard procedures and sensors
that allow us strict control over depth measurements and without them we are dependent on whoever is
supplying the measurements. Assuming that the rig crew or other service company does not keep a tight
tolerance on their depth racking, it will be important for the LWD crew to have good communication with the
driller and data supplier at all times. Setting up to receive the measurements from a source other than a
sensor is very similar to the set up to receive sensor data. IDEAL and HSPM can be configured to receive the
following important depth measurements by network connection: hole depth, bit depth, block position, total
hookload, average hookload, surface weight on bit, slips status, rig position, drillpipe stand length, number
of joints per stand, tide, and heave of the rig. HSPM Acquisition configuration panel supports the data to be
transferred from the following data sources: WITS, WITSML, Profibus® , HiTec Profibus® , PASON-WITS® ,
and CoilCat® , in addition to the PSAM and ASAP.

The following steps set up HSPM to receive depth measurements data over a network connection. In the
instructions, the word hardware is being substituted for the name of the data supplier, referring only to the
type of data transmission.

1.Close any WITS server windows that are currently open and then open the Acquisition
Configuration Panel on the HSPM control panel.
2.From the tool bar, select the Config menu, Set Default, then select the most appropriate
 one.

Figure 7-17: Selecting Data Source.

3.Sometimes, there is a need to modify the predefined hardware record definition file. For
example, to change the unit or add a new variable. The Acquisition Configuration Panel
provides an interface to view and change the hardware receiving unit.

4.Double-click the hardware type on the left pane to add it to the right pane, allowing a
choice of measurements. The measurements will be grayed out if there is no check in the
box to the left of them.

Figure 7-18: Editing Data Source.

5.Click the checkbox on the left of a desired measurement, to enable it.

Figure 7-19: Selecting Measurements.

6.Double-click on the measurement to be configured. The Changing Configuration window

will display.

Figure 7-20: Changing Configuration Window.

Note:
You have the option to disable bit depth and hole depth from being imported from 3rd
party. If you get block position and hookload, you can track depth as though there were
D&M sensors rigged up.

7.On the Changing Configuration window, select a different unit type (i.e., feet, meters,
pounds, ...) from the list. Click Apply to change the unit in the WITS record definition file.

8.After all configuration of the measurement is done, click the yellow Init button to change
it to blue, thus enabling all the measurements to be used by IDEAL.

Figure 7-21: Acquisition Configuration Panel.

Depth Control Panel

The Depth Control Panel contains push buttons for entering data and linking into other windows. It is one of
the important windows in HSPM to monitor while drilling, as it has a lot of information about drilling activity
and parameters. There are two types of text fields: display-only and editable. The display-only text fields
have a gray background and are only used for displaying real-time data. The editable text fields have a
white background and can be edited by clicking on the button next to them.

Figure 7-22: Depth Control Panel.

A description of the fields in the Depth Control Panel follows.

•Rig mode: This is a drop-down menu of the different modes the drilling activity can be in.
It includes:

–Idle: Bit depth is not tracked.

–Drilling: Bit depth is tracked and the Depth.txt, CS_ITIME files and the
Drill_1.CS_DEPTH file are updated.
–Ream up: Bit depth is tracked and the Depth.txt, CS_ITIME files and the
REAM_#.CS_DEPTH file are updated. A new Ream file is created each time this
button is set.

–Ream down: Bit depth is tracked and the Depth.txt, CS_ITIME files and the
REAM_#.CS_DEPTH file are updated. A new Ream file is created each time this
button is set.

–Trip in: Bit depth is tracked and the Depth.txt, CS_ITIME files and the
TR_IN_#.CS_DEPTH file are updated. A new Trip file is created each time this
 button is set.

–Trip out: Bit depth is tracked and the Depth.txt, CS_ITIME files and the
TR_OUT_#.CS_DEPTH file are updated. A new Trip file is created each time this
button is set.

•Hookload: Used to display the current value of the Hookload. Display only.

•Total Hookload: Used to display the value of the current total hookload, and is modifiable
by the engineer. This is updated as a length of pipe or stand is added or taken from the
drillstring. The amount added or subtracted is based on the length added or taken,
multiplied by the hookload increment. The hookload increment is a value input by the
engineer in the Depth Initialization Panel (covered later in this chapter).

•Surface Weight on Bit: This is the numerical difference between the total hookload and
the hookload. If negative, this might represent overpull. The button beside this field
allows the value to be zeroed by automatically making the total hookload equal to the
hookload.

•Block Position: This is the current height above the rig floor of the block. It can be
corrected to the measured height above the rig floor by clicking the button beside the
field.

•Kelly Down: This is the height remaining for the block to reach the kelly bushing. Display
only.

•Pipe Length: This is the length of the current joint or stand as calculated by the distance
the block traveled when between in-slips and out-of-slips.

Tip:
The pipe length is a handy indication of the condition of the depth tracking. If this length
matches the tally, your depth will most likely be correct at the next tool joint.

•Rig Position: This value is invalid for a fixed rig. If the rig type is Floating, this value
represents the movement of the rig due to heave and tide. The rig heave can be changed
by clicking the button beside the value.

•ROP: Displays the rate of penetration calculated as the drilling speed as the time to drill
the last foot.

•Current Depth: When the rig mode is Trip In, Trip Out, Ream Up, or Ream Down, it
represents the highest or lowest depth achieved in the depth.

•Bit Depth: Represents the measured depth of the bit. This value can be changed by
clicking the button beside the field.

•Hole Depth: Represents the largest measured depth the bit depth achieved while drilling.
This is the measured depth of the well. This value can be corrected by clicking the button
beside the field. To perform a depth adjustment, use the + or – and the bit depth will be
corrected by the same amount.

•The Rig Gauge: The rig gauge displays whether the drillpipe is in-slips or out-of-slips, and
the relative height of the pipe above the drill floor.

•The Bit Gauge: This bit gauge displays whether the bit is on or off bottom, and whether
the drillpipe is rotating. The button underneath it allows the engineer to place the bit on
bottom, thus making the bit depth equal to the current hole depth.

•Surface Inits: This button starts the Surface Initialization Panel.

•Analog Cal: This button starts the Analog Calibration Panel.

•Drawworks Cal: This button starts the Drawworks Calibration Panel, and will only be
operable if the user has selected the use of the Drawworks Encoder System in the Depth
 Initialization Panel.

•Depth Inits: This button starts the Depth Initialization Panel (covered later in this
chapter).

•Record: This button allows the engineer to record the Depth data in the HSPM. The
engineer has the option of recording the input data for playback, depth output at 2 Hz
rate, and the pipe connection variables. This is not ordinarily done, unless problems are
occurring and the engineer is recording the data for troubleshooting later.

•Exit: This causes the Depth Control Panel to close. It causes unpleasant effects on depth
tracking and should only be done when depth is not being tracked.
•Help: Opens the help folder specific to the Depth Control Panel that provides explanation
of the theory and operation of various applications on the Depth Control Panel, as well as
the logic behind their use.

Depth Initialization Panel

Completing the Depth Initialization Panel is one of the first crucial steps an engineer must perform when
starting an MWD/LWD job. Vital information is kept here that will affect the operation of depth tracking
during the well. Once the fields are filled in, there will be little to change during the course of the well except
for the Drill Time as needed at the beginning of each run, and the Hookload Increment as the mud weight,
drill pipe and inclination change.

Figure 7-23: Depth Initialization Panel for Floater Rig.

The following is a description of the fields in the Depth Initialization Panel.

•Slips Control: The values here control the in-slips and out-of-slips logic. Take care when
entering these, as the computer can wrongly go in-slips and stop depth tracking if
incorrect or during times when drilling with high drag on the BHA, as in a high inclination
hole.

–OSTP: Out-of-Slips Threshold Percentage is the percentage of hookload above which

is considered out-of-slips. To calculate out-of-slips: hookload > OSTP * (High
Hookload – Low Hookload) + Low Hookload. The OSTP is in decimal form in this
equation, but in the OSTP field the engineer should place it as a percentage. The
default is 95%.
–ISTP: In-Slips Threshold Percentage is the percentage under which is considered in-
slips. To calculate in-slips: hookload < ISTP * (High Hookload – Low Hookload) +
Low Hookload. The ISTP is in decimal form in this equation, but in the ISTP field the
engineer should place it as a percentage. The default is 35%. This value will be
overridden by the slips threshold if placed low enough.

–Slips Threshold: The value at which hookload values above are considered to be
out-of-slips and below are considered to be in-slips.
–Slips Correction: Default is zero, and should only be changed if there is a systematic
difference in the bit depth at each connection. The number placed in this field will be
added (subtracted if a negative number is used) to the bit depth each time the
 computer registers an instance of out-of-slips.

–Disable In-Slips if On Bottom: This will prevent the slips logic from enabling slips
when the bit depth equals the hole depth or if On Bottom is on. If the field Off
Bottom Threshold has a value in it, the slips will not be triggered until the difference
between the hole depth and the bit depth is greater than the Off Bottom Threshold.

–Pump Pressure Override for Slips: Enabling this will prevent in-slips if pump
pressure is registered. This is to prevent in-slips in case the driller is actually on
bottom drilling.

•Hookload Control: The values here are an assortment of important inputs required to
track depth.

–Block Weight: The weight of the Block. Ask the driller for this value.

–Kelly Weight: The weight of the kelly. Set to zero if using a Top Drive System.
Otherwise, ask the driller for this value.

–Off Bottom Threshold: The tolerance the bit can be away from the hole depth and
still be considered to be on bottom.

–Hookload Increment: The amount of weight per foot the Total Hookload is increased
or decreased per foot of pipe added or removed at a connection. This is based on
the pipe weight, buoyancy due to mud weight, and hole inclination. To calculate the
value to be placed here, use this equation:
hookload increment = (weight per foot in air) * (buoyancy factor) * cos
(inclination).
The buoyancy factor is = 1 – (mud weight / 65.5) with mud weight measured as
pounds per gallon. The hookload increment must be recalculated and re-entered
each time there is a change in inclination or mud weight.

Hint:
In a horizontal hole, the hookload increment will be zero since the top drive is not
supporting the weight any further.

–Kelly Length: The length of the kelly. Ask the driller for this value, unless on a Top
Drive System where it is zero.

–Drawworks Direction: Can only be a 1.00 or -1.00. Sets the direction the block
moves for the rotation of the drawworks sensor. Change the value of the sign to
reverse the direction.

–Geolograph Direction: Can only be a 1.00 or -1.00. Sets the direction of the
geolograph cable movement for each rotation of the sensor. Change the value of the
sign to reverse the direction.

–High Hookload: An average of the current hookload and a theoretical hookload value
which is based on the bit depth and the hookload increment.
–Mode Change Value: When the rig moves this distance from the last point of
reference, the rig mode automatically switches to tripping in or out. If set to 100 ft,
then once the bit comes off bottom 100 ft, the rig mode will change from Drilling to
trip out. This is best left at default of 999999.0 ft.

•Rig Type and Floater Configurations: Selecting Fixed Rig will disable the Floater
Configurations choices. If on a floating rig, select the Floating Rig and choose the
configuration of depth sensors being used.
•GTE Parts of Line: The number of cables seen on each Guideline Tensioner. If there are
two loops, the parts of line will equal four, since each cable passes over the sheave and
two parts of the same cable are seen. Setting this to zero will disable the RMS sensor
 used to measure the GTE. Setting this to a negative number will change the direction of
the rig position as the piston compresses and releases.

•Drill Time: Set to zero at the beginning of the well. This tracks, in hours, the time spent
with the bit on bottom.

•Default: Sets the default configuration for a fixed rig.

•Exit: Closes the window. All changes are applied and saved the moment they are made.

•Help: Provides a very useful explanation of the buttons and fields on this panel.

LWD RM File Utilities: Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII

Input

There are four important depth related software applications under the RM Utilities on the Top CP. After RM
Utilities is opened, the full name appears: LWD RM File Utilities, referring to the recorded mode functions
that can be performed from here. The utility covered here is: Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII Input.
The utilities Analyze a Time-Depth File, Edit a Time-Depth File, and Filter a Time-Depth File for Heave are
used in case of problems in tracking depth during the run, and so they are covered in Chapter 10:
Troubleshooting.

Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII Input will create a Bin_DB (binary database) file out of the copy of
the Depth.txt file to be used for recorded mode processing. The steps to do this are:

1.Open RM Utilities from Top CP.

2.Click on the words: Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII Input. A box will appear
below this with the word Perform. Click on that box.

Figure 7-24: Depth bin_DB1.

3.The next window that displays asks for the units of the time depth file. Do not edit
anything here. Click Control, then Exit.

Figure 7-25: Depth bin_DB2.

4.The next window allows you to browse to the run folder to select the copy of the
Depth.txt file to use.
 Figure 7-26: Depth bin_DB3.

5.The next window allows you to browse to the run folder to select the copy of the
Depth_shift.txt file to use. If there is none, click Cancel.

Figure 7-27: Depth bin_DB4.

6.This will create the Depth.bin_DB file in the focused run folder. If there are any
warnings saying the file has not been created, there will be a reason stated. Try to repair
the copy of the Depth.txt file at the times listed in the warning messages. Then, the
Depth.txt file must be looked at with the Time Depth Viewer and repaired. Use the
Generate a Time-Depth File from ASCII Input utility to attempt to create the BIN_DB file
again.