Intelligent drill string components capable of transmitting dataat rates up to 2-megabits per second have been developed andsuccessfully tested in commercial drilling applications.This paper details the lessons learned during intelligentdrill string field trials, with focus on the overall networkperformance during drilling operations, physical handling easeand integration of existing down-hole measurement tools intothe network.This is the first publication of information from such fieldtrials, and the first discussion of down-hole tool datatransmission through the intelligent drill string network.The paper includes discussion regarding the potentialimpact of intelligent drill string technology on the drilling andcompletion process.This new technology can improve well productivity,reduce drilling time/costs and enhance well control safety.The paper addresses these issues and provides a forwardlookingview regarding large-scale introduction of the systemand the anticipated time-line for commercial availability.The intelligent drill string system incorporates a highspeeddata cable protected in a high-pressure conduit that runsthe length of each joint. The cable terminates at inductive coilsthat are installed in grooves machined in the secondary torqueshoulders of double-shoulder connections at each end of thejoints.The system’s design supports high-speed, high-volume,bi-directional data transmission to and from hundreds ofdiscrete measurement nodes. As a result the system offers anopportunity to capture critical data along the full length of adrill string, not just at the bit, in addition to supporting the useof high-resolution LWD tools and providing instantaneouscontrol of down-hole mechanical devices. The system offersrobust, reliable operation and is virtually transparent tostandard rig procedures.
展开▼
