SNL
This platform performs acoustic measurements and analyses, allowing flow to be detected throughout the well system
Fluid flow in a downhole system creates a wide range of acoustic energy in the surrounding environment. Such an acoustic field encodes information about the type of stream and its location.
However, borehole systems are not ‘recording studios’. The frequency and intensity of the sound varies from barely noticeable to deafeningly loud. Powerful interference can jam important signals. And even when the acoustic waveform is accurately recorded, the relationship between flow and acoustic characteristics is so complex that it is quite difficult to translate it into reliable flow information by conventional methods.
SNL is not just an appliance or a conventional platform. It provides incredible resolution and accuracy over a wide range of ‘usable’ acoustic energy.
The SNL platform is part of our Flow Analysis system and is used for flow discovery and characterisation as part of our Flow Analysis services. This platform is also part of our Condition Analysis system and is used to assess the tightness (confirmation of no leaks) of well system barriers as part of our Condition Analysis – Tightness Diagnostics services.
SNL architecture
Using an acoustic model of the well system embedded in LogViz, our digital workspace, analysts select diagnostic programmes and adjust well system operation to correctly identify fluid flow patterns.
Patented broadband noise sensing technology, based on multi-channel time domain signal recording with high resolution and ultra-wide actual dynamic range `{`ADR`}`, ensures that every detail of the acoustic signature is accurately captured.
The unique sensor design provides low threshold sensitivity and wide dynamic range.
Ultra-low noise electronic components and circuitry minimise interference, increasing sensitivity and dynamic range.
The Maxim platform’s advanced digital filtering and time-domain signal processing virtually eliminates unwanted interference, providing clean, crisp, high-resolution spectral images.
Model-based processing of data from multiple sensors extracts and classifies the signal source and allows its location to be determined.
In some services, we use artificial intelligence (AI) to recognise certain events in spectra or time signals.
The LogViz platform provides analysts with many tools for detailed data analysis and visualisation.
Analysts then use their expertise to transform spectral signatures into meaningful flow information.
Secure centralised data archiving.
Our services provide meticulous well diagnostics to address the full range of both flow and well system integrity issues.
Our approach
We are convinced that an accurate diagnosis requires not only a measurement with a high degree of certainty, but also a systematic approach. It is undoubtedly essential to use the best sensors and measurements, but it is even more important to use them correctly and then filter, process, model and translate them into actionable answers.
That’s why we take a systematic approach to diagnostics, combining different platforms with their own unique capabilities within a calibrated research programme.
Our engineers and analysts can identify any type of flow in the entire downhole system using SNL’s acoustic platform.
The SNL platform is guided by a logical research programme where each component adds to the overall picture of flow in the downhole system.
Creation history
- 10 years of pioneering research, original solutions and practical experience in the application of spectral diagnostics in thousands of downhole systems worldwide.
- 4 international patents in spectral acoustics and over 60 publications in recognised industry publications.
- Extensive acoustic research, test and calibration facilities, anechoic chamber, hydraulic test rigs, core analyses and test boreholes ensure continuous improvement of acoustic diagnostic systems.
- Specialists in the design of precision, low noise electronic circuits.
- The platform is developed and manufactured exclusively in-house at our technology centre.
- The effectiveness of the platform has been tested and proven in thousands of well systems at more than 70 subsurface users worldwide.
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