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Real-Time Pore Pressure Prediction Ahead of the Bit Using a Suction Pulse Seismic Source--Tempress Technologies, Inc., 19308 68th Avenue South, Kent, WA  98032-1192; 253-872-1982

Dr. Jack Kolle, Principal Investigator

Dr. Jack Kolle, Business Official

DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-00ER83111

Amount:  $100,000

 

Deepwater drilling operations are subject to blowouts because of the difficulty of matching formation gas pressures with mud density.  There is presently no accurate method of predicting pore pressure ahead of the PDC bits that are commonly used for drilling offshore.  An intense source of pulse energy has been developed to enhance drilling rates.  This tool generates a seismic signal that can be used to evaluate pore pressure ahead of the bit while drilling with PDC bits.  The objective of this project is to develop and demonstrate techniques for a real time display of formation properties ahead of the bit; including range to overpressure and mud weight required for pressure control.  Geophones will be placed around a drilling rig while the suction pulse tool is used to drill.  Existing seismic-while-drilling processing techniques will be used to generate a vertical seismic profile of formations ahead of the bit.  The source radiation and coupling will be observed and options for advanced data processing to quantify pore pressure will be evaluated.

 

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:  Pore pressure prediction while drilling will greatly reduce risk of offshore blowouts and the associated human, economic and environmental costs.  Reducing these risks will allow the safe development of vast offshore gas reserves.