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A Pressure/Temperature Tool for Geothermal Drilling Applications Based on a High-Temperature Universal Logging Computer--E-Spectrum Technologies, Inc., 12725 Spectrum Drive, San Antonio, TX  78249; 210-696-8848

Mr. Jeffrey Gabelmann, Principal Investigator, jgabelmann@espectech.com

Mr. Robert A. Houston, Business Official, rhouston@espectech.com

DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-00ER82992

Amount:  $697,787

High temperatures in geothermal and deep petroleum wells exceed the maximum operating temperature of conventional electronics.  This makes it expensive to obtain even the most basic downhole measurements and limits the type, quality, and quantity of data that can be obtained.  This paucity of downhole data contributes to poor reservoir management and inefficient extraction of valuable natural resources.   Using newly available high-temperature electronic components, this project will develop a low-cost, high-temperature, reprogrammable Universal Logging Computer.  In Phase I, the Universal Logging Computer (ULC) architecture was completed, indicating that a system is feasible using available Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) component technologies.  Innovative electronic designs were completed and simulated to overcome challenges of operating in high temperature environments up to 250°C.  Preliminary mechanical tool designs were completed by two geothermal service companies, advanced substrate materials were identified and tested, and a unique solderless component interconnect technique was developed.   Phase II will develop low temperature module prototypes; fabricate downhole tool mechanical packages; field test downhole tools incorporating “low” temperature module prototype; develop a high temperature ROM mask for 8051 CPU; develope rugged high temperature packaging for modules; development of high temperature module prototypes; and field downhole tools incorporating high temperature module prototypes.

Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by the awardee: A high-temperature Universal Logging Computer should allow logging companies to easily design their own electronics packages.  This would enable the geothermal and petroleum industries to commercialize loggings tools for a wide variety of applications, leading to more effective reservoir modeling and resource management in high-temperature reservoirs.