Garth Naldrett, Silixa Ltd.
Abstract Summary
Over the past 25 years a number of innovative downhole fiber optic sensors have come to market. We have seen the introduction of point sensors, as well as Distributed Temperature Sensing in the 1990s, followed by Distributed Strain and Distributed Acoustic Sensing in the 2000’s. These have resulted in substantial development and improvement in conveyance of fiber optics into wellbores, both as permanently deployed sensors or temporary intervention surveys. Downhole fibers, cables and connections have all improved in their functionality and most importantly reliability and longevity. Developments in subsea hardware has also allowed us to take fiber optic sensing into subsea wells, where these systems fill what has previously been a data void. The ability to now engineer long sections of fiber, accurately controlling the scattering profile along the length, has provided a revolution to both Distributed Acoustic and Strain measurements extending both their range and performance. We will describe the method of engineering the scattering profile and provide a case study from the BP Atlantis field in the Gulf of Mexico describing how engineered fibers will allow permanently installed sensors to acquire both 3D and 4D seismic surveys in multiple subsea wells at significantly lower cost to conventional technologies. Compared to surface acquisition subsea DAS sensing offers the ability to significantly improve the seismic image, especially below complex salt canopies, improving the ability to manage the reservoir over the life of field. We will describe the subsea hardware components, the implications these have for fiber optic monitoring systems, and development underway to extend capabilities.
About the Speaker
Garth joined Silixa in 2015 in the capacity of Chief Product Officer. He has over 20 years’ experience in the Oil and Gas industry, first becoming involved in downhole fiber optic sensing in 1997. Garth holds a BSc in electronic engineering and an MSc in electrical engineering from the University of Cape Town. Prior to joining Silixa Garth was Vice President of Monitoring and Control at Tendeka where he was responsible for electronic and fibre optic monitoring systems, wireless inflow control and software. Garth joined Tendeka through their acquisition of FloQuest, a software and interpretation business he founded in 2006. Before founding FloQuest Garth held various positions within Schlumberger, including product champion for fibre optic and subsea monitoring.