The modern practice of geosteering involves interpreting real-time data from the drill bit to make steering adjustments on the fly, a difficult task despite the array of tools available to drillers. Using resistivity tests and gamma rays, geosteering experts define the top and bottom of the oil reserve, then turn to tools like chromalogs and 3-D seismic tools that can be analyzed to make sense of the underground topography. While this can be a simple process in geologically simple areas, complicated structures, faults, and dips can make the job far less simple. But through techniques such as reading gamma ray signatures and relying on the expertise of geophysicists, even complex oil deposits have been extracted.
When horizontal drilling was first deployed in the Austin Chalk, oil industry professionals discovered that steering a drill bit underground armed with only surface maps was extremely difficult. As the practice has become more widespread, a technological solution known as geosteering was invented to make the process easier. Using everything from underground structures to the color of the rock, experts were able to bring the drill bit to the oil successfully.
The modern practice of geosteering involves interpreting real-time data from the drill bit to make steering adjustments on the fly, a difficult task despite the array of tools available to drillers. Using resistivity tests and gamma rays, geosteering experts define the top and bottom of the oil reserve, then turn to tools like chromalogs and 3-D seismic tools that can be analyzed to make sense of the underground topography. While this can be a simple process in geologically simple areas, complicated structures, faults, and dips can make the job far less simple. But through techniques such as reading gamma ray signatures and relying on the expertise of geophysicists, even complex oil deposits have been extracted.
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Sentry Energy ProductionAs the U.S. government and its residents attempt to become less dependent on foreign oil and gas, oil and natural gas exploration and development firm Sentry Energy Production LLC seeks out reserves in the most efficient manner. Archives
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