BJ Services Commercializes TeleCoil Logging System

BJ Services has commercialized its TeleCoil™downhole communication system, successfully gathering accurate depth, temperature and pressure information for several operators in the North Sea. The patent-pending system incorporates a robust, instrumentation package in a customized bottomhole assembly (BHA) that captures and transmits realtime information about critical downhole operating conditions. Information collected during the coiled tubing (CT) operation is used to optimize the job, while verifying depth measurements for crucial
applications such as perforating, setting plugs and certain fluid placement applications.

"TeleCoil technology represents the next evolution for coiled tubing-based production enhancement," said Lance Portman, Product Development Director for Coiled Tubing Research and Engineering, BJ Services. "It builds on years of advances in coiled tubing materials, equipment and software to further enhance field performance by quantifying and verifying downhole predictions. By focusing on downhole conditions, this technology allows us to instantly adjust job parameters to optimize our coiled tubing treatments."

Intrinsically Durable and Versatile

The TeleCoil system conductor is installed inside the CT and is impervious to aggressive fluids such as acids, cement slurries and even sand-laden fluids used for abrasive perforating. A protective jacket provides superior strength to withstand dynamic tension and compression forces encountered during spooling and pumping operations. Additionally, the small-diameter conductor has negligible impact on pumping pressures or the overall weight of the reel.

At surface, the conductor connects to a data acquisition system that processes and charts downhole conditions. The TeleCoil technology package attaches to the BHA with a standard-end connector and uses electric quick connectors, which require only a few minutes of set-up time. The system supports the use of commonly available logging suites and standard ball-activated tools.

Downhole Conditions Monitored at 18,000 ft Subsea

In one of the first applications of the TeleCoil system, BJ Services carried out a perforating operation on behalf of Talisman Energy (UK) Limited in the North Sea. The operation involved depths up to 18,000 ft (5486 m). The operation wasn't without its challenges, with temperature and mechanical issues; however, BJ Services addressed these by carrying out a series of system refinements and upgrades to prevent them from re-occurring. As a result, the TeleCoil system provided real-time depth, pressure and temperature data, making it possible for BJ to achieve accurate depth correlation throughout the operation. BJ supported the operation from its bases in Aberdeen and Great Yarmouth.

"We are extremely pleased with the performance of our TeleCoil system in the harsh North Sea environment," said John Anderson, Region Vice President for Europe and West Africa, BJ Services. "The conditions, including bottomhole temperatures of more than 300°F (149°C), provided valuable experience. TeleCoil technology delivers benefits to those seeking real-time bottomhole data during virtually any type of operation that employs CT. Whether it’s used while performing perforating, stimulation or cleanout operations, the system offers a powerful tool for maximizing efficiency."

In addition to the Talisman project, BJ Services recently used TeleCoil technology in a successful CT-conveyed perforating operation in Liverpool Bay, England. Variations and geographic expansion of the system are under way.