Summary:
Although formation pressure-while-drilling (FPWD) tools have been introduced relatively recently, the service is well accepted not only for its application to drilling optimization but also for reservoir characterization,
Especially in developed reservoirs. The next step in the progression of reservoir related services to the drilling environment is clearly the acquisition of formation fluid samples while drilling. The while-drilling environment, however, poses several potential challenges (and opportunities). For example, when should one sample, immediately after drilling the formation when the invasion is shallowest, or after some time when the mud cake is mature?
What is the effect of circulation rate on mud cake integrity? and so on..
The talk will expand on the contents of SPE papers 128249 & 159503 and focus on the challenges associated with this developing technology that will emerge as a significant step change for the oil industry. The following broad
subjects will be covered:
* The drivers and applications for sampling while drilling
* Challenges of testing in the drilling environment
* Overview of the current field test tool
* Field test considerations, results to date
* Current limitations of technology and vision for the future