Improving Core Value by Implementing a Combination of Improved and Innovative Coring Methods

Summary The fundamental pre-requisite for core analysis program is a good quality core, which can be challenging in soft formations. By performing a forensic review of previous core CT’s a new coring acquisition program was designed to minimize risk from previously identified challenges. In addition, a unique technology was used which provides downhole coring acquisition parameters (downhole torque, core entry speed into the barrel, inner & outer barrel rotation, jamming indicators), giving the coring operations team access to information that was previously could only be deduced from surface parameters (with many interpretation challenges). The implementation of this unique technology together with a full coring BHA redesign resulted in a 60% increase in coring efficiency and a significant improvement in core quality. This step change in coring performance resulted in a significant reduction in operational costs, increasing the value from the coring operations, and most importantly delivered excellent quality core to be used in the future SCAL program.