Problems Specific To Well-Log

Measurements
Lecture 4
Problems Specific To Well-Log Measurements
• Although we would like logs to be direct measurements of the
formation, log responses are invariably affected by
• the presence of the well-bore,
• Certain near-hole phenomena associated with the drilling of the well,
• the geometry of the logging tool itself.
• Operational problems may be posed by temperature and pressure in
the well.
Problems Specific To Well-Log Measurements
• Borehole effects, invasion
• The effect of tool geometry
• Logging speed
• Hostile environments
Borehole effects, invasion
1. Drilling mud (a) Hole diameter (b) Mud-type and mud-density
2. Invasion
3. Casing and cement
4. Fluid mobility
1. Drilling Mud
The influence of the drilling mud on a log response depends on several
factors:
(a) Hole diameter: The larger the hole, the greater the volume of fluid
around the logging tool, and the stronger its effect on the log reading.
Above a certain hole-size, there may be very little or no signal from the
formation. Welllogging companies always specify a recommended
maximum hole-size, in addition to the minimum size for safe passage of
the tool.
(b) Mud-type and mud-density: Whether or not a certain log can or
should be run depends on the type of drilling mud in the hole.
• For instance, acoustic signals are poorly transmitted in an air-filled
hole;
• Oil or air will not conduct current;
• A salt-saturated mud, because of its high conductivity, will contribute
a large borehole signal to the induction log; (on the other hand, it
improves conduction between electrodes and formation, which is
advantageous for the focussed resistivity devices).
• Mud-salinity affects conductivity, resistivity, hydrogen index
measurements, among others.
• The density of the mud influences the absorption of gamma rays.
• Charts are available to correct for these borehole effects
Invert Emulsion Clay Gel Muds
Polymer Mud