Spectraseis Launches New Borehole Tool for LF and Microseismic Surveys

The new 4.4” OD (outside diameter) tool, which features six levels of high-sensitivity active receivers, has been designed for multiple downhole applications, including LF seismic surveys and microseismic monitoring projects. It is designed to be safely deployed and recovered on a tubing string in casing as small as 5.5” OD and in wells with temperatures of up to 160 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius).

Scheduled for delivery in October 2010, the tool has been developed by Spectraseis through the integration of a group of scientists and specialist engineering firms. The first deployment is planned shortly afterwards.

This unique instrument includes the following features:

• - Broadband recording The tool acquires three-component broadband measurements from 0.1 to 1000 Hz, allowing for both low frequency and microseismic applications.

• - High-sensitivity receivers Active geophones capable of recording wavefields to -190 dB are used in a multi-component configuration to fully sample weak, ambient or induced seismic activity.

• - Multi-level array The receiver array has six independent levels to facilitate source localization and directional analysis with adjustable vertical configurations.

• - Deployable in deviated wells A specially-designed gimbaling mechanism allows for accurate measurements in boreholes which are deviated up to 24 degrees.

Rob Habiger, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Spectraseis, commented:

“This new broadband multi-level receiver array is unique in providing a highly sensitive, safe and flexible downhole tool that can be used in a wide range of geophysical applications. Our program for the tool includes measurements in multiple wellbores combined with surface LF data acquisition. I look forward to seeing a number of successful deployments over the coming months.”

The 72nd EAGE Conference & Exhibition with the conference theme ‘A New Spring for Geoscience’ is being held from June 14 to 17 2010. Spectraseis will be presenting six papers at the conference this year, covering a wide technical spectrum ranging from theoretical research to applied case studies. The Spectraseis exhibition stand is at #733.