Multiphase simulator increases model definition

Kongsberg Oil & Gas Technologies AS released a new version of the LedaFlow (1.3) multiphase simulator for wells and pipes. The tool can increase model definition through improved accuracy, flexibility, and quality for a greater understanding of the flow in wells and pipelines, according to the company. Developed to help operators overcome challenges associated with deepwater projects and harsh environments, the tool also can assist with longer tiebacks. Additionally, it can lead to more accurate predictions of multiphase flow and more detailed information, according to the company.

The new version of the tool includes standard volume flow rates and emulsion models, a new separator model, and black oil pressure-volume-temperature definitions. It also allows for dead oil circulation using custom fluids and bypass pigging capabilities. According to the company, the new version also is 70% faster due to multi-CPU capabilities. kongsberg.com.

Plate nesting plug-in minimizes production waste

AVEVA has designed the Automated Plate Nesting plug-in module to be used with the company’s Hull Detailed Design software for the engineering of offshore structures and ships. The module can minimize production waste by automatically nesting parts into steel plates, according to the company. By decreasing the scrap ratio in this way, the module can help shipyards save on raw materials by as much as 13%. Additionally, the module’s plate-cutting process can reduce the amount of man-hours required and save time. The tool calculates where parts should be placed on the steel sheet using a set of algorithms to achieve more efficient results. This can help existing nested parts avoid run-ins with newly placed parts. The module requires minimal training, according to the company, and configuration is not necessary, potentially saving time implementing the solution. aveva.com/aveva_automated_plate_nesting.

Data visualization software allows detailed design of geoscience data

The 3.5 by Interactive Network Technologies Inc. is a new digital oilfield product that enables geoscience data visualization through the use of C# libraries. These libraries support specialized seismic, contour, well log, and well schematic displays. Additionally, the tool includes functions like vector object handling, web support, and localization. The tool seeks to increase application consistency and reusability as well as software development speed, the company said in a press release. Users can quickly view large sections of data with the ability to zoom in on datasets. In well schematic displays users can achieve high-performance graphics components through new features like deviated track headers, caliper curve and clipping, and support for the measured depth axis. Additionally, the tool allows users to individually color curve segments and symbols and design graphics on a multiwell basis using hue, saturation, and value color. The seismic display supports 16-million color mode as well as a variable depth step. int.com.

Slimhole high build rate RSS provides dogleg assurance

The Schlumberger slimhole PowerDrive Archer high build rate rotary steerable system (RSS) can be used to drill well profiles previously only possible with motors in one run, according to the company. Able to achieve build rates of up to 18°/30 m (100 ft), the system allows for full directional control. In addition, when working with multilateral wells and 3-D well profiles, the RSS provides dogleg assurance. The RSS can achieve the same wellbore quality and ROP of a fully rotating RSS and has been used to drill 39,624 m (130,000 ft) in unconventional, carbonate, and sand reservoirs. Combining push-and point-the-bit technologies, the PowerDrive Archer RSS has been used in 130 field tests in Europe, Asia, West Africa, the Middle East, and North America, according to the company.

Cimarex Energy used the RSS to drill a 6 1/ 8 -in. horizontal section with a 2-m (7-ft) true vertical depth zone in the Permian basin’s Bone Spring shale formation, according to a recent case study. Faced with high dogleg severity with a 10°/30-m curve in the well design, Cimarex was able to eliminate additional trips downhole using the slimhole high build rate system. Cimarex saved 26 hours of drilling time, according to the case study, due to being able to drill the curve and lateral in one run. slb.com/archer.

Linkable skids allow for easy transportation

HB Rentals has designed linkable skids that measure 2 m by 13 m (8 ft by 42 ft) for temporary use in onshore projects. The buildings’ narrow size allows for easier transportation to drill sites that are challenging to get to in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, according to the company. In addition, permits are not needed to move the buildings, which further saves time and resources. The linked buildings include space for living facilities, laundry facilities, and offices. The company also can provide an additional 2-m by 9-m (30-ft) office for extra space as needed. hbrental.com.

Flow measurement system uses less horsepower

The Torus Wedge Primary Flow Element from Bell Technologies measures differential pressure flow in liquids, gases, and slurries. The tool’s circumferential ramp gradually merges the flowstream into the orifice plate. The stream is then discharged along the downstream ramp, isolating the flowstream from coming into contact with a hard edge and keeping wear to a minimum, according to the company. By allowing for more efficient flow, the tool enables a user to pump downstream using less horsepower. The ramp self-cleans, eliminating grease and oil on the orifice plates and turbine meters. In addition, the bidirectional tool can fit between standard pipe flanges, making it easy to replace, according to the company. The addition of remote seals can provide insulation from the transmitter. When Colorado Engineering Experimental Station Inc. compared 2-in.-, 3-in.-, and 4-in.-versions of the tool with same-size orifice plates, it found that the Torus Wedge allowed the fluid to expend less energy while passing through the measurement device. belltechnologiesllc.com.