Simulation and verification of a slim X-ray density logging tool.
Jilin Fan1, Jiaqi XiangYang2, Qiong Zhang2
1University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China; China National Logging Corporation, China.
Summary
This study redesigned an X-ray density logging tool, achieving performance comparable to or surpassing gamma logging. X-ray logging offers improved formation sensitivity and accuracy, especially in challenging conditions like heavy mudcake.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Petroleum Engineering
- Nuclear Well Logging
Background:
- Advancements in oil and gas exploration necessitate innovative logging tools.
- Controllable X-ray sources offer a new generation of logging technology.
- Existing gamma ray tools can be re-engineered with X-ray sources.
Purpose of the Study:
- To redesign an ultra-slim gamma tool by replacing the gamma source with an X-ray source.
- To investigate the optimal design parameters for an X-ray density logging tool.
- To compare the performance of X-ray density logging with traditional gamma density logging.
Main Methods:
- Simulation of X-ray production at various energies.
- Optimization of detector spacing (110 mm near, 290 mm far) for detection efficiency, sensitivity, and investigation depth.
- X-ray density measurements using multivariable forward and inversion techniques.
- Comparative analysis against gamma density logging data.
Main Results:
- The redesigned X-ray logging tool demonstrates performance on par with or exceeding gamma logging.
- X-ray logging exhibits superior formation sensitivity, vertical resolution, and density measurement accuracy.
- Pe measurement accuracy improved by 47% in heavy mudcake conditions compared to gamma logging.
Conclusions:
- X-ray density logging is a viable and advantageous alternative to gamma logging.
- The optimized X-ray tool design provides enhanced formation evaluation capabilities.
- This research offers valuable insights for future X-ray logging tool development and formation density measurements.
