What are the latest well logging technologies and how can you stay up-to-date?

1 Fiber-optic logging

Fiber-optic logging is a technology that uses optical fibers to transmit and receive light signals along the wellbore. Fiber-optic logging can provide continuous and real-time measurements of temperature, pressure, strain, acoustic, and seismic data. Fiber-optic logging can also enable distributed sensing, which means that the entire fiber can act as a sensor, rather than discrete points. Fiber-optic logging can offer many advantages, such as high resolution, wide bandwidth, low power consumption, and immunity to electromagnetic interference.

2 Nuclear magnetic resonance logging

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging is a technology that uses a strong magnetic field to induce and measure the response of hydrogen nuclei in the formation fluids and rocks. NMR logging can provide information about the porosity, permeability, fluid saturation, viscosity, and wettability of the reservoir. NMR logging can also distinguish between different types of fluids, such as oil, water, and gas. NMR logging can complement conventional logging tools, such as resistivity and density, by providing more insight into the fluid and rock properties.

3 Microseismic logging

Microseismic logging is a technology that uses sensitive geophones or accelerometers to detect and locate the tiny earthquakes that occur during hydraulic fracturing or other stimulation operations. Microseismic logging can help you map the fracture network, evaluate the fracture effectiveness, and optimize the fracture design. Microseismic logging can also help you monitor the reservoir behavior, such as stress changes, fluid flow, and compaction. Microseismic logging can be performed using downhole or surface arrays, or a combination of both.

4 Machine learning and artificial intelligence

Machine learning and artificial intelligence (ML/AI) are technologies that use algorithms and data to learn from patterns and make predictions or decisions. ML/AI can be applied to well logging to enhance the data quality, interpretation, and integration. ML/AI can help you reduce noise, correct errors, fill gaps, and calibrate data from different sources. ML/AI can also help you extract features, identify trends, classify formations, and estimate parameters. ML/AI can also help you integrate data from multiple domains, such as geology, geophysics, petrophysics, and engineering.

5 How to stay up-to-date

To stay up-to-date with the latest well logging technologies, you need to be proactive and curious. There are various sources and methods that can help you learn and update your knowledge and skills. Reading journals, magazines, books, and blogs that cover the latest developments and trends in well logging is a great way to stay informed. You can also attend webinars, workshops, courses, and conferences to gain valuable training and networking opportunities. Joining professional associations, societies, and communities that promote well logging research and practice is another great option. Additionally, following experts, influencers, and thought leaders in well logging on social media, podcasts, and newsletters can provide useful insights. Finally, experimenting with new tools, software, and techniques can help enhance your well logging capabilities and performance.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?