Measuring Inclination and Azimuth: The Science Behind an MWD Directional Sensor

 

An illustration of M1 unmanned MWD

The MWD directional sensor is just one of the many sensors used in the oil drilling process. It is responsible for transmitting directional information down the drill string and to the surface. This allows the driller to change direction and keep the bit on target. The sensor consists of a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter sends a signal down the drill string while the receiver measures how much of that signal is returned. This gives the driller an indication of how far off course the bit is.

If you're looking for directional drilling completions, reach out to True Shot LLC.

The earth's magnetic fields are constantly in flux, which is why your compass points north. The metal in a traditional compass interacts with the earth's magnetic field and allows you to determine your location based on the needle pointing north. While our modern society has moved away from relying solely on compasses, directional drilling still needs precise measurements of inclination (angle) and azimuth (direction) to stay on track.

MWD directional sensors are an important tool for directional drilling, as they allow drillers to maintain their course in difficult or treacherous terrain. In this blog post, we'll explore the science behind how these sensors work and look at some of the factors that go into measuring inclination and azimuth.

1. Compass

The simplest way to understand how a directional sensor works is by comparing it to a traditional compass. A compass contains a small magnet that reacts with the earth's magnetic field, allowing you to determine your location based on the needle pointing north.

Similarly, a directional sensor contains a small magnet that reacts with the Earth's magnetic field. However, while a compass measures the strength of the magnetic field to determine your location, a directional sensor measures how the magnetic field changes as you move. This allows the sensor to calculate your orientation (inclination and azimuth) relative to the north. The inclination is the angle you are tilted relative to the horizontal, and azimuth is the direction you face (measured in degrees from North).

2. How Directional Sensors Work

To measure how the Earth's magnetic field changes as you move, directional sensors use a fluxgate magnetometer. This device consists of two coils of wire: an excitation coil and a sensing coil. An electrical current is passed through the excitation coil, creating a magnetic field. This magnetic field interacts with the earth's magnetic field, and the sensing coil can then measure the change in this interaction. If you move the sensor, the change in the magnetic field will be detected by the sensing coil.

3. Uses of Directional Sensors

There are many different applications for directional sensors, such as:

  • Navigation: Directional sensors can be used in navigation systems to help determine your location and orientation.
  • Geophysical Surveys: Directional sensors can be used in geophysical surveys and extended-reach surveys to map the earth's subsurface.
  • Mining: Directional sensors can be used in mining to identify ore deposits.
  • Military Applications: Directional sensors can be used in military applications for navigation and target tracking.

An illustration for crude oil well drilling.

This article explored the science behind measuring inclination and azimuth with an MWD directional sensor. By understanding the principles behind these measurements, you can better understand how the MWD tool works and how to use it to its fullest potential. If you would like to learn more about MWD tools, gamma logging, unmanned MWD services, and directional drilling completions, contact us to learn more about our packages and services.

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