Drilling in a Better Direction

DDC has the expertise and tools for use in high temperature / high pressure applications, oil-based fluids and underbalanced projects.

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Gamma Logging Module

The gamma module is a high-efficiency natural-radiation detector that transmits an inverted pulse train with a repetition rate proportional to the amount of detected naturally occurring gamma radiation. With this data, geologists can readily identify “markers” or boundaries to help establish targets and recommend course corrections. DDC operates a fully equipped MWD/Gamma repair facility where all service work and testing is done by qualified service technicians. Gamma can be added to the MWD system as a component making the overall length of the MWD/Gamma assembly 34 feet with the second battery pack.

Dynamic sleeve enhances internal component stability for reliable performance in adverse drilling conditions

A flexible dynamic sleeve surrounds and protects the modules scintillation and overall assemblies, absorbing external shock and vibration while maintaining concentric position within the pressure housing. This ensures accuracy and stability, contributing to reliable on-the-job performance.

Vibration minimization platform ensures reliable downhole performance

The photomultiplier tube (PMT) suspension system uses radial springs to support and stabilize the PMT. Minimizing the transfer of vibration to the PMT ensures downhole reliability.

Maximized crystal size enhances sensitivity and improves gamma count accuracy

Exclusive packaging technology enables use of a larger crystal within the same geometric envelop, improving sensitivity to naturally occurring gamma radiation, by 20 percent. Sapphire windows are used to improve tool robustness and transmission properties, improving tool reliability and gamma count accuracy.

Titanium housing improves tool transmission performance and run longevity

The high-strength titanium housing permits tool wall thickness to be reduced promoting lower gamma attenuation while providing a robust housing for optimum tool performance and reliability.

Power boost technology improves transmission strength and run longevity

Specially designed amplifiers, discriminators and high voltage power supplies can be packaged with the detector to provide optimal electrical performance while consuming minimal space. Such components ensure optimum transmission performance and run longevity.

Positive mud pulse telemetry delivers reliable data transmission

Positive mud pulse telemetry data transfer is the most widely used and reliable transmission system in the industry and provides DDC with the level of performance reliability demanded by today's customers. Positive pulse systems have fewer moving parts reducing the risk of tool failure and simplifying system repair and maintenance.

Energy efficiency ensures system life will exceed bit run life

The entire system is designed around a platform for reduced energy consumption. High performance lithium batteries provide over 200 hours of downhole service in temperatures up to 150°C (302°F). At temperatures up to 175°C (347°F) battery life will be reduced slightly to 175 hours. Battery life can be doubled by adding a second battery pack. Energy efficient hardware such as low power components, on demand sensors, down linking capability and operational setup options integrated into the MWD system minimize power consumption and maximize battery life. An electronic flow switch powers down the system when circulation stops and powers up when flow commences, extending battery life.

Surface system designed for intrinsically safe operation

The rig floor display is designed to be intrinsically safe. The color graphics LCD screen is easy to read in normal rig operating conditions providing the directional driller and company man ready access to information needed to make timely decisions. A depth tracking option is available in addition to several screens for numeric and graphical analysis. Communication between the rig mounted transducers, safe area laptop and rig floor display is distributed through a safe area interface. This interface contains the necessary barriers and protection circuitry to ensure intrinsically safe operation of the system.

Operating Specifications

Accuracy:
  Inclination +/- 5.0° to 150°C (302°F)
  Azimuth +/- 10.0° to 175°C (347°F)
Electrical:
  Input voltage 22 - 30Vde
  Input power 250mW typical
  Pulse output line 0 - 5Vdc pulses
  Pulse duration 2 microseconds nominal
Gross Counting Discriminator set at 15KeV
Operational Time: (pulse duration and gamma sensor use dependent)
  Single battery pack 200 hours at 150°C (302°F)
175 hours at 175°C (347°F)
  Dual battery pack 400 hours at 150°C (302°F)
350 hours at 175°C (347°F)
Environmental:
  Shock 1000g, 0.5msec. ½ sine all axis
  Vibration 5 - 20Hz, 1 inch double amplitude
20 - 200 Hz, 30rms, all axis
  Operating temp -20°C (-4°F) to 175°C (347°F)
Dimensions:
  Length 34.05 inches
  Diameter 1.88 inches