In Saudi Arabian carbonate reservoirs, a major operator sought real-time, high-resolution borehole imaging to improve operational and economic efficiency. Previous LWD imaging tools exhibited limitations at high ROP, including image gaps, degraded resolution, and sensitivity to drilling dynamics—stick-slip, shock, and vibration. These issues resulted in slower ROP, lossy image compression, and loss of critical geological features, impeding both operational efficiency and geological interpretation. To overcome these issues, the operator pursued a novel solution capable of delivering real-time, high-resolution imaging at elevated ROPs.
The operator deployed the MicroScope Ultra service, which delivered real-time, high-resolution borehole imaging at ROPs up to 280 ft/h. Feature-based compression of borehole images (FCBI) enabled lossless real-time image compression and surface transmission, providing high-fidelity images for immediate decision making. Imaging was integrated with NMR and distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) for complete data interpretation and informed completion design. The solution supported 27 valid formation pressure while drilling pretests over a 3,200-ft measured-depth section, enabling advances in facies typing, water-corridor detection, and completion optimization. This new technology sets a precedent for future operations, demonstrating real-time high-definition imaging and multitechnology integration that improves efficiency and subsurface understanding.
