We developed a novel cement evaluation logging tool,named the azimuthally acoustic bond tool（AABT）,which uses a phased-arc array transmitter with azimuthal detection capability.We combined numerical simulations and field tests to verify the AABT tool.The numerical simulation results showed that the radiation direction of the subarray corresponding to the maximum amplitude of the first arrival matches the azimuth of the channeling when it is behind the casing.With larger channeling size in the circumferential direction,the amplitude difference of the casing wave at different azimuths becomes more evident.The test results showed that the AABT can accurately locate the casing collars and evaluate the cement bond quality with azimuthal resolution at the casing-cement interface,and can visualize the size,depth,and azimuth of channeling.In the case of good casingcement bonding,the AABT can further evaluate the cement bond quality at the cementformation interface with azimuthal resolution by using the amplitude map and the velocity of the formation wave.
Better well logging techniques for geologic investigations are urgently needed to identify and evaluate complex reservoirs.We describe a new type of 3D transmitter station with corresponding circuits and bodies.They can be used in a promising new technique of acoustic reflection well logging,that features better azimuthal detection capabilities,as well as better investigation depth.The transmitter stations consist of three-level subarrays that can radiate acoustic energy in any required azimuth of 3D space by circularly exciting various combinations at different levels.We tested the 3D acoustic transmitter stations and obtained laboratory directivity measurements with the3 D acoustic transmitter stations for the first time.The results show that the 3-d B beam width in the horizontal plane ranges from 59° to 67° as a result of phase-delayed excitation.The main beam is steered in the vertical plane at a deflection angle that ranges from 0° to 16° when the delay time of the excitation pulse between each pair of adjacent arc arrays is gradually adjusted.The 3-d B beam width is equal to 11°,whereas the deflection angle in the vertical plane is equal to 14°.Each of the four third-level subarrays in the same circumferential direction display consistent horizontal and vertical directivities,thus satisfying the requirements of azimuthal acoustic reflection logging.
Xiao-Hua CheWen-Xiao QiaoXiao-Dong JuJun-Qiang LuJin-Ping WuMing Cai
Ultrasonic cement bond logging is a widely used method for evaluating cementing quality. Conventional ultrasonic cement bond logging uses vertical incidence and cannot accurately evaluate lightweight cement bonding. Oblique incidence is a new technology for evaluating cement quality with improved accuracy for lightweight cements. In this study, we simulated models of acoustic impedance of cement and cementing quality using ultrasonic oblique incidence, and we obtained the relation between cementing quality, acoustic impedance of cement, and the acoustic attenuation coeffi cient of the A0-mode and S0-mode Lamb waves. Then, we simulated models of different cement thickness and we obtained the relation between cement thickness and the time difference of the arrival between the A0 and A0′ modes.
