Abstract
The objective of this paper is to discuss and outline the invention of the data while tripping (DWT) device, why it was developed, the development process, introduction to the market, and proven value for the end user.
A ‘Fail fast’ and ‘Test to Failure’ approach was taken where 3-D printing, simple prototypes, and components testing was performed before building gradually more sophisticated prototypes, all of which were tested to destruction. Based on learnings, a final test version was built and tested to 60 times the customer's requirements in a controlled environment.
The DWT device was deployed in the fall of 2019 on two offshore rigs in the North Sea for final prototype testing. This gave the basis for refinements leading up to the commercial version of the DWT device, as well as proving the conceptual value of the device; no people required in the red zone while tripping a wired drill pipe string, continuous downhole along string pressure measurements, continuous logging while tripping utilizing bottomhole assembly (BHA) tools, and continuous down hole and along string data input for automated drilling applications. Additionally, considerable time savings were proven.
The concept of being connected to a wired drill string during tripping operations has been on the industry's wish list for years. The lack of this technology has, on many occasions, been a showstopper for selecting wired drill pipe for drilling operations. The introduction of the DWT device has shown to be a success for both proving the value of deploying wired drill pipe (turning the lights on downhole) as well as staying connected to the downhole network while tripping (keeping the lights on downhole) – both systems enabling data flow without mud flow.
