Abstract
Novel distributed signal processing algorithms, energy-efficient medium access control and fault-tolerant routing protocols, self-organizing and self-healing sensor network mechanisms, etc. have contributed immensely to the growth of these technologies. Recent developments like Wireless HART and ISA SP100.11a have provided an exceptional boost to this novel technology. In terms of user’s perspective, significant paradigm shift can be observed from traditional wired technologies to upcoming wireless technologies.
The key market driver for performing this field trial was to reduce the damage to field cabling and well head instrumentation during the removal / reinstallation before and after workover / rig entry. With wireless instrumentation; field cabling will be eliminated, thus making it easy to remove and re-instate field instruments during workover / rig entry activities. Another major benefit for using wireless instrumentation was the turn-around time for re-flowing wells will be much shorter as wireless instrumentation could be re-installed and re-commissioned quicker.
The technology driver identified that would enable the achievement of the above objective was wireless technology.
Other motivations to use wireless instruments in a wellhead environment are as follows:-
Reduced Costs. Through the elimination of cables, wireless technology greatly reduces the CAPEX associated with instrumentation.
Improved Flexibility. Mobile instruments allow devices to be positioned, both temporarily and spatially, as required.
