Global energy exploration equipment manufacturer Geospace Technologies recently spun-off technology from its OptoSeis® three-component fiber optical sensing permanent reservoir monitoring solution into a downhole system known as Insight™ by OptoSeis.
Insight leverages the all-optic monitoring subsea and land-based systems originated by PGS and acquired by Geospace. The resulting system features three-component orthogonally arranged, optical downhole shuttles, specializing in multi-level, real-time, continuous, high-definition seismic acquisition.
“Using state of the art technology is the best way to ensure repeatable and reliable information,” said Chief Project Engineer Robbin Adams. “Our company strives to deliver highly ruggedised products to enable the most informed decisions in reservoir characterization.”
Downhole applications have long suffered effectiveness due to limitations in extreme heat tolerance, especially at extended duration. By eliminating electronic components and replacing them with high dynamic range optical accelerometers, Insight operates at temperatures up to 150 degrees C for years with a maximum pressure rating of 20,000 psi. Insight’s fiber optics offer the added advantage of EMI immunity. In contrast to the data received from fiber optic DAS systems, Insight’s linear point sensing truly enables accurate recording of low-amplitude microseismic events.
Insight is ideal for applications such as VSP imaging, microseismicity monitoring, induced seismicity and time-lapse 4-D monitoring, check shots for seismic calibration, and drilling solutions. With increased subsurface information demands of the energy transition, areas such as geologic carbon storage monitoring will require advanced technology to withstand harsh environmental conditions for years.
